Okay, so I have to admit, I don’t know a ton about cars, trucks or bikes… but I know what I like when I see it, and I LOVE this 1897 Lèon Bollèe Voiturette! When I like something, I have to learn all about it. So here we go:

The first “Voiturette” was built by Lèon Bollèe in 1886. This motorized tricycle was powered by a horizontal single-cylinder engine that displaced 882 cubic centimetres and achieved 3hp at 800 noisy revolutions per minute. It produced a top speed of 27 miles per hour and featured a belt drive, arm and link steering. What is so interesting about this vehicle is that the driver steered with their right hand, while the left hand operated a versatile lever that changed gears, applied the brake, or engaged the driving belt. Also, the driving arrangement places the driver safely behind the passenger (the complete opposite of most driving services today!)

Several hundred were made for Lèon Bollèe by Hurtu & Diligeon, but only the prototypes were made at the Le Mans Factory. This tandem tricar was built in 1897 and no more than a handful are known to exist. It will be on display at Golden Tree Jewelers until Father’s Day, so please pop by and take a look, it is a real eye-catcher!