The History of Valley Motor CyclesValley Motor Cycles has been in Bevois Valley Road, Southampton since its inception nearly 60 years ago. It is the oldest resident business in that street and has seen many competitors come and go. Started by Harold Gregory as the Auto Hospital in the early post war years it has seen a vast change in the motorcycle, the motorcycle market and the needs of the motorcyclist. Amongst the motorcycling trade in Southampton it is an institution. It has witnessed the rise and fall of many British brands such as Norton, Ariel and Matchless and the dominance of the Japanese makes that it specialises in today. The pictures on this page show key points in Valley Motorcycles past. Note the changing street numbers, although the company has never actually left Bevois Valley Road, it has, at one time or another, occupied several buildings throughout its length. Auto HospitalIn the early days Valley Motor Cycles was known as the Motor Cycle Hospital.
Early Picture, c1950 - many of the vehicles are Army Surplus from WW2. 1950's
Harold Gregory in the 1950's, then at 104 Bevois Valley Road. Bikes on display include Matchless, AJS, BSA and Triumph. The young man assisting Harold in this photograph is now in his 60's. 70's and 80's
Late 1970's. Now at Number 110 Bevois Valley Road. Bikes on display are
mainly Valley Motorcycles in the Press
This picture from 1984 shows John Gregory standing atop a sea of motorcyle wheels. Breaking has always been a significant part of Valley Motor Cycles business and enables the company to be a provider of hard to find parts.
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