This is a totally new concept, a trike that is safe and which gives you independence and the freedom of the road Carl Brunning, Conquest owner

Although it was in the planning for four years, Mr Martin could always see the finished product in his mind's eye.

"I have to admit I'm so proud of it because it's come out just as I visualised it."

The 'trike' will cost £18,500 - about the same as a new family car - and Mr Martin hopes it will appeal to former bikers who are no longer able to climb into the saddle, as well as aspiring disabled riders.

The 1150cc version will accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.6 seconds and has a top speed of 85mph.

But Mr Martin says the one he drove on a test track topped 100mph and was "as steady as a rock".

Freedom of the road

The first person to buy a Conquest is former climber, Carl Brunning from East Yorkshire.

Before his climbing accident, Mr Brunning was a keen motorcyclist and he says he cannot wait to start riding his new machine.

"This is a totally new concept, a trike that is safe and which gives you independence and the freedom of the road," he said.

Mr Brunning's only other experience of motorcycling after his accident was as a side-car passenger.

He says with the Conquest he feels like an integral part of the machine.

The manufacturers, Martin Conquest Ltd, have begun negotiations with Motability, the organisation that provides lease vehicles for disabled people.

If the Conquest is accepted, it could be become available to thousands of disabled people who are eligible for assistance from the scheme.