Description
1927 Morgan Aerocycle in good sound running condition. Bought in May 2018 from a bereavement sale the car came with little known history. It is believed that it was rebuilt from a Family model in the 1980s.
The bodywork has been built and finished to a high standard with a good paint finish and pretty detailing.
The 998cc JAP Vee twin is the side valve, water cooled variant which has run reliably and sweetly throughout my ownership. It has a total loss oil system where the control on the dashboard is adjusted to release one drip of oil every few seconds which passes down a copper tube and into the base of one cylinder from where it lubricates the engine internals. The starting handle engages in the cross shaft and is used in conjunction with a decompression lever. Ignition advance, air control and throttle are all mounted on the steering wheel.
This model has a 2 speed drive, consisting of 2 chain drives to the rear wheel engaged by a dog clutch operated by a hand lever on the right side of the cockpit (and no reverse gear.)
The front wheels are braked by a lever in the centre of the cockpit whth a ratchet to act as a handbrake.
Conventional clutch pedal and rear brake operating a leather belt on the rear wheel brake drum.
In my ownership I have had the rear wheel spokes retightened and a new tyre and tube fitted. There is scope for further improvements to the car should a future owner desire. The Morgan 3 wheelers have a unique character and are not for the faint hearted. The controls are unusual but once mastered lead to a rewarding driving experience.
Originally classed as a motorcycle with road tax, drivers licence and insurance to match they became popular in their day as an economical means of transport. In their higher powered versions the Morgan 3 wheelers were particularly competitive in motorsport, easily challenging the heavier 4 wheeled competition.
There is an active and enthusiastic 3 Morgan Wheeler Club which hosts a wealth of knowledge on these charismatic machines.
I have enjoyed the car for the last 7 years going to shows, events and local runs but the decision has been made to reduce our collection of old cars and aeroplanes to a more manageable size, so this one is offered for sale.
