Abbot Ford Tricycles

A MINIATURE MOTOR TRICYCLE.

A LITTLE three-wheeler, embodying clutch and hand starter, intended for light delivery, has been placed on the market by the Abbott Ford Motor Scooter and Engineering Co., Ltd., 5, Surbiton Road, Kingston, Surrey.

The frame is constructed of strip steel, the longitudinal members terminating at the forward end in V shaped supports, which are welded to the steering head, laminated springs supporting the rear axle.

A 2½ h.p. two-stroke engine, having a bore and stroke of 77 mm. x 57 mm., and fitted with a Fellows magneto, is held between the rear ends of the frame members by two right angled plates.

The tank, holding half a gallon of petrol and oil mixed, is fixed immediately below the seat, the supports of which are welded to the main frame members. Attached to the seat support is a skeleton frame for the accommodation of a delivery box. The drive from the engine sprocket is taken by roller chain to a gear-reducing sprocket on a countershaft, from which the final drive is taken by chain to the rear axle. Located on the off side of the rear-axle sprocket is an external contracting band brake, operated from a pedal situated on the right of the footboard, and on the near side of the sprocket is a Ferodo-lined clutch, the clutch spring being located between the cone and a flange keyed to the axle. The clutch pedal, which is provided with a ratchet, is connected to the clutch ring by a rod and bell crank lever.

16in. X 2¼ in. tyres and attractive dome-shaped mudguards are fitted.

All the components of the scooter have been made as light as possible, resulting in a total weight of under 40 lb.

During our brief trial of this machine, the engine unit seemed quite satisfactory. It would be advisable, however, either completely to enclose the transmission system or provide an undershield to protect it from the mud and dust. This suggestion will, we understand, be carried out in future models. The springing of the rear wheel was good. The seat supporting members, however, are inclined to be weak, which permits considerable side sway when turning a corner. These members are also to be adequately improved.

Undoubtedly there is a potential demand for a light motor-driven vehicle for light delivery which will give a service showing decided advantages over the pedal carrier cycle, and which can be handled by a youth of average intelligence. To appeal to small shopkeepers, the price and the running costs must be kept low, and miniatures such as the Abbott Ford appear to fill the bill.

The Motor Cycle, April 1st, 1920.