In 1903, two cousins, Everett and Clinton Cushman, founded the Lincoln (Nebraska), a small company that makes engines for special use and agricultural pumps, lawnmowers, compressors boats. In 1936, they decided to build small engines for motorcycles, and this is how they decide to manufacture their first scooter in 1937, designed as a cheaper alternative to the car, given the economic crisis that prevailed at that time in the United States. Cushman Model 53, had a price of $ 159.50, which was most accessible for the working classes.
the outbreak of World War II, the Army decides to use a smaller vehicle as a liaison between troops and command, mail delivery or sanitary purposes. At that time, the Cushman scooters and enjoy a reputation for reliability in both civil and the military who were entrusted with the task of making a lightweight and Spartan, which can be launched by parachute or transported glider, which is assigned to the newly created airborne troops.
the outbreak of World War II, the Army decides to use a smaller vehicle as a liaison between troops and command, mail delivery or sanitary purposes. At that time, the Cushman scooters and enjoy a reputation for reliability in both civil and the military who were entrusted with the task of making a lightweight and Spartan, which can be launched by parachute or transported glider, which is assigned to the newly created airborne troops.
Cushman, quickly accepted the challenge and present their new Model 53 as amended, made a U-profile iron plate. Huskie is added engine, single cylinder, 4 cycle-tested and 242 cc, 4 hp, resulting in a total weight of 118 kgs. Testing Cushman, reaches 50 m / h, but reduced the final to 45 m / h.
The Army conducted tests parachuting, resulting in the destruction of the first scooter used, since the weight and the parachute was too small.
As a result, decided to lighten the scooter instead of make a larger parachute. However he added, some shocks to the wheels to withstand the impact of landing. 53
The Cushman Airborne Scooter, you are ready to be released and will be in Normandy, his baptism of war, along with 101 troops and 82 Airborne.
The use of these scooters will also be requested by the Navy for naval bases and air forces at aerodromes.
At the end of World War II, Cushman continues to manufacture their models for use of traffic police, post office, milk tricycles and golf carts.
The most famous model was the "Eagle" by 9 hp and 75 m / h, which factory for 16 years.
Cushman Scooters ceased production in 1965 and created the division of marine engines, to manufacture outboards.
Today, Cushman, engaged in small commercial vehicles for airports, stations, companies charge.
Roy Gardner (Screaming Eagles 101 Easy)
0 comments:
Post a Comment