1983 Triking Type-1: A Moto Guzzi-Powered Three-Wheeler With Lotus Bloodlines

For enthusiasts who find a conventional sports car too predictable, this 1983 Triking Type-1 offers a compelling alternative. The three-wheeler, currently listed for sale at $15,000, features a distinctive layout with two front wheels, a single rear wheel, and an open cockpit that places the driver directly between them. Located in Chatsworth, New Jersey, the vehicle shows just 1,500 miles on its odometer and comes with a clean title.

The Triking is more than a simple kit car. Company founder Tony Divey was a draftsman and technical artist who spent time working alongside Colin Chapman at Lotus, an experience that influenced the design of this machine. Divey completed the first Triking in 1977, and production began shortly after in Norfolk, England. These vehicles were built for both road touring and competitive events like rallies and hill climbs, giving them a dual-purpose character that sets them apart from standard kit offerings.

Under the hood, or rather exposed ahead of the cockpit, sits a 1,000cc Moto Guzzi V-twin engine paired with a manual transmission. The air-cooled powerplant is mounted in full view, with its cylinder heads, carburetors, and front suspension components all visible. This arrangement promises a raw, direct driving experience. However, the listing does not specify the exact engine model, transmission details, or whether a reverse gear is present. More importantly, there is no confirmation that the Triking currently runs and drives, so interested buyers should verify its mechanical condition and service history before committing.

The exterior features white bodywork with a subtle dark stripe, wire wheels, cycle-style front fenders, chromed headlamps, and a rounded tail section that hides the single rear wheel. Inside, the left-hand-drive cockpit is trimmed in black and includes twin windscreens, a wood-look dashboard, toggle switches, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a centrally mounted shifter. The overall presentation suggests a machine that prioritizes character over convention.

A Triking is unlikely to serve as anyone’s primary vehicle, but that misses the point entirely. It delivers a unique cyclecar experience, combining the soundtrack of an Italian motorcycle with the charm of a British sports car. For those who value individuality and are prepared for the upkeep such a machine demands, this Moto Guzzi-powered three-wheeler presents a genuine alternative to more familiar options like a Morgan.