The unique vehicle offered here was produced in 1947 by Manchester-based Dot Motorcycles for evaluation by the Automobile Association, but was found to offer no advantage over the BSA motorcycle combinations then in use and after six months was withdrawn from service. Accompanying documentation includes a letter from the AA's librarian/archivist, Mr R J Flavell, confirming the machine's provenance and stating that the experiment began in January 1948, the Dot being stationed at Pains Hill on the Portsmouth Road (see photographs on file). Powered by a 122cc Villiers two-stroke engine coupled to a three-speed gearbox, the Dot tricycle featured a tubular axle carrying the two front wheels, between which was mounted a large box for carrying tools, fuel, etc, while the rear section was basically that of a conventional motorcycle. The brakes were operated by pedal and in addition there was a handbrake. Cruising speed was a relatively modest 25mph and fuel consumption in the region of 90-100mpg. Dated 30th May 1990, Mr Flavell's letter was addressed to the Dot's then owner, blacksmith Roy Hanson, proprietor of the Turnpike Forge at Clifton Hampden near Abingdon, Berkshire. An experienced restorer, Stafford Show exhibitor and Goodwood Revival participant with numerous concours awards to his credit, Roy had discovered the Dot lying derelict in a barn near Lechlade near Swindon (see 'as found' photographs on file). By 1998 the machine had been restored and in April of that year featured in an Oxford Mail article describing its use by the BBC in the making of the period-set comedy series, 'The Last Salute' (copy article on file). The Dot has also appeared at the Goodwood Revival meeting alongside some of Roy's other vehicles. In 2004, with retirement looming, Roy put his collection up for sale and the Dot was purchased by the current vendor, since when it has been on museum display. Not currently registered and lacking a Swansea V5C document, the machine is transported to events on a purpose-built trailer, which is included in the sale.
The unique vehicle offered here was produced in 1947 by Manchester-based Dot Motorcycles for evaluation by the Automobile Association, but was found to offer no advantage over the BSA motorcycle combinations then in use and after six months was withdrawn from service. Accompanying documentation includes a letter from the AA's librarian/archivist, Mr R J Flavell, confirming the machine's provenance and stating that the experiment began in January 1948, the Dot being stationed at Pains Hill on the Portsmouth Road (see photographs on file). Powered by a 122cc Villiers two-stroke engine coupled to a three-speed gearbox, the Dot tricycle featured a tubular axle carrying the two front wheels, between which was mounted a large box for carrying tools, fuel, etc, while the rear section was basically that of a conventional motorcycle. The brakes were operated by pedal and in addition there was a handbrake. Cruising speed was a relatively modest 25mph and fuel consumption in the region of 90-100mpg. Dated 30th May 1990, Mr Flavell's letter was addressed to the Dot's then owner, blacksmith Roy Hanson, proprietor of the Turnpike Forge at Clifton Hampden near Abingdon, Berkshire. An experienced restorer, Stafford Show exhibitor and Goodwood Revival participant with numerous concours awards to his credit, Roy had discovered the Dot lying derelict in a barn near Lechlade near Swindon (see 'as found' photographs on file). By 1998 the machine had been restored and in April of that year featured in an Oxford Mail article describing its use by the BBC in the making of the period-set comedy series, 'The Last Salute' (copy article on file). The Dot has also appeared at the Goodwood Revival meeting alongside some of Roy's other vehicles. In 2004, with retirement looming, Roy put his collection up for sale and the Dot was purchased by the current vendor, since when it has been on museum display. Not currently registered and lacking a Swansea V5C document, the machine is transported to events on a purpose-built trailer, which is included in the sale.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
