James Cycle Co

James Cycle Co.
Founded1884
FounderHarold James
Defunct1966
SuccessorAssociated Motor Cycles
Headquarters
James Superswift with Villiers 247 cc twin-cylinder engine

The James Cycle Co Ltd., Greet, Birmingham, England, was one of many British cycle and motorcycle makers based in the English Midlands, particularly Birmingham. Most of their light motorcycles, often with the characteristic maroon finish, used Villiers and, later, AMC two-stroke engines.

James were prolific bicycle and motorcycle manufacturers from 1884 to 1966. The company was taken over by Associated Motor Cycles in 1951 and combined with Francis-Barnett in 1957. In 1966 the company became one of the many British motorcycle companies forced out of business by Japanese competition.

James Captain 197 cc