Friend of mine had one back in England in the 70's or 80's..
198cc Sachs single cylinder, two stroke motor.. Early ones were 175cc.. And yes, 4 forward or 4 reverse... Lever in the cockpit to move the stator plate that held the contact breaker to move the timing "Before or after TDC"
Driving at speed that close to the ground was hairy to say the least.. :-)..
Now look up Peel P50..
Once you have, the see if you can see..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJfSS0ZXYdo
British Top Gear program test drove one.. with the normal consequences..
Cheers..
Pete