DEFEND YOUR RIDE: Riccardo At The Piccolo Pavilion

Q: This is a pretty cool car you have. Tell us about it.

A: A company called Triking built it in Marlingford in the county of Norwich in England. Triking is still in business and make about five cars a year. In a 30 year production run, it's not known exactly how many they've built, but it's assumed to be around 150 to 160. No one really knows.

Q: What sort of motor does this vehicle have?

A: The Triking is based on a Moto Guzzi motorcycle–powertrain and drivetrain. Mine uses a G5 motor, 1,000cc air-cooled v-twin. Moto Guzzi's use a shaft drive instead of a chain, which makes it ideal for this application.

Q: So of the 150 to 160 Trikings created, do you know which one yours is?

A: Mine is, I think, number 36 of the production run. They are pretty similar today, not exactly the same, just slightly longer and the bodywork is a little bit different. Some other things are different, but they are mostly similar.

Q: What's this bad boy's main use?

A: Fun.

Q: Could you tell us about a fun trip you've taken in your Triking?

A: When I bought the car, I drove it up from Los Angeles. My dad was the original owner, and had bought it new in '86 or so, and had it for about eight or nine years. Then [he] sold it when I was in college and eight years later, I called the guy he had sold it to and I asked, "Do you still have it?" The man said, "Yes I do." I said, "Great! Let me know if you ever want to sell it. I'd be interested." He said, "Well I'll sell it to you right now. My wife told me it's time to clear out the garage. I'm not using it as much as I use to. I'd be happy for it to go back to your family." So we agreed on a deal over the phone. My dad and I jumped on a flight next day. We signed the pink slip right on the back of the car. Then my dad and I drove the Triking home from Los Angeles. That was one of the many great trips I've had in the Triking!

Q: That's such a great story. Are there any rules in your car?

A: I have two boys that I like to take around in it. We have some safety rules. Number one is never touch the exhaust pipes that run either side along the car. They can get hot enough to burn your leg.

Q: If your car had a human emotion, what would it be and why?

A: It would be a big smile and just happy. The Triking makes everyone happy. It puts no one off. Old people get a kick out of it. Kids go wild. It's a crowd pleaser.

Q: Is there anything else we should know about your car?

A: It requires a lot of work. Things are always wearing out, or breaking, or needing to be repaired or replaced. I have an ongoing list of probably 10 different things that I know need to get done at some point or another. You have to like twiddling with it in the garage. If you can live without a roof, windows, doors, heat, air conditioning, air bags, radio, reverse, and cup holders, then it is great!