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La Française Tricycle from 1898 set for Iconic Auctioneers motorcycle sale at Shuttleworth

• Exceptionally rare 1898 La Française Tricycle, among only three surviving examples worldwide
• Unique opportunity to acquire a historically significant veteran motorcycle
• Sale takes place at Shuttleworth, Bedfordshire, on 20th July 2025

Iconic Auctioneers is offering for sale its oldest-ever motorcycle, a remarkably rare 1898 La Française Tricycle. This extraordinary example of early motoring history will join 140 other motorcycles at Iconic Auctioneers’ Summer Motorcycle Sale at Shuttleworth on Sunday, 20th July.

Built in Paris when motorcycling was at its infancy, it is believed to be one of only three examples of the La Française Tricycle remain in existence today. While the other two surviving tricycles feature the more common De Dion-Bouton engine, this example uniquely houses an extremely scarce France engine, with its precise bore and stroke remaining unknown.

Owned by a highly respected UK-based collector and member of the Vintage Car Club, the tricycle was previously acquired from the renowned Ward brothers, celebrated veteran vehicle enthusiasts. Its forthcoming sale represents an extraordinary chance for collectors and enthusiasts to own an authentic piece of pioneering motorcycling heritage.

Mark Bryan, Motorcycle Manager at Iconic Auctioneers, said: "This La Française Tricycle is a genuine time capsule from the dawn of motorcycling and the earliest motorcycle we have ever offered for sale. To handle such an important and intriguing veteran machine is a privilege. It reflects our commitment to excellence and seeking our rare finds across every level of the motorcycle market."

The Iconic Motorcycle Sale, hosted at the historic Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, will offer viewing opportunities on Saturday, 19th July, ahead of the auction day on Sunday 20th July. Bidders unable to attend in person can participate through online or telephone bidding. The auction will also be streamed live via Iconic Auctioneer’s website and YouTube channel.

To secure your place and register your interest, please contact Iconic Auctioneers at +44 (0) 1926 691 141 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Catalogue entry is £5, admitting two.

For more detailed information about the 1898 La Française Tricycle and the full selection of motorcycles, visit: https://www.iconicauctioneers.com/the-iconic-motorcycle-sale-at-shuttleworth-summer-2025/2025-07-20/ipp-100.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Please visit our upcoming auctions page for a list of our upcoming sales  - click here

Bidders can attend in person, or alternatively you can bid online, by phone or via commission.

 

When the catalogue is ready there will always be a link on our home page to the E-Catalogue. Printed versions are also posted out to vendors and selected buyers and are available to purchase at the auction.

All vehicles are submitted to our internal valuation committee who between them have a wealth of experience in all makes of classic and competition cars as well as Classic and Vintage Motorcycles. The value is agreed between the specialist and the seller of the vehicle in line with current market conditions and the sellers expectations. 

Please register for your preferred method as soon as possible (online, by phone or via commission), at least 48 hours before the sale, to allow sufficient time for registration to be processed. Alternatively, you can register to bid in person when you arrive.

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