Description
With a background in bicycle manufacturing, Humber began manufacturing motor vehicles as early as 1896, exhibiting motorcycles at 'The International Horseless Carriage Exhibition' that year. Production of Humber vehicles continued at both Beeston, Nottingham and Coventry, with significant rivalry between the two factories, with the Beeston factories generally being reserved for the production of the more expensive models.
The Humber Olympia motorcycle tandem is an ideal vehicle for two riders. All control is in the hands of the rear rider, while the passenger is up front, out of reach of dust and exhaust fumes, and conversation is easy. The front seat is most comfortable suspended on springs and is excellently upholstered, luxurious to even the most delicate. The steering is not affected by the absence or presence of a passenger and is easier than that of a regular tricycle. This is how Humber described their 1903 offering.
The air-cooled engine was built under Phelon & Moore license, with an automatic intake valve and a bore and stroke of 80x77mm, giving a capacity of 403cc.
This front carriage was formerly part of the Rootes Group Heritage Collection, which was distributed at auction in London in October 1969. It was acquired by the previous owner's family in the mid-1970s and was the first veteran on which they completed the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run (in 1974).
One of the earliest surviving Humbers, this tandem front wagon, with its comfortable, coachbuilt front seat, is presented in blue livery with red coachlining and furnished with deep buttoned blue leather upholstery, while additional equipment includes Lucas 'King of the Road' oil side lamps and nickel-plated fittings .
Offered with a V5 registration document, this Beeston-built Humber – as indicated by the ‘B’ prefix to the engine number – has not been in active use for some years, but has been well stored and the engine regularly turned. The usual careful recommissioning will be required for use on the prestigious London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, while it is worth noting that ‘PSL 893′ is also eligible for the equally prestigious Sunbeam MCC’s Pioneer Run from Epsom to Brighton and the VMCC’s BANBURY Run.
