1910 - 1912

Excelsior offered its first two-cylinder model, with a 61 c.i. (1000 cc) engine., in 1910. The two-cylinder Excelsior Auto-Cycle Models F and G were single-speed and had a heavier frame than previous models. The single-cylinder model was discontinued in 1913.

Excelsior gained popularity in its first few years, as motorcycling clubs formed and held competitions. When Excelsior began competing, motorcycle racing was a popular sport. In August of 1911, Excelsior rider Joe Wolters set an unofficial two-mile record, making six laps in 1 minute, 22 2/5-seconds, with a speed of 87.3 MPH. At the same track, in the same month, Wolters set a new one-mile record with a time of 40 1/5-seconds and a speed of 88.9 MPH. In September of 1911, Excelsior rider Jake DeRoiser set an unofficial world record for the kilometer of 94 1/5-MPH. Wolter's and DeRoiser's exploits increased motorcycle's enthusiasts' interest in the Excelsior brand and drew attention from the industry's top competitors.

During 1911, the Schwinn Company entered the motorcycle industry. At first, they drafted plans to build their own motorcycle, but eventually concluded that the impressive quality and durability of the Excelsior would be difficult to beat. They chose to draft an agreement to purchase neighboring Excelsior. Schwinn concluded the purchase on February 1, 1912 for $500,000.

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This history was collected from the 1999 Super X Rider's Handbook, as published by the Excelsior-Henderson Motorcycle Manufacturing Company.