In the golden age of motorcycling, few names carried the weight and mystique of Brough Superior. Dubbed the “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles,” the brand was synonymous with luxury, performance, and exclusivity. The SS100, first introduced in 1924, was the crown jewel—a bike so revered that every unit was guaranteed to reach 100 mph, a staggering feat for its time. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the SS100 has been reborn, not as a nostalgic replica, but as a modern masterpiece that honors its heritage while embracing innovation.
🕰️ A Legacy Forged in Speed and Elegance
The original SS100 was a status symbol, ridden by icons like T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) and admired for its bespoke craftsmanship. Each bike was hand-built, tested, and certified for speed. It wasn’t just a motorcycle—it was a statement of taste and daring.
Today’s SS100 continues that tradition. Revived by French designer Thierry Henriette and built in Brough Superior’s workshop in Toulouse, France, the new SS100 is a limited-production machine that blends artisanal craftsmanship with aeronautical-grade engineering.
🧨 Power and Performance: A Modern Heart
Underneath its retro-inspired exterior lies a thoroughly modern engine: a 997cc liquid-cooled V-twin, developed in collaboration with Akira Engineering. It produces nearly 130 horsepower and 88 lb-ft of torque, giving the SS100 the kind of performance that rivals contemporary sport bikes.
The engine is housed in a machined aluminum frame with a titanium subframe, keeping the dry weight to just 186 kg (410 lbs). This lightweight construction, combined with the torquey V-twin, makes the SS100 a thrilling ride—responsive, agile, and surprisingly nimble for a bike that looks like a vintage sculpture.
🛠️ Suspension and Handling: Innovation in Motion
One of the most distinctive features of the SS100 is its Fior double-triangle front fork system, a modern evolution of the girder fork. This setup separates braking forces from steering input, eliminating dive and offering precise control. It’s a design that’s as functional as it is futuristic.
At the rear, a cast aluminum swingarm pivots directly in the engine crankcase, paired with a fully adjustable monoshock. The result is a ride that’s plush yet planted, capable of handling twisty roads and long-distance cruising with equal grace.
🛞 Braking and Wheels: Form Meets Function
Stopping power comes from dual floating front discs with 4-piston calipers, and a single rear disc—all equipped with high-performance pads. The SS100 rides on 18-inch wheels, allowing for a wide variety of tire choices, from road to enduro.
The braking system is tuned for progressive feel and strong bite, giving riders confidence whether they’re navigating city streets or pushing the bike on open highways.
🎨 Design: A Timeless Work of Art
Visually, the SS100 is breathtaking. It retains the classic silhouette of its ancestor, with flowing lines, exposed mechanical components, and a sculpted fuel tank adorned with decorative stripes. The fenders, headlight housing, and body panels are crafted from carbon fiber and aluminum, blending vintage aesthetics with modern materials.
Each bike is hand-built to order, allowing owners to customize finishes, colors, and details. The result is a motorcycle that’s not just rare—it’s personal.
🧠 Technology and Craftsmanship
While the SS100 doesn’t drown in electronics, it features LED lighting, a digital dash, and modern fuel injection. But the real magic lies in its construction. Every part—from the billet-machined components to the hand-stitched leather seat—is crafted with obsessive attention to detail.
This is a motorcycle that celebrates mechanical purity. It’s not about riding modes or touchscreen controls—it’s about the connection between rider and machine.
💰 Exclusivity and Ownership
With a price tag hovering around $55,000, the SS100 is firmly in the realm of dream bikes. Only a limited number are produced each year, and each comes with a certificate of authenticity and performance testing. It’s not just a purchase—it’s an investment in history.
For collectors, enthusiasts, and those who appreciate the finer things in life, the SS100 offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of motorcycling’s aristocracy.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A Legend Reborn
The Brough Superior SS100 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a resurrection. It honors the past while embracing the future, offering a ride that’s as thrilling as it is refined. It’s a bike for those who value craftsmanship, performance, and individuality.
In a world of mass production and digital distractions, the SS100 stands as a beacon of analog excellence. It’s fast, it’s beautiful, and it’s unforgettable.
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