The Austin 7 (Baby Austin) was a British economy car built from 1923 to 1939. It utilized a four cylinder flathead 750 cc engine that was the basis for many specials and race cars; including this device cobbled up for the 1938 ISDT motorcycle trials event, exploiting an inexplicable rule that for some reason stated that two driven wheels could count as one, as long as they were less than 1 foot apart. The rear axle was cut down to virtually only the differential.
I'm wondering where a rule like that might come from, in 1931-32 George Brough had built ten double rear wheel, Austin-engined motorcycles.
I've seen pics of vintage hill climb cars (1920's-'30's) with dual rear wheels for more traction. I wonder if there's a connection.
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