British

Today in Motorcycle History

Trent and Co

Trent were motorcycles produced from 1902 to 1905 by a small firm based at Wells Road, Shepherd's Bush, London.

This small firm built primitives and, by 1904, had both 107cc 2¾ hp and 3½ hp engines, mounted upright in a loop frame. They also had a forecar that was fitted with a 3¾ hp water-cooled engine driving a two-speed gear.

There is mention that these engines were fitted to Chater-Lea.

Trent and Co.

A forecarriage of very massive appearance is shown on this stand by Messrs. Trent and Co. The engine is a 3 h.p. air-cooled vertical one, placed in a dropped frame, and driving on to a rear pulley by a flat belt 2in. wide, double ply, laced together. The driving pulley on the rear wheel is spun in metal, and is drilled with a number of large diameter holes, which prevent the retention of grease and also the formation of any air pocket between the belt and the pulley upon which it runs. The forecarriage is attached to the down tube of the bicycle by means of a clip, and is supported by stays to the head, the steering gear being attached to a dummy spindle placed in position on the front hub. As is usual with forecarriages, three brakes are fitted to this machine. (Stand 73.)

The Motor Cycle November 25th, 1903. p851
National Show 1903 at Crystal Palace

There was also a Trent Cycle Co., Ltd., Long Eaton, (1897) which does not appear related.

Sources: Graces Guide, The Motor Cycle, contemporary advertising.



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