Lot 106: c.2002 Corbin Merlin Roadster

The Corbin Design Studio, located in Hollister, California employed a talented group of artisans under the eponymous family’s direction. During their time in the ‘Alternative Transport Field’ Corbin gained a justified reputation for a number of progressive vehicle designs. Utilising the active research and development resources of Corbin Pacific, Mike Corbin and Corbin Motors to its fullest, Tom Corbin launched this amazing Merlin Roadster in 2002. The concept was to produce a striking 3-wheel street-legal chariot, encompassing all of the advantages of the motorcycle…without any of the disadvantages of an automobile!

Corbin’s conceived range of 3-wheelers included the Merlin Roadster (seen here), and two hard-topped versions. The 70-mph Sparrow prototype coupe received its drive from thirteen 12-volt batteries, and a slightly more conventional Coupe – intended as their Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle – was propelled by Corbin’s own V2/90 engine. Because Merlins qualified as Motorcycles for registration purposes the Corbin ‘fleet’ were classed legal to travel in the Carpool Lane, and may have gone on to enjoy other exemptions and concessions. However, despite this advantageous classification, circumstances were such that full-bore production was never realized. According to our information just nine Merlin Roadsters were sold, powered by Harley-Davidson’s 88-inch twin cam engine, fitted with fuel injection. For this model Corbin claimed 74 ft lbs of torque, developing 75bhp, and driving thru three 40-profile 205/17 tires; indeed, the Merlin must be a unique driving experience. It should be noted that every Merlin was a single passenger vehicle; they were thus targeted at he or she who were sole commuters.

Sales and production figures are limited, but we understand the black and orange-flamed Roadster is one of a trio of early prototypes. When purchasing any ahead-of-its-time prototype the crucial question for a purchaser is to ask how it will look in 10 – 20 years time. The owner has confirmed that the Merlin Roadster prototype is offered in Show Condition, fitted with its custom Corbin seat and stereo sound system. Dare we hope, and for years to come, that this brilliant prototype can be seen by a lengthy, never-ending line of youngsters? With the price of gasoline rising by the day and commuter traffic worsening in equal measure, perhaps the Merlin Roadster was an idea ahead of its time? Corbin’s projectile has ‘Food For Thought’ inscribed on every curve!

Without reserve