Way back in 1935, a southern California businessman named E. Foster Salsbury spotted Amelia Earhart scooting around Lockheed Airport in Burbank, California, on a tiny motorized two-wheeler. Impressed with the little machine, Salsbury had a vision of a cheap and cheerful vehicle to offset the gloom and hardship of the Depression era. He immediately retained the services of engineer and inventor Austin Elmore and set to work making his vision a reality. Salsbury’s first scooter, the Motor Glide, was released in 1936. Powered by a 2-stroke Evinrude motor, only a handful—two dozen or so—were made. They proved to be wildly popular among movie stars and other SoCal celebrities, however, and were often spotted at airports and on movie sets. Flamboyant, barnstorming aviator Colonel Roscoe Turner became the company’s spokesman, and Salsbury was well on his way to making his mark on motoring history. The second-generation Salsbury scooters—the Aero and Aero 30—were released in 1937. These machines were a massive leap forward, both stylistically and technologically. Salsbury ditched the smoky, 2-stroke Evinrude mill for a cleaner and more robust Johnson 4-stroke unit. The styling was upgraded, the engine enclosed, and a full fender was added to the front wheel. These were followed closely by the Model 40, Model 50 and Model 60—for which the company designed a fully automatic, CVT transmission. Unfortunately for Salsbury, World War II killed nearly all of the company’s momentum. The wartime economy made development and parts sourcing incredibly difficult, and it was a reeling, unsteady company that entered the postwar era. Salsbury’s final scooter, the space-age Model 85, was released in 1946. A streamlined, fully enclosed machine, it was touted as the future of personal transportation. Powered by a bespoke 320cc/6 HP single-cylinder engine, the Model 85 featured Salsbury’s patented automatic transmission, automotive-style throttle and brake pedals, and came in two options—Standard and Deluxe. Not even the eye-catching Model 85 could stop Salsbury’s tailspin, however, and the company declared bankruptcy in 1948. The Model 85 offered here was built in 1947, and is a fantastic example of the type. Painted fire engine red and decorated with tasteful chrome accents, the streamlined little scooter looks fast standing still. The scooter has been professionally restored, and is sure to bring a dose of cheerfulness to its next garage. 1947 SALSBURY MODEL 85
