Around 1949, Simplex began manufacturing what they referred to as "trucks". These were Servi-Cycles with a modified rear frame, allowing two rear wheels and a cargo box to be installed. The first trucks were advertised as "Fifth-ton" models, referring to the load-carrying capacity. In 1955, the load capacity was increased and they were referred to as "Quarter-ton" trucks. The first models incorporated the rocker clutch design used on the Servi-Cycles. When the Simplex Automatic cycles were introduced, the trucks adopted the Automatic as well.



Drive mechanisms to the rear wheels also varied during production. Early models used a solid axle jackshaft, which made turning more difficult. One belt drove the jackshaft from the intermediate pulley, and the rear wheels were each driven by a belt from the jackshaft. These models also had the rear wheel brake hub on the outside of the wheel, which made wheel removal and servicing difficult. Later Quarter-ton models had this layout reversed, so that the brake hub was placed on the inner side of the wheel hub, allowing for easier wheel removal.



Standard colors for the Truck were Maroon, White, or Safety Yellow, with "special colors for $10 additional". Several models were offered, and were listed as:

Two of the early Fifth-Ton trucks exist with what appears to be original spring-supported plywood boxes. In 1953 Simplex introduced a new metal box which had marine grade plywood lining the top and bottom. The new steel boxes were larger, measuring 32" wide, 27" long and 20 3/4" deep. Along with the steel box, the rear fenders were attached to the box instead of to the rear wheels, so it was no longer necessary to remove the fenders in order to remove the wheels. Another option discussed in the advertising literature is the "Personnel Box", which provided a seat, footrest and hand holds for two additional passengers.



In 1957, a new "Model 70" Motorscooter Truck was advertised to dealers. This model was based on the new Simplex Automatic Scooter, and had interchangeable front and rear solid wheels. A spare wheel and tire was mounted to the rear box, and an optional two-passenger cushion and handrail kit was again offered. It has been said that only two of these were ever built, and it was never put into production.

No accurate number is available, but it is estimated that Simplex built about 100 Trucks over the years. About fifteen of these Trucks are known to exist today, making it a fairly rare and desirable collectible. If you have or know of a truck, please send a photo and serial number (if available) or any other available information to this site so that we may keep accurate records of those in existence.

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