VETERAN CAR GUIDE
VETERAN CYCLE & MOTORCYCLE GUIDE
In 2017 , we invited veteran cycles to participate in the Run , followed in 2018 by the introduction of their motorised counterpart – the veteran motorcycle . This year , we hope to see a varied selection of cycles and motorcycles on the route . Keep your eyes peeled for some of the more notable marques .
Humber Standard 1901 Thomas Humber was a pioneer of bicycle manufacture who started making velocipedes in the late 1860s in Nottingham and his company grew into one of the largest bicycle makers of the Victorian period . It had a reputation for high quality and innovation with its “ Beeston ” models being regarded as the elite machines ridden by Royalty and titled class during the 1890s “ Society Boom ”. The 1901 Standard model was made in Coventry and although lacking some of the refinements of the range topping “ Beeston ” models , represented very good value for money .
Two Ordinary Cycles from c . 1881 .
CYCLES
Star Cycle Co Ltd , Pneumatic-tyred Safety Pneumatic tyres were the great novelty affecting bicycle design from 1890 onwards , and by improving speed and comfort did a great deal to make cycling popular rather than a recreational activity enjoyed by a few enthusiasts . The Star Cycle Co Ltd of Wolverhampton ’ s example has an upward-sloping top tube and pneumatic tyres , with a fixed wheel and a single spoon-type brake .
Centaur X Frame The Centaur Bicycle Co was established by Edmund Mushing and George Gilbert in 1876 . They manufactured bicycles and tricycles and from the 1890s focused on reducing the weight of bicycles . The X-frame model called “ the Featherweight ” was the top of its product range from 1900 and continued being made after the company was taken over by Humber Ltd in 1910 .
Lea and Francis 1901 Initially formed as the Lea Cycle Co in Coventry in 1895 it became Lea and Francis Ltd in the following year being a partnership of RH Lea and GI Francis . They targeted the high-price bicycle market during the 1890s boom and retained the highest reputation for bicycles produced during the Edwardian era up to 1914 .
Ordinary 1885 The parts for a bicycle could be bought from the many specialist suppliers that grew up particularly around the West Midlands region and smaller makers could be found all over the UK catering for local cyclists . Many of these machines are often difficult to identify . It is thought that this particular machine might have been produced by the Coventry Cycle Co Ltd which was formed in 1883 , but more evidence is needed to authenticate it .
Peugeot 1886 Already established as a business engaged in foundry work in 1810 , it became involved in bicycle manufacture from 1882 onwards . The company made good quality bicycles for the home market and export and grew to be one of France ’ s major manufacturers of bicycles and later motor cars . This machine is very finely made and represents cycle manufacture at the peak of the high-wheel bicycle era .
36 The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run