1903 De Dion-Bouton Tricycle Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around De Dion-Bouton's allround motorcycle platform, the 1903 De Dion-Bouton Tricycle relies on a 955 cc (58.3 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 8 HP (5.8 kW) at 1,800 rpm. With a specific output of 8.4 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Tricycle measures 88 kg (194 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.09 HP/kg (11 kg per horsepower).
Within MotoLibrary's De Dion-Bouton archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1902 to 1904, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
8.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.09 HP/kg (11 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement955.0 ccm (58.27 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power8.0 HP (5.8 kW)) @ 1800 RPM
Bore x Stroke100.0 x 120.0 mm (3.9 x 4.7 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Surface carburator
CoolingAir
Transmission
ClutchDirect drive via a pair of gears from the motor directly to the rear axle
