British

R and P Motorcycles

Robinson and Price Ltd, Chatham Street, Liverpool

R and P motorcycles were produced from 1902 to 1906. This company built primitives using 346cc 2¼ hp and 2¾ hp engines mounted vertically in the frame. The machines were well made and, like the Bradbury, the crankcase was cast around the main frame tubes under Birch patents.

In 1904, a forecar was added, but production would have been limited.

The firm also built cyclecars, producing two models in 1905/1906 fitted with single and twin cylinder engines. These did not fare well in the market. They tried again in 1913, but war brought a halt to proceedings.


Report from the Stanley Show 1902:

Robinson and Price, Ltd., Chatham Street, Liverpool. Two specimens of the "R. and P." motor-bicycle are shown. These embody such new and special features that we deem the machine worthy of a full description. The bottom bracket and engine crank case are all cast in one piece, with socket lugs for the chain stays, tube from head, and strut of frame. The left side of the crank case is detachable by removing six bolts. The 2.125 h.p. engine is vertical; the silencer is of triangular shape, and is made of layers of aluminium and asbestos to prevent resonance. A spray carburetter is fitted, the air-regulating lever coming up through the tank. The rear portion of the tank is an oil reservoir; on turning a tap underneath, the oil drips through a sight-glass and through a large diameter copper-pipe to the crank case; the rate of drip can be regulated by a set screw. This is a very valuable and original feature. The tank is made in two pieces, recessed to fit the frame tubes. In the space between the two halves all the electric wires are concealed.

Wipe contact, with trembler on coil, is fitted. The first touch on the front wheel brake lever cuts off the current, further pressure putting on the brake. The throttle lever is on the handlebar, also the exhaust valve lift. The front forks, crown and steering tube are substantial; the steering head turns on 3/8in. balls. V belt is used, the pulley being spoked into the rear rim with short spokes and nipples. The belt can be adjusted by draw-bolts at the back fork ends, and the chain by means of an eccentric in the bottom bracket.

Motor Cycling, 26th November 1902
Stanley Show 1902

Robinson and Price, Ltd.

Robinson and Price, Ltd., will occupy the same stand as last year, where their motor bicycle will again be on show, but with many improvements in detail. Several 2¼ and 2¾ h.p. bicycles will be exhibited, the noticeable features of which will be the fitness of design in the vertical engine built into the frame — large diameter straight tubes, strong forks, large ball bearings, and new contact breaker.

The Motor Cycle, November 18th, 1903. Page 798
Stanley Show 1903

Sources: Graces Guide, Motor Cycling, The Motor Cycle, Autopasion18.com.

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