Freddie Dixon, English motorcycle racer and racing driver (d. 1956)
Frederick William Dixon, affectionately known as "Flying Freddie," was a towering figure in British motorsport during the early to mid-20th century. Born on April 21, 1892, in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, England, he carved out an extraordinary legacy as one of the very few competitors to achieve significant success across two, three, and four wheels – a testament to his exceptional versatility, mechanical acumen, and sheer driving talent. His career, spanning both motorcycle and car racing, was marked by innovative design and numerous victories, earning him a revered place in motorsport history until his passing on November 4, 1956, at the age of 64 in Reigate, Surrey.
Early Life and the Path to Engineering
Frederick William Dixon's journey began in humble circumstances as one of eight children born to John and Martha Dixon (née Agar). His innate mechanical curiosity manifested early; at the tender age of thirteen, he left school to immerse himself in the world of machinery, first in a cycle shop and then progressing to a local garage. This hands-on experience proved invaluable, laying the groundwork for his profound understanding of vehicle mechanics. By 1909, Dixon acquired his first motorcycle, and within just a year, he was already demonstrating his competitive spirit in local speed and hill climb events, hinting at the remarkable career that lay ahead.
Mastering Two Wheels: Motorcycle Racing Triumphs
Dixon’s foray into competitive motorcycle racing quickly gained momentum. His debut at the prestigious Isle of Man TT race in 1912, riding a "Cleveland Precision" motorcycle, was an early learning experience as the machine proved inadequate for the rigorous demands of the circuit. However, this initial setback only fueled his determination.
The Innovative Banking Sidecar System
One of Dixon’s most enduring contributions to motorsport was his pioneering design of the motorcycle and banking sidecar system. This revolutionary innovation allowed the sidecar to lean into corners along with the motorcycle, significantly improving stability, speed, and handling compared to conventional rigid sidecars. The ingenious system was manually operated by the passenger, who would move a large lever attached to the sidecar chassis, also controlling the sidecar’s three-wheel disc brakes. This design fundamentally changed sidecar racing, transforming it from a static, physically demanding challenge into a more dynamic and technically advanced discipline.
Isle of Man TT Legend
After his service in World War I, Dixon returned to racing with renewed vigor, establishing his own business, Park Garage, on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough. It was during this period that he truly made his mark on the legendary Isle of Man TT, securing numerous top placings in various categories across 1921, 1923, 1924, 1926, and 1927. His expertise in motorcycle and sidecar racing culminated in a spectacular victory at the 1923 Isle of Man TT. Riding a Douglas motorcycle fitted with his groundbreaking banking sidecar system and accompanied by passenger Thomas Walter Denney, he secured first place, a testament to both his skill and his innovative design. His success continued in 1927 when, as a factory rider for HRD (a manufacturer that would later become the iconic Vincent HRD), he became the first person in history to win both a sidecar race and a solo race at the Isle of Man TT, cementing his status as a dual-threat legend. He retired from motorcycle racing in 1928 at the height of his powers.
War Service and Entrepreneurial Spirit
The outbreak of World War I saw Dixon put his mechanical skills to service for his country. He spent four years in the Army Service Corps, a crucial branch responsible for logistical support, eventually rising to the rank of staff sergeant. This period undoubtedly honed his organizational and technical capabilities. Following his commendable war service, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into establishing his own venture, the Park Garage in Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, a business that would support his renewed racing ambitions.
Conquering Four Wheels: A New Chapter in Car Racing
Not content with his immense success on two and three wheels, Frederick Dixon made a seamless and remarkably successful transition to car racing in 1932. He quickly earned a reputation for his meticulously prepared, independently entered Riley cars, showcasing his engineering prowess even further. His achievements in car racing proved every bit as impressive as his motorcycle triumphs, solidifying his status as a truly versatile motorsport icon.
