Ner-a-Car 2¾hp

Key facts

Year

1921
Country

Great Britain
Capacity

285cc
Cylinders

1
Performance

35mph
Price new

£70
Owner

National Motor Museum Trust
Manufacturer

Sheffield Simplex Ltd

One of a number of vehicles built over the years aimed at bridging the gap between motorcycles and cars. The Ner-a-Car’s unusual look owed much to car design, with a low-slung monocoque chassis and hub centre steering. The low centre of gravity made it easy to ride and the large mudguards helped to protect against the weather and road dirt. The makers boasted there was no need for special clothing and in later years comfort was improved with bucket seats. It appealed to a different sort of customer compared with traditional motorcycles.

The Ner-a-Car was designed in the USA by Carl Neracher. The name was a pun on his surname and the car-like features of the bike. Sheffield Simplex acquired the British manufacturing rights, building 6,500 between 1921 and 1927. US production ended in 1928.