No 60mph doubles
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by the Technical Editor 11 After our successful trials with Reed Transport, Crane Fruehauf and Volvo, first with a 40mph limit, then with one of 50mph, we had hoped to test the operating viability when governed by the same speed regulations as a normal 32-ton artic.
However, the men from the Ministry have said 'No.' In the words of the official notification: "This application has been given serious consideration, but we regret to tell you that we cannot agree to issuing an order for this trial at such a speed.
"The complexity of these road trials is such that we are not prepared to allow an advance on 50mph.
"An older vehicle, with a less skilful driver, might well become unstable at 60mph."
While appreciating the efforts of the DTp in ensuring that the safety aspect of a doubles combination is satisfactory, we feel, at CM, that a more valid engineering reason could have been given for the refusal.
After all, the last comment of the Dip could apply to anything from a 50cc moped upwards.