c.1901 Perks & Birch/Singer Tricycle Project

Registration no. not registered Engine no. 125 (see text)

• Early motorised tricycle
• Extremely rare
• Three engines and numerous spare parts included

The Singer Motor Wheel was invented by Messrs Edwin Perks and Frank Birch, who took out patents to the design in 1899. Their invention consisted of a small four-stroke engine complete with carburettor, fuel tank, and low-tension magneto, which was housed within an eight-spoked cast-aluminium wheel suitable for attachment to any standard bicycle (at the rear) or tricycle (at the front). The pair began manufacturing the Perks & Birch Motor Wheel at their works in Coventry. The neighbouring Singer Cycle Company was their main customer, and in 1900 Singer acquired the rights to the P&B Motor Wheel, which they proceeded to improve. Out of the handful of known survivors, bicycle versions of the Singer Motor Wheel are owned by the National Motor Museum and the Shuttleworth Collection. Very few tricycles are known of, making this an exceptionally rare machine from motoring's pioneering age.

This lot includes three engines, numbers: '125', '247' and '621', '125'being the earliest engine known to exist. Engine '247' was purchased in Wales where it had been used to power a saw bench. One of main reasons it was purchased was because it had the original low-tension Simms magneto that was missing from engine '125'. This Lot also includes much research information, including correspondence with the Birch family, and many photographs. There is also an impressive amount of information, photographs, period advertisements, and articles on a USB memory stick.

Restoration work on engine number '125' has started, with pattern making, casting, and machining work carried out. In addition, the pattern for the late-type cylinder barrel has been made and one casting produced for the later Singer motor wheel engine. Most original cycle parts are included either to use 'as is' or to serve as patterns. Other noteworthy features include an original Dunlop tyre on one of the spare motor wheels, and auxiliary fuel and oil tanks by Singer, which were extras that greatly increase the vehicle's range.

The private vendor believes the tricycle to be of Singer type albeit with incorrect front forks and handlebars, and without the '125' engine and wheel fitted; however, its exact origins are unknown. This Lot comprises a vast array of components of varying condition and completeness. Accordingly, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves as to the suitability, date, origins, and correctness of these components prior to bidding. Close inspection advised.

When completed, and following the relevant Sunbeam Pioneer Motor Cycle Club application, this motorised tricycle should be eligible for both the London-Brighton Veteran Car Run and the Pioneer Run as well as many other events for Veteran cars and motorcycles.