Lawrence Of Arabia's Brough Superior: A Lost Legacy?

Hey guys! Ever heard of Lawrence of Arabia? Of course, you have! This legendary figure of the early 20th century, known for his daring exploits during World War I, and his iconic image, often seen astride a camel. But did you know he was also a huge motorcycle enthusiast? More specifically, he was a massive fan of the Brough Superior motorcycle. Today, we're diving deep into what happened to his beloved bikes. It's a tale of adventure, tragedy, and the enduring legacy of a man and his machines. So, buckle up, because we're about to take a ride through history!

Lawrence of Arabia and His Passion for Speed

Lawrence, whose real name was T.E. Lawrence, was a man of many talents and interests. While he's best known for his role in the Arab Revolt, he was also a writer, scholar, and, crucially, a petrolhead. He wasn't just interested in any motorcycle; he was captivated by the Brough Superior. These bikes, often called the “Rolls-Royce of motorcycles,” were the epitome of luxury and performance in their day. The Brough Superior was the brainchild of George Brough, who set out to create the ultimate motorcycle, and he certainly succeeded. These bikes were known for their powerful engines, advanced engineering, and exquisite craftsmanship. Lawrence of Arabia owned several Brough Superiors throughout his life, each one a testament to his love for speed and adventure. He saw these machines as more than just a means of transport; they were extensions of himself, capable of taking him on incredible journeys.

His choice of the Brough Superior wasn't random; it was a reflection of his personality. He was a man who appreciated quality, performance, and the thrill of the open road. The Brough Superior offered all of that and more. Imagine tearing across the desert, the wind in your face, on a machine that embodied both power and elegance – that was the experience Lawrence craved. He famously used these motorcycles for touring around England and to connect with his friends and associates. He understood the potential to travel great distances with incredible speed. His machines were highly customized, reflecting his personal preferences and the demands of his travels. We are talking about a true gearhead here, right?

Strongly, he was obsessed. His bikes became symbols of his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for fine engineering. He didn't just ride these bikes; he lived with them, cared for them, and depended on them. The Brough Superior became synonymous with Lawrence of Arabia, a symbol of his free spirit and his pursuit of adventure. If you think about it, the motorcycle allowed him freedom, independence, and the chance to escape the confines of his public persona, giving him moments of solitude and introspection. He was a celebrity with a passion for bikes. Each motorcycle was a unique expression of his personality.

The Superiors That Defined an Era

Lawrence owned multiple Brough Superior motorcycles. Each one was a testament to his love of speed and his appreciation for fine engineering. The bikes were not just modes of transportation; they were integral parts of his identity. His most famous bike was a SS100, a model renowned for its blistering performance. These machines were capable of incredible speeds, making them the perfect companions for Lawrence's adventurous lifestyle. The SS100 was more than just a motorcycle; it was a symbol of speed, power, and freedom. He chose it to travel around Great Britain for personal reasons or government-related affairs. The SS100 was the pinnacle of motorcycle engineering at the time. With its powerful engine and advanced features, it was in a league of its own. It was a statement of his personality. He also owned other models, each one meticulously chosen and maintained. These included SS80s, which were slightly less powerful but still offered exceptional performance. Each bike was a testament to his dedication to quality and his desire to experience the best that the world had to offer.

The Tragic Fate and Last Ride of Lawrence

Sadly, the story of Lawrence of Arabia and his Brough Superiors has a tragic ending. On May 19, 1935, while riding his SS100 near his home in Dorset, England, Lawrence was involved in a horrific accident. He swerved to avoid two cyclists and was thrown from his motorcycle. The injuries he sustained were fatal; he passed away six days later. This event shocked the world and marked the end of an era. The news of his death was particularly poignant because of the way he died: on one of his beloved Brough Superiors. The accident happened during a time when motorcycle safety wasn't what it is today, with no helmets or protective gear. The circumstances of his death, coupled with his fame, cemented his status as a legend, but it also made the Brough Superior synonymous with both his triumphs and his tragic end. His passing brought a sudden and premature end to a life filled with adventure. His death brought an era to an end. It was a life lived at full throttle, both in the deserts of Arabia and on the roads of England. The loss was felt deeply, not only by his friends and family but also by the world at large. Lawrence's legacy would live on, forever intertwined with the Brough Superior motorcycles that he loved so dearly.