Notable Car Racing Achievements and the BRDC Gold Star
Dixon's four-wheel career was adorned with significant victories and accolades. In 1934, he triumphed in the prestigious BRDC 500-mile handicap race at Brooklands, a historic British motor racing circuit. That same year, he showcased his endurance racing capabilities by securing an impressive third place at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, partnering with Cyril Paul in a Riley 12/6 (1.5L) MPH Racing. His dominance continued into 1935, when he clinched the BRDC Empire Trophy, again at Brooklands, and also emerged victorious in the RAC Tourist Trophy race held at the challenging Ards circuit in Belfast. The following year, 1936, saw him conquer the Brooklands 500-mile race for a second time, and, with Charles Dodson, he again won the RAC Tourist Trophy at Ards, marking his second win in that prestigious event. A remarkable highlight of his car racing career was setting an unbroken record at Brooklands: he was the only driver ever to lap the circuit at 130 mph in a car with an engine capacity of less than 2 litres, a testament to his skill and his car preparation. For these outstanding contributions and his consistent high-level performance, Dixon was twice awarded the coveted British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) Gold Star, a prestigious honor bestowed upon the most successful British drivers, receiving it in both 1934 and 1935.
Post-War Contributions and Lasting Legacy
Even after his primary racing career wound down, Dixon's mechanical expertise remained highly sought after. In 1948, the Douglas motorcycle company, a prominent British manufacturer, enlisted his help in the development of their T35 motorcycle. This model was significant as one of the first truly new British post-war motorcycle designs. Dixon's keen eye and engineering talent led him to redesign the top half of the engine, and these crucial modifications resulted in the improved "Mark 3 Douglas" machine, further underscoring his lasting impact on motorcycle engineering. Beyond his technical innovations and numerous victories, Frederick William "Flying Freddie" Dixon's legacy is that of a multi-talented motorsport pioneer who mastered every challenge he faced, leaving an indelible mark on the history of British racing.
Personal Life
Away from the demanding world of motorsport, Frederick Dixon married Margaret Thew in January 1926 at St. Barnabas Church, Middlesbrough. Together, they shared a family life and had one daughter, Jean. He passed away on November 4, 1956, at the age of 64, in Reigate, Surrey, leaving behind a family and an extraordinary sporting legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick "Flying Freddie" Dixon
Who was Frederick William Dixon?
Frederick William Dixon, often called "Flying Freddie," was a celebrated English motorsport competitor known for his exceptional versatility and success across motorcycle, sidecar, and car racing disciplines in the early to mid-20th century. He was also an innovator, notably designing a revolutionary banking sidecar system.
What was the "banking sidecar system" designed by Dixon?
Dixon's banking sidecar system was an innovative design that allowed the sidecar to lean in conjunction with the motorcycle as it navigated corners. This significantly improved stability, handling, and speed, and was operated manually by the passenger using a large lever and controlling three-wheel disc brakes.
How many Isle of Man TT races did Frederick Dixon win?
Frederick Dixon won the Isle of Man TT Sidecar race in 1923 with his banking sidecar system. In 1927, he made history by becoming the first person to win both a sidecar race and a solo race at the Isle of Man TT in the same year.
What were some of his major achievements in car racing?
In car racing, Dixon achieved significant success, including winning the BRDC 500-mile handicap race at Brooklands (1934), finishing third at the 24 Hours of Le Mans (1934), winning the BRDC Empire Trophy (1935), and winning the RAC Tourist Trophy at Ards twice (1935, 1936). He also set an unbroken record at Brooklands, lapping at 130 mph in a sub-2-litre car.
Did he receive any prestigious awards for his car racing?
Yes, Frederick Dixon was twice awarded the coveted British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) Gold Star for his outstanding achievements in car racing, receiving this honor in both 1934 and 1935.
What was Frederick Dixon's nickname?
Frederick William Dixon was widely known by his popular nickname, "Flying Freddie," reflecting his speed and daring on the track.
What was his contribution to the Douglas motorcycle company?
In 1948, Dixon assisted the Douglas motorcycle company in developing their T35 model, one of Britain's first post-war designs. He redesigned the top half of the engine, leading to significant improvements and the creation of the "Mark 3 Douglas" machine.