Métisse Motorcycles was founded in 1958 by the Rickman brothers, Don and Derek, both successful motocross racers. They started by just building their own frames, but in 1959 launched their first complete motorcycle, the Mk1 Métisse.
In 1962, the legendary Mk3 was first raced and provided the catalyst for Métisse’s legendary innovative design and engineering excellence. In 1966, Métisse (French for Mongrel) branched out into the road racing scene and the first road racing motorcycle from Métisse was again a masterclass in innovation and outstanding handling,
Through the 70s, Métisse’s reputation was boosted in the USA by its record of successfully competing in desert racing and was championed by the likes of Steve McQueen and Bud Ekins. Their exporting success was acknowledged by the Queen’s Award to Industry in 1974.
In 1982 Pat French became the custodian for the Mk3 and Café Racers, continuing production and spares using the original moulds and jigs. Despite growing popularity and improved engineering from Japanese motorcycle manufacturers through the ’80s and ’90s, thanks to Pat French and his MRD company, the name of Métisse continued to thrive.
Following several changes of ownership over the ensuing years, Métisse Motorcycles is now run by Métisse enthusiast Gerry Lisi. In 2008 the iconic Steve McQueen Desert Race replica project was started, with Steve’s son, Chad personally becoming involved and ensuring all design details were correct. With the McQueen estate granting the rights for 300 to be produced in limited numbers, the iconic status of the Mk3 lives on. Métisse is the only British manufacturer that handcrafts unique motorcycles with its very own engine.
They currently build the limited edition Steve McQueen Desert Racer™ and other Mk3 and MK5 models, together with undertaking special projects and selling frame and bodywork kits from their premises in Faringdon, Oxfordshire.
