The new chassis design of the Empire sidecar. Four-point attachment is adopted, the two front supports being connected with a supplementary arm.
A Sidecar to Government Specification for Private Owners.
THE Empire sidecar is not so well known to the riding public as it is to large producers of sidecar outfits. Before the war the bulk of the Empire output was absorbed by trade requirements, and during hostilities several thousands of them were supplied to the Government for Triumph and B.S.A., machines. From this it will be gathered that Messrs. Lowe's Empire Sidecar Co., Ltd., has a larger output than is usually realised.
At the time of our visit to the Empire Sidecar works last week we saw several hundreds of these vehicles in stock which were awaiting instructions for delivery. The Government has not entirely released the company to resume their normal business, but have sanctioned their making a certain number for the public.
The military model sidecar is built under a patented process, all panels being of special hydraulically-pressed close annealed steel, which, incidentally, makes a totally different proposition from the usual sheet metal body. The design is most pleasing and the general finish considerably above the average. The seat and back are double sprung, while the "trimming" on the sides and tops is well carried out ; in fact, throughout, the sidecar is built for hard service. There are the usual large tool-chests under the seat, and side pockets for maps, etc.
The Chassis.
Designed specially for W.D. B.S.A. and Triumph machines on active service, the chassis is particularly sturdy in construction. At every point this is in evidence, as will be appreciated by an examination of the photograph reproduced. The wheel is extra strong, with 10 gauge spokes, built on a wide dustproof hub, which has a knurled cap. All lugs are cast with webs, and the shackles are castings with oilers and gunmetal bushes. The springs are connected by shouldered bolts, so that it is impossible to tighten the nuts up against the edges of the springs. A well-stayed 5in. guard with full valance is fitted.
In every way the military model Empire is a first-class sidecar, and one which can be quickly attached and detached.
The makers are Lowe's Empire Motor and Sidecar Co., Ltd., Empire Works, Birmingham.
The Motor Cycle February 27th, 1919.
See also Gosford Engineering Co.
