The Final Tests (1916)

The Final Tests - of motorcycles made in Coventry, West Midlands, for the army - 1916. Opens with what is almost a comedy sequence: road with a huge puddle across it in rural area with trees; group of people gathered looking down at the water from a raised stone walkway along the side of the road. Long string of motorcycles come round bend; approaching the water; and drive through the miniature lake. Many different styles; some funny; silly; comic; slapstick; etc. Some stand up on seat to avoid getting wet; others raise legs up and out; some make big splash. Also motorcycle with sidecar. CU side view man working on motorcycle (small; lightweight Triumph). He replaces some small part. Mechanic; tools. Next; shot looking up at steep hill; 2 motorcycles drive up hill. Then; shot of motorcycle factory; brick building with sign ’Triumph Works’ over a wide entry (writing is backwards - film has been transferred the wrong way round - SL); about 20 motorcycles; 2 with sidecars; drive out of this opening.