Starley & Sutton Meteor Sociable ca. 1883 3501-69

Starley & Sutton Meteor Sociable double driver ca. 1883
Starley and Sutton Co. of Meteor Works, West Orchard, Coventry was an early pioneer of the bicycle. The company was founded by John Kemp Starley and William Sutton. Starley had formerly worked with his uncle James Starley. The double driver was a luxury tricycle with two driven wheels that were both fitted with band brakes. The brake was operated via a large handle by the rider, who was seated on the left hand side. The Sociable was available with 40 inch or 46 inch wheels and has rack and pinion steering. The machine we offer has 40 inch wheels and was sold by one of the seven London Depots, “The Royal and Universal Bicycle and Tricycle agency, 5 Lisle Street, Leicester Square, London W” as witnessed by a brass plate on the tricycle. This Meteor double driver has been very well restored and we’re advised she’s a pretty rare machine.