Frankly this is as much of a recommendation as a review. I just recently got my sticky paws on a copy of Michael Edwards' The Tricycle Book and as it says on the tin the book covers early motor tricycles from 1895 to 1902. This volume covers French machines only, there is a part two on the way on the subject of British made tricycles and I am genuinely very much looking forward to it.
The Tricycle Book definitely falls into the 'boutique book' category and at GBP 80 plus postage represents a considerable outlay. However once you have seen it you have to concede that it is good value, the format is large and the publication luxurious. There are 364 pages and the book is very well illustrated mainly with photographs from the period. That Mr Edwards has managed to find quite so many early images is admirable, the majority of which are completely fresh to my eyes (and I do spend possibly more time than is healthy nerding away at early vehicles...)
Without doubt an authoritative work on the subject The Tricycle Book should be of interest to anyone with more than a passing interest in early vehicles. The righteous thing to do as ever is to buy direct from the author: https://surrendenpress.co.uk/the-tricycle-book-1896-1902
What an amazing find. Startling to realize this format of vehicle might once have been so popular that enough material would exist for a book. I wonder if Royal Enfield will figure in the English version?
ReplyDeleteTricycles make more sense when you consider that roads of the time were often muddy and uneven and engines were rather heavy. Of course motorcycles soon superseded them but for a short while three wheels ruled! I would be rather surprised if Royal Enfield did not feature in part two.
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