Far Rockaway Studio Photo of Man with Tie and Indian Motorcycle 1905 Real Photo Postcard

Early motor-bicycles, often called "motocycles" or "autocycles," represent a critical phase in the evolution of personal transportation around the turn of the 20th century. These machines were essentially robust bicycles modified with small internal combustion engines, providing a new level of speed and autonomy for individuals. The prominent bulb horn, like the one seen, was a standard accessory for signaling on these early, often noisy, motorized conveyances, reflecting the nascent stage of automotive safety and road etiquette.

This postcard captures a moment likely in the first two decades of the 1900s, an era when such vehicles symbolized modernity, engineering innovation, and a growing fascination with speed and mechanical progress. The rider's casual but neat attire is characteristic of men's fashion during this period for leisure activities. The playful caption, "Chook-chook-chook," mimics the sound of an early engine, emphasizing the novelty and excitement surrounding these pioneering forms of personal motorized travel, possibly enjoyed in a location such as Far Rockaway.