The Impact of the Accident

The accident had a far-reaching impact. It prompted changes in motorcycle safety regulations in the UK. The government saw the dangers of motorcycle riding and started to implement changes to make roads safer. This was the era before safety standards and requirements such as mandatory helmets and other safety equipment were introduced. His death led to increased awareness of road safety. His death also brought a renewed interest in the Brough Superior motorcycles, which were already highly sought after. Collectors and enthusiasts saw the motorcycles as even more valuable, now imbued with the mystique of Lawrence’s legend. The accident highlighted the inherent risks of motorcycling. It led to advancements in road safety. It was a catalyst for change. It reminded everyone about the fragility of life. Lawrence’s tragic accident played a role in shaping the future of motorcycling. It also increased the value and desirability of the Brough Superior motorcycles.

The Legacy of Lawrence's Brough Superiors

So, what happened to the Brough Superiors that Lawrence of Arabia rode? After his death, his motorcycles became highly prized possessions. Some were passed down through his estate, while others were sold to collectors. They are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world. These motorcycles are more than just machines; they are historical artifacts that tell a story of adventure, tragedy, and enduring legend. Each bike is a time capsule, carrying with it the spirit of Lawrence and the era in which he lived. It would be an understatement to say that the legacy of Lawrence's Brough Superiors lives on, it lives and breathes. The motorcycles are featured in museums. They continue to be exhibited at shows. They continue to be the subject of documentaries and books. They have become symbols of a bygone era, reminding us of the man who dared to live life to the fullest. They remind us of the thrill of the open road and the freedom of the ride. Their value has appreciated over time, with some of the bikes fetching prices that reflect their historical significance and rarity. They are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their engineering and design, and their connection to one of history's most fascinating figures.

Where are they now?

Several of Lawrence's Brough Superiors have been located and are now in the hands of private collectors and museums. Finding the exact whereabouts of all of them is an ongoing quest, as the motorcycles have changed hands many times over the decades. Some have been meticulously restored to their original condition. Others are preserved as they were, carrying the marks of their history. One of the most famous examples is the SS100, which was involved in the fatal accident. It has been restored and is now on display in a museum, serving as a reminder of Lawrence's life and legacy. Other motorcycles are occasionally offered for sale at auction, commanding high prices from enthusiasts eager to own a piece of history. The discovery of each new motorcycle and its eventual restoration helps to keep the story alive.

The Enduring Appeal of the Brough Superior

The Brough Superior motorcycles, especially those associated with Lawrence of Arabia, have an enduring appeal. They represent a combination of engineering, craftsmanship, and historical significance that is hard to find in any other motorcycle. Their value is not just monetary; it's a value rooted in the stories they tell and the people they connect us to. The bikes were built by hand, using the finest materials and the most advanced techniques. The Brough Superior represents the pinnacle of early 20th-century motorcycle design. The engines were powerful, the handling was exceptional, and the overall build quality was unmatched. The Brough Superior motorcycles represent the golden age of motorcycling. They embody the spirit of adventure. They were also the epitome of luxury and performance. The motorcycles were beautiful machines. They appealed to individuals who appreciated both form and function. They continue to attract attention from enthusiasts who are drawn to their historical significance. They provide a tangible connection to a bygone era. They represent a legacy that continues to resonate with motorcycle enthusiasts. These bikes are not just about transportation; they are about a way of life, a passion for engineering, and an appreciation for the past.

In conclusion, the story of Lawrence of Arabia and his Brough Superiors is a captivating one. It is a story of adventure, tragedy, and the enduring legacy of a man and his machines. The Brough Superior motorcycles, especially those ridden by Lawrence, represent a significant chapter in motorcycle history. They represent a combination of engineering, craftsmanship, and historical significance that is hard to find in any other motorcycle. Although the exact whereabouts of all his bikes remain somewhat of a mystery, the passion for these machines endures. If you are interested in historical facts, the Brough Superior has a place among the best.

So, next time you see a Brough Superior, remember the man who loved them, the man who lived life on the edge, the man who was Lawrence of Arabia.