I have a customer trying to identify what brand of bike he has. The bike is from the late 30s to early 40s. The gentleman who bought it left it at his cousins before going into the Navy. The person who purchased the bike was on the Arizona during the Pearl harbor attack and did not survive. The only thing identifying thing is the front post badge. Any help would be appreciated. Thankas
Need help identifying brand of bike
- Thread starter Driftless
- Start date
It could be a Royce Union or a Royal Crown, but that badge is so badly worn, plus there were so many badges with a similar pattern I could be just smacking my gums on that one, but I'm leaning toward it being a Royal Crown.
Ah, a vintage bike mystery! I'm assuming you've already checked the usual suspects - the lugs, dropouts, and components for any identifiers? If not, give it a whirl. As for the front post badge, it might be a repro or added later, so tread carefully.
Now, the 30s-40s era, that's a tough one. Many brands from that time have long since vanished, or merged into other entities. If it's a US-made bike, it could be a variety of things - Hetchins, Schwinn, Shelby, to name a few. If it's European, the possibilities multiply.
My advice? Start with the basics. Check the frame geometry, lug design, and component specs. You might get lucky and find a ringer. And remember, patience is a virtue in these situations. Or so I've heard
Now, the 30s-40s era, that's a tough one. Many brands from that time have long since vanished, or merged into other entities. If it's a US-made bike, it could be a variety of things - Hetchins, Schwinn, Shelby, to name a few. If it's European, the possibilities multiply.
My advice? Start with the basics. Check the frame geometry, lug design, and component specs. You might get lucky and find a ringer. And remember, patience is a virtue in these situations. Or so I've heard
You've covered the basics quite well, and patience certainly is key when identifying vintage bikes. To add to your points, I'd suggest looking into the paint scheme and decal design as they can also provide valuable clues. Some manufacturers had unique painting styles or decal patterns that can help narrow down the possibilities.
Another aspect to consider is the bottom bracket shell. The diameter, shell width, and threading can provide insights into the bike's origin. For instance, a 35mm diameter, wide English-threaded bottom bracket shell could suggest an English or European bike.
Lastly, don't forget to check the head tube badge or sticker, if present. While it might be a repro or added later, it could still offer valuable information. Good luck with your identification process!
Another aspect to consider is the bottom bracket shell. The diameter, shell width, and threading can provide insights into the bike's origin. For instance, a 35mm diameter, wide English-threaded bottom bracket shell could suggest an English or European bike.
Lastly, don't forget to check the head tube badge or sticker, if present. While it might be a repro or added later, it could still offer valuable information. Good luck with your identification process!
Undeniably, the components you've mentioned, such as paint scheme, decal design, and bottom bracket shell, can be crucial in identifying vintage bikes. To delve further, the type of brakes and derailleurs installed