Technical Paper
Glenn H. Curtiss: An Early American Innovator in Aviation and Motorcycle Engines
1994-03-01
940571
Glenn H. Curtiss (1878-1930), an early member of the SAE, was one of America's premier aviation pioneers, a self-taught engineer, and creator of a broad series of commercially successful engines for both aviation and motorcycles. Best known for his aerial accomplishments (from the 1908 June Bug to World War I aircraft, such as the JN-4 Jenny trainer), Curtiss developed solid experience with engines long before (dating back to 1901). His early interest in bicycle racing led to motorcycling and his motorcycle engines evolved into aero engines-first for airships, then aeroplanes. Curtiss engines of this era (the most familiar are his V-8 4-stroke water-cooled designs) were noted for advanced construction materials, lighter-than-average weight, reasonable reliability and some innovative mechanical features.