of 7 Pall Mall, London SW.
1919 A machine, on similar lines so far as the layout is concerned, and called La Rapide, is about to be placed on the market by Mr. H. Jordan, of 7, Pall Mall, London. It is to be built in quantity and marketed at £200. As in the Landini, a motor cycle power unit is located on the right side running board. Between the two special wings is a compartment in which is placed an 8 J.A.P. air-cooled twin engine driving through a chain to a three-speed Sturmey Archer gear box and clutch, and thence by belt to the right-hand rear wheel. The front mudguard protects the engine and gear box, but at the side between the mudguard and the body there is a cowl which directs the air on to the engine cylinders, similar cowling allowing it to escape at the rear.
Steering is direct, and the chassis, composed of angle iron, has one forward and one rear cross-member, being mounted both at the front and the rear on quarter-elliptic springs.
We are informed that there will be a considerable number of modifications to the machine before it is ready for quantity production; for instance, the type of engine will be altered, a three-speed and reverse gear box of a different design will be fitted. Whatever the engine, however, an extension of the crankshaft will be brought under the driving compartment in order that a rack and pinion hand starting gear may be fitted, while on the same shaft a pulley will be placed to drive the dynamo, supplying current to the accumulators for two powerful side lamps and one tail lamp. The price mentioned includes these accessories.
There is a certain amount of experimental work to be carried out concerning braking systems and such minor points. At present internal expanding brakes are fitted to each rear wheel separately, operated by hand and foot respectively. The side-by-side seats are quite comfortable, and the body is equipped with the usual instrument board, hood, and screen. At the back of the seats is a large compartment to hold a suit case, spare petrol and oil tins, while below one running board there is a large tool locker. [1]
1920 Cyclecar produced with 8 h.p. J.A.P. engine
See Also
Sources of Information
- ↑ The Motor Cycle of 11th December 1919
- From The Motor Cycle of 11th December 1919.