Alex Moulton From Bristol to Bradford – a lifetime in engineering
Alex Moulton
978-1-872922-39-2
In his autobiography, Alex Moulton provides a family history and their connection with the rubber industry including his early years before joining Bristol aero engines during the WWII. After returning to complete his studies at Cambridge University, Alex Moulton began research and development at the family firm, Spencer Moulton, to find new projects for rubber suspensions. Moulton Development Ltd was the new company for the development of rubber suspension for vehicles. One chapter discusses in more detail regarding the Hydrolastic and hydrogas suspensions.
Following the Suez crisis in 1956 and the rationing of fuel, Alex turned his attention to the bicycle, bought a Curly Hetchins and considered how this could be improved. First, the wheel size was reviewed and then the shape of the frame was developed culminating in the launch of the Moulton bicycle in 1962. This continued with the launch of the new space-frame models in 1983 that are continuing to be manufactured.
Alex held a lifelong interest in steam power from his youth with his apprenticeship at the Sentinel works in Shrewsbury and over many years he developed his steam engines to power his launches. On the water Alex also enjoyed using the kayak.
Copies of
his notes and sketches are included in his lifetime in
engineering.
320 pages