Clark Scamp

By Ken Mettam

I enjoyed J S Lycett's article on the Clark Scamp. I too own one of these pretty machines and was wondering if I should restore it or not. The gold lining put me off and I have kept it in 'as found' condition. I have an original Scamp Rider's Manual and will be sending a photocopy of this to the club library.

I wrote to a member of staff who was involved in the Scamp production and he told me the following:

The Scamp project started in 1967 as a new departure from making masts for yachts.
The Scamp could not compete with the new Japanese machines that were coming onto the British market.
Because of financial difficulties, Lloyds Bank appointed a Receiver/Manager in 1968.
As a result of this there was a 50% reduction in staff and the complete disposal of almost all the finished machines and components; about 3,000 to 4,000 were made.
The engine was Clark designed and manufactured.
The cycle frame was made by the CWS in Birmingham and was similar to their Co-op Commuter bike.
No spares were kept by Clarks, who now trade as CMTS, Clark Masts (Technical Services) Ltd.

First published - February 1997

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