Unique ONES - Motorized vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes the most unexpected ones can be the most intriguing. One such creation is the Merlin Roadster Alpha Car, a three-wheeled motorcycle with a striking design that immediately catches the eye. It was a fresh discovery for many enthusiasts, often spotted on platforms like Pinterest, where its unique shape and appeal quickly gained attention. Made by Corbin Motors, an American auto manufacturer, the Merlin Roadster isn’t just any trike; it has a story deeply rooted in the history of motorcycle innovation.
The Merlin Roadster Alpha Car built by Corbin Motors is promised to be the coolest ever single passenger vehicle ever, unfortunately never took into the production lines with only 9 to 20 units ever been made. (Picture from: Corbin)
Corbin Motors began as a company that specialized in handcrafted motorcycle saddles, founded by Mike Corbin and his son, Tom Corbin, back in 1968. Starting out with simple accessories for motorcycles, the company gradually expanded its focus, developing and producing its own motorized vehicles. Their journey from crafting seats to creating entire vehicles is a testament to the evolution of motorcycle engineering and design. Over the years, Corbin Motors transitioned from a small saddle manufacturer into a key player in the world of three-wheelers, bringing innovative designs to the market.
The Merlin Roadster was in testing and development for production at Corbin Motors in the time right before the company had financial difficulties in the 2003. (Picture from: Corbin)
By the turn of the millennium, Corbin Motors had developed a lineup of three-wheeled vehicles that captured the imagination of many. Their offerings included the Corbin Sparrow and the Merlin, both available in Roadster and Coupe styles. While the Sparrow focused on being an electric-powered trike, balancing fun and functionality, the Merlin models, especially the Roadster, were built purely for enjoyment. With a powerful Harley-Davidson V-twin engine, the Merlin was designed to deliver both excitement and speed, a perfect combination for those who love the thrill of the open road.
These two non-running models were the design prototypes of the coupe version of the Merlin, and never been reach into the production lines due to
the company had financial difficulties
in the 2003. (Picture from: Corbin)
Despite its forward-thinking designs, Corbin Motors faced significant financial difficulties in the early 2000s. After producing around 300 units of the Sparrow, the company declared bankruptcy in 2003, bringing an abrupt halt to production. However, hope was rekindled in 2005 when Dana Myers, an Ohio businessman, bought the company’s assets, forming Myers Motors and reviving the Sparrow production line. But the Merlin Roadster project didn’t see the same resurrection, making the few units produced even more special.
The Merlin Roadster Alpha Car is a stylish and high performance front wheel drive trike design coupled with a single unique scissor door. (Picture from: Leosgarage)
The Merlin Roadster itself is a fascinating piece of automotive design. Co-designed by Mike Corbin and the famous automotive designer Don Varner, it features an open-top single-seater design. The body is made from fiberglass panels, which are mounted on a sturdy tubular steel frame. A single scissor door adds to its unique appearance, and the rider’s compartment is spacious, offering tilt steering, a fully equipped dashboard, and weather-resistant seating. It’s clear that comfort and style were both top priorities in the design process.
The Merlin Roadster Alpha Car has a generous open rider compartment with tilt steering, dashboard and all weather seating. (Picture from: RonSusser)
Beneath its stylish exterior, the Merlin Roadster packs a punch. Powered by a Harley-Davidson V-twin engine, the Roadster’s 66 horsepower is sent to the two front wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox, complete with reverse capability. With this setup, the trike can reach speeds of up to 120 mph, making it a performance-focused vehicle that combines the freedom of a motorcycle with the stability of a trike. Corbin Motors only produced between 9 and 20 units of the Merlin Roadster before discontinuing the project in 2003, adding to its allure as a rare collector’s item.
An inside look at the Merlin Roadster's tubular frame and chassis, coupled with the HD motor to transmits the power to the front wheels through a four speed Volkswagon transaxle. (Picture from: Corbin)
Owning a Merlin Roadster today is not just about owning a unique vehicle; it's about experiencing a rare piece of automotive history. This three-wheeler offers an extraordinary driving experience, blending power, speed, and the exhilaration of open-road motorcycling. With prices now reaching around $40,000, the Merlin Roadster has become a coveted vehicle for those who appreciate its distinctive charm and performance.
Owning a Merlin Roadster today is not just about owning a unique vehicle; it's about experiencing a rare piece of automotive history. This three-wheeler offers an extraordinary driving experience, blending power, speed, and the exhilaration of open-road motorcycling. With prices now reaching around $40,000, the Merlin Roadster has become a coveted vehicle for those who appreciate its distinctive charm and performance.
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