If you thought legends only existed in stories, think again: after six long decades in the shadows, the mythical motorcycle brand Phelon & Moore is roaring back to life, catching the eye—and perhaps even the heart—of Europe’s bike enthusiasts. Grab your helmet: here’s why this comeback is causing a stir that’s anything but subtle.
A Nostalgic Name Returns to the Spotlight
Phelon & Moore. The mere mention of the name might make old-school bikers misty-eyed, remembering the days of open roads and British engineering. Founded in 1904, this storied British manufacturer was part of many two-wheeled dreams—until it vanished from the scene in 1967. But now, thanks to a 2022 investment fund with a nose for nostalgia (and presumably a love for leather jackets), the brand is back.
What’s more, their recent appearance at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan in 2024 didn’t just make a few ripples—it was a wave of surprise. Spectators were treated to a collection of fresh models, teasing a possible expansion into France and sparking enthusiasm across borders. It’s not every day you see a legend come out of retirement looking this good.
New Models, Classic Soul
Of course, a legendary name means little without the iron to back it up. Phelon & Moore’s new lineup—built in China but packed with historical allure—is vying for its own chapter in European motorcycling. The highlights?
- Two versions of the custom Panther (a crowd favorite for brand loyalists),
- The Capetown trail bike,
- And, for urban adventurers, two Panthette scooters.
The Panther is undeniably the star here, and its new versions (C and S) show that Phelon & Moore knows how to honor its roots. Both bikes come with a 573 cm³ V-twin, churning out 55 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and a punchy 48.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The Panther C rolls in as a chopper, radiating classic cool, while the Panther S channels a more stripped-back bobber vibe—ideal for riders who prefer minimalism with a retro kick. If you thought nostalgia couldn’t come with muscle, think again.
Capetown Trail & The Urban Scooter Revival
Not to be upstaged, the Capetown trail bike arrives in two flavors: 7S and 7X. It carries a 693 cm³ twin engine boasting 74 horses and 68 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The tech is impossible to ignore—a 19-inch front wheel, a single-sided swingarm for a unique look and ride, and a 7-inch connected TFT dashboard (because even purists deserve a little high-tech thrill). It’s a clear sign that the brand is mixing classic style with modern features, refusing to leave technology languishing in the past.
The Panthette X and S scooters are keen not to be left in anyone’s dust, offering city-dwellers a stylish way to zigzag through traffic. Available in 125 cm³ and 300 cm³ displacements, the Panthette X draws inspiration from rugged all-rounders like the Honda X-ADV, while the S aims straight for the chic urban crowd. Together, they promise practicality, efficiency and a touch of elegance, ready to meet the many demands of urban life—parking dilemmas included (no magic solution there, sorry!).
Looking Beyond Italy
So, what about the rest of Europe? While Phelon & Moore’s return is officially on the road in Italy, French fans (and likely others across Europe) may have to hold their horses a bit longer: there’s still no official word on distribution in France. It’s all left waiting in the wings, despite the buzz from new motorcycles and scooters. However, with the hot trend for electric vehicles and renewed interest in vintage brands, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Phelon & Moore’s motorcycles rolling into more European capitals soon. No promises for now—but hope is definitely purring along.
The Legend Gears Up for Another Lap
The revival of Phelon & Moore has undoubtedly set hearts racing in the motoring world. With new models that tip a helmet to tradition while embracing a dash of modernity, the brand is poised to pen a fresh chapter in its already storied history. For those who appreciate both vintage flair and present-day performance, this is a rare opportunity: rediscovering a legendary name, now with a contemporary twist. Time to ready your riding boots—history doesn’t wait at the red light for long.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
