1899 Beeston Ladies’ Model Motor Tricycle

A rare opportunity to acquire what is believed to be the only surviving Beeston Ladies’ Model motor tricycle.

The New Beeston Cycle Co. was one of the earliest British cycle manufacturers to enter the emerging motor-vehicle industry. After experimenting with prototypes from 1896, the company introduced motor tricycles powered by engines based on the De Dion-Bouton design.

Beeston’s 1899 catalogue included an open-front motor tricycle based on its Ladies’ Model K pedal tricycle. While eight Gentlemen’s Model Beeston motor tricycles are known to survive worldwide, this is believed to be the sole surviving example of the Ladies’ Model.

Offered as an unfinished but substantially complete restoration project, the work carried out so far is of an exceptionally high standard.

The project includes:

• Excellent original frame with fitted mudguard
• Complete 1899 Motor Manufacturing Co. engine
• Newly built wheels
• Correct handlebars, brake lever, pedals and saddle
• Unmachined engine-control levers
• Correct battery and coil box
• Complete differential and casing, with all gears and half-shafts rebuilt
• Correct reproduction three-tube silencer
• Machined but not yet fitted rear pedal-chain sprocket
• Length of block chain

To complete the machine, the new owner will need to source a surface carburettor and manufacture the control rods and the cones and cups for the rear axle.

A fascinating and potentially unique pioneer motor-vehicle project, offering the opportunity to complete an exceptionally rare example of early British motoring history.

Price: £28,000

Further information and additional photographs are available from the owner.