Floyd Clymer (1895–1970) was a pioneering figure in the automotive and motorcycle world, known for his work as a publisher, racer, historian, and promoter of vintage vehicles. His passion for automobiles and motorcycles began at an early age—he was reportedly one of the youngest car dealers in the U.S., selling his first car (a Reo) at the age of 11. Over the years, he became deeply involved in racing, manufacturing, and documenting automotive history.

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Floyd Clymer’s Contributions & Career

  • Early Career in Automobiles: Clymer became a successful car and motorcycle dealer in the early 1900s, working with brands like Maxwell, Cadillac, and Harley-Davidson.
  • Racing & Promotion: He was involved in racing events, including motorcycle and auto races, which helped build his reputation in the industry.
  • Publishing & Historical Documentation: His greatest impact was in publishing. Starting in the 1940s, he dedicated himself to documenting automotive and motorcycle history, producing an extensive collection of books, magazines, and manuals.

Notable Publications

Clymer’s works covered a wide range of topics, from vintage car advertisements to repair manuals and historical compilations. Some of his most famous publications include:

Clymer Repair Manuals – These became the go-to guides for motorcycle and automobile enthusiasts, offering detailed repair and maintenance instructions for various makes and models.

Historical Motor Scrapbooks – A series of books compiling vintage advertisements, photographs, and articles on early automobiles, including steam cars, electric cars, and gasoline-powered vehicles.

Scrapbook of Early Auto Supplies – A collection focused on the accessories, tools, and equipment used in the early days of motoring.

Motorcycle and Auto Magazines – Clymer published numerous motorcycle-related magazines and books, preserving the history of brands like Indian, Harley-Davidson, and BMW.

Reprints of Vintage Catalogs & Manuals – He republished hard-to-find manufacturer catalogs and owner’s manuals, making historical automotive literature accessible to enthusiasts.

Legacy

Clymer’s work remains highly regarded among collectors, restorers, and historians. His scrapbooks and repair manuals are still valuable resources, and the Clymer name lives on through the Clymer Repair Manuals, which continue to be published for cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles.