1885 Rudge Central Gear Double Driver Tricycle (Australia)

1885 Rudge Central Gear Double Driver Tricycle

48″ Rear wheels

18″ Front wheel

LENGTH: 69″

WIDTH: 33″

HEIGHT: 48″

Location; Australia (Farren Collection, Melbourne)

Free book included ‘Bicycling Through Time’

This tricycle is believed to have been supplied to a customer in Australia early in its life. Paul Farren found it in unrestored condition in Melbourne, where it was missing its chain, wheel nuts, front wheel rim, some spokes and steering parts.

Paul, with help from Paul Watson, managed to restore it, but they were missing a few vital items – the steering rack, rod and knuckle, and anti-tip rod. I was in regular contact with them and, in June, 2017, I received an email from Paul Farren telling me that there was one in Horsham Museum, and asking if I could go there to take measurements and photos of the final missing items. I did that and they were able to complete its restoration. So I enjoyed seeing it completed after I arrived in Melbourne this week.

It’s a very rare tricycle. The Horsham one is the only other one we know of. This Australian Rudge tricycle has been on display at the Farren Collection private museum since its restoration. It’s in lovely original condition and ready to ride.

 

1886 RUDGE CATALOGUE EXTRACTS