Meet The New Magnolia 4 By Iconic Designer JT Nesbitt

Renowned motorcycle designer JT Nesbitt, formerly of Curtiss Motorcycles, has revealed his latest project: the Magnolia 4. This new design represents Nesbitt's vision of a contemporary motorcycle that pays homage to vintage American machines, particularly the inline four-cylinder models that dominated the U.S. market from 1910 to 1940.

The Magnolia 4, a nod to Nesbitt's New Orleans roots, features a long, low-slung chassis housing an inline four-cylinder engine. This deliberate configuration aims to evoke memories of iconic American brands like the Ace, Henderson, and Indian, while at the same time incorporating modern engineering solutions.

What Powers The Magnolia 4?

Technically, the Magnolia 4 is a ground-up design. Its 1750cc engine boasts a shaft-and-bevel overhead camshaft, internal oil cooling, and a built-up crankshaft offering multiple configurations. The 3-speed gearbox employs a hand-operated system with a centrifugal clutch, driven by two counter-rotating flywheels to counteract crankshaft vibration. Interestingly and quite impressively, the bike is kickstart-only and operates without batteries.

The chassis design borrows elements from Nesbitt's work on the Curtiss One eBike, featuring a girder fork and a unique rear suspension setup. A traditional saddle with an Indian-style forward mount adds a vintage touch, supported by a composite leaf spring and hydropneumatic shock.

The Looks

Aesthetically, the Magnolia 4 blends 1930s-inspired design elements with contemporary lines. Details like riveted fenders and flowing contours create a visual link to the golden age of American motorcycles. Nesbitt's approach to the Magnolia 4 goes beyond mere nostalgia. The bike will be engineered for longevity, with an ambitious goal of 100-year service life and full repairability. This focus on durability and serviceability stands in contrast to many modern designs.

While the Magnolia 4 is currently a design concept, it represents an intriguing direction for motorcycle design. It raises questions about the potential for blending classic aesthetics with modern performance and the appetite for such machines in today's market.