3 Wheel Motorcycles And Three-Wheeled Vehicles

Why would grown men want to ride or drive a three-wheeled vehicle when sports cars and motorcycles have evolved to near engineering perfection? One explanation: Mattel's Big Wheel.

The theory goes that Big Wheels were the source of such fun that some men will forever attempt to recapture the boyhood excitement of careening around driveways on three plastic wheels. With many new three-wheeled vehicles on the market, one has to wonder as to the instigation of the sellers, and whether they will find buyers ...

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Models from Morgan also predated the Big Wheel by decades. These Brits produced various three-wheeled vehicles from 1913 through 1952. Many featured lightweight ash wood frames, minimalist bodywork and V-twin engines. The wide-set front wheels and low-slung frames helped enhance cornering stability.

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Fast-forward to the present day, and currently there are a number of fully modern three-wheeled vehicles available. Some bear a resemblance to motorcycles, while others are more car-like. Some just defy description. Each is presented for your motoring pleasure. Or peril.

Reasonably priced at $14,999, the Spyder's wide three-wheeled stance won't tip over at rest, and sophisticated Bosch stability control systems keep the wheels planted when you're rolling. A 106-horsepower V-twin motorcycle engine provides exciting acceleration. Braking performance with ABS is powerful and reassuring.

Another take on the three-wheeler is the Cirbin V13R. Instead of riding on the machine as with the Spyder, the driver and passenger sit in the Cirbin. While this trike is a custom creation, its engine and transmission are sourced from Harley-Davidson. The strong V-twin produces 125 horsepower and the 5-speed transmission includes reverse.

Another boutique vehicle is the Campagna T-Rex. It also uses a two-front/one-rear wheel layout, but tunes the design for maximum stability and ultimate cornering power. Intended for ultra-high performance handling and acceleration, the T-Rex is a perfect tool for a day at the racetrack.

Taking a completely different approach to three-wheeling is Piaggio's little MP3. While the company name isn't immediately familiar to many North Americans, this Italian company is the world's fourth-largest producer of motorcycles and scooters.

The front wheels of the MP3 assume a "stagger" mode when the scooter is parked. This stance keeps the bike upright, so no kickstand is required. The MP3 is on sale now with a starting price of just under $7000.

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