1900 Orient Autogo

The Waltham Manufacturing Company of Waltham, MA, one of America's largest bicycle makers, started making powered vehicles under the Orient brand in 1898. They initially concentrated on steam-power but experimented with 2, 3, and 4-wheeled concepts. The motorized tricycle was initially developed in France in the 1890s and became the rage for wealthy Parisian gentlemen. Waltham executive Charles Metz began to produce them in the U.S. as the Orient Autogo.

In 1899, Metz hired Albert Champion, a famous French bicycle racer, to race Orient cycles. Champion worked on improving the engine's 'sparking' plugs and eventually formed the Champion Spark Plug Company. After a dispute with his investors, he moved to Flint, Michigan, and formed the AC (his initials) Spark Plug Company.

The Orient Autogo tricycle sold for $450 with either an Aster or DeDion motor. By removing the front wheel, the $150 Forecar Kit was added, forming a quadricycle that accommodated a passenger.