1897 De Dion-Bouton Tricycle: The Most Expensive Motorcycle Ancestor Ever Sold

25 mph and One Brake?! Meet the 1898 De Dion-Bouton 🚨 In 1898, the De Dion-Bouton Tricycle roared down cobbled streets at 25 mph — with just one spoon brake on the front wheel. 😳 This wasn’t just the world’s first successful motorcycle — it was a brass-and-steel revolution that terrified priests, thrilled racers, and redefined personal transport for the Victorian everyman. Buckle up for the tale of a rickety three-wheeler that packed 1.25 hp (later 8!) and made 15,000 people believe speed was worth the risk of spinal fumes and “braking by prayer.” From steam-powered beginnings to gasoline glory, this story has it all — drama, danger, and a Frenchman named Georges going 67 mph on a glorified chair. If you love classic machines with more character than safety, this ride’s for you. 👉 Smash that Like 👍, Subscribe 🔔, and join Timmy Tiny Wheels for more mad motor history! ──────────────────────────────── #ClassicCars, #MotorcycleHistory, #VintageTrikes, #AntiqueVehicles, #WeirdCars, #DeDionBouton, #1898Motorcycle, #ThreeWheelRacer, #VictorianMotorbike, #SteamToGas