Simplex produced the Sportsman series in the early to mid-60s. In 1962 and into early 1963, only one model was produced. This was known as the S model. For 1963, the S63 Sportsman used the 175cc Continental 4 cycle engine rated at 4.9hp. This model used the small six inch aluminum die cast wheels and a Fairbanks-Morse centrifugal clutch. Simplex also sold a rolling chassis with no engine or clutch for those who wanted to mount their own engine.

1963 Simplex Sportsman Model S63

Early in 1963, Simplex made several changes to the S63 and introduced it as the T63. These changes included a new oversize clutch; a change from 3/8" to ½" #41 chain; the addition of a chain guard; and the wheelbase was increased from 38" to 41". Additionally, a kick starter, front brakes, and a rear carrier were offered as options. This model went on to become the "B" Model in 1964.

1963 Simplex Sportsman Model T63

At the same time the T63 was introduced, two more models were added based on the T63. The T63D DeLuxe model came standard with the kick starter and front brakes. The T63W Woodsman model included the kick starter and front brakes, and also added a large 12" x 14" rear rack advertised as a "game carrier", and a countershaft was added allowing an extremely low gear range for off-road use.

1963 Simplex Sportsman Model T63W

About this same time a torque converter was offered which provided automatic shifting and a wide ratio range. This model became the Compact "C" model in 1964.

By 1964 Simplex continued to expand the Sportsman line with the "A" Model and the Sportsman Senior. The entry-level model "A" used a Briggs & Stratton 2.5hp engine with a centrifugal clutch and Reynolds 3/8" chain. It also used a smaller tire than the "B" and "C" Models (4.10" versus 5.30").

The Senior model had a 51" wheelbase, 12" wheels, and a rear swingarm suspension. The 175cc Continental engine was again used, but the carburetor and intake manifold were changed, and a higher compression head was used, raising power output to six horsepower. In order to sell the model to "Junior" license holders, a restrictor was available to limit the horsepower to 4.9hp.

Other changes in 1964 included an improved torque converter mount on the C model and compound front sprockets (a 10 tooth and a 20 tooth sprocket were used allowing a fairly quick change between highway and off-road gearing) on the other models.

By 1965, Simplex was producing a full line of Sportsman models. These included:

1965 Simplex Compact Sportsman Model A

• The "A" Model (shown above): now with a 3.25hp engine and automatic clutch. No kick starter option was available for this model. An "AL" model was also offered that had lights.
• The "B" Model: with the 175cc, 4.9hp Continental Red Seal engine, heavy duty clutch, full lighting and recoil starter. The kick starter and front brakes were optional.
• The "C" Model: Same as the "B" above except with a torque converter instead of a clutch.
1965 Simplex Senior Sportsman Model C


• The "Senior C" Model: Now with a 200cc, 7hp Continental Red Seal engine, torque converter, rear swingarm, and 12" wheels. Again, the kick starter and front brakes were optional.
1965 Simplex Senior Sportsman Model V


• The "Senior V" Model: Based on the Senior C, this model used an 11hp, 200cc Villiers motorcycle engine with a 4 speed transmission. The V model came standard with a passenger seat and speedometer.

By the middle of 1965, Simplex had become Valiant Manufacturing, and the company was selling the Compact C model now as the Simplex Trail. A new round Simplex logo appeared on the fuel tank, and the engine was now a Clinton 125cc four stroke.Front brakes became standard equipment. The Model A was also offered, still sporting the familiar Simplex Compact Sportsman decals and retailing for under $200.


1964 Simplex Compact Sportsman Model B


1964 Simplex Compact Sportsman Model C



Simplex Senior Sportsman

Those with an interest in Simplex Sportsman models of the 1960s can contact Mark Casillas at DISCOUNTCYCLES@aol.com.