A New 5-cwt. Parcelcar
Page 53
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
The Latest Model of the James Threewheeler is Available with Several Types of Body
fliih of the oldest concerns in the cycle and motorcycle trade, the James Cycle Co., Ltd., of Greet, Birmingham, has recently introduced a new light three-wheeler designed specifically for commercial purposes; it is available with various types of body. Although for some time the company has produced parcelcars, the new Samson Han dyvan is more robust and has a larger engine than its predecessors.
For some years the company has been one of the few motorcycle manufacturers producing a 500 c.c. twin-cylinder machine and the power unit of the Samson Handyvan is of this type. It has two air-cooled cylinders in V formation and these embody side valves, The cylinder heads are readily detachable and the valve stems and springs are enclosed.
Lubrication is effected automatically, the oil being carried In a separate tank which' holds four pints. An unusual feature for this type of engine is that cast-iron pistons are fitted.
Although rated at 5 h.p. it is stated that the engine actually develops 1.6 b.h.p., so_that there is an ample reserve. Petrol, of which 2 gallons is carried in a welded-steel tank, is consumed at the rate of a gallon for 60 or 70 miles, mid a gallon of lubricating oil lasts for 1,000 miles.
From the engine, a 'Hans Renold chain transmits the power to a multi-plate metal clutch mounted on the threespeed gearbox with which is incorporated a kick-starter. A second chain connects* the gearbox to a substantial countershaft carried on roller bearings and there is a final chain drive to the rear axle.
This component consists of a solid high-tensile-steel shaft carried in a steel casing. The near-side wheel is rigidly attached to the driving shaft, but the off-side wheel is freely mounted, thus removing any need for differential gear.
Following general motorcycle practice, the frame is of tubular construction and a pair of stout spring forks attends to the steering and the suspension at the front. At the rear the frame is rigid, but the body is mounted on four springs—two quarter-elliptics at the rear and, at the front, two coil springs carried in tubular casings which form the shackles.
Goodyear 26-in. by 3.25-in. tyres are employed and each wheel carries an internal-expanding brake, the rear brakes
being compensated and operable either by pedal or by a lever, which is provided with a ratchet for use when the machine is parked. The front brake is controlled independently by means of a lever mounted on the handlebars. A large, flexible, spring saddle carries the driver and a "cab" is provided for him. This is built upon a light frame and incorporates a glass windscreen. Amongst the various types of standard body is a light box with double doors at the buck; this has a capacity of about 24 cubic ft. A van with a removable tarpaulin hood is also available for light but bulky articles, its capacity being approximately 32 cubic ft.
Loads up to 5 cwt. can be carried in either model, and the price 9s £86, this including complete equipment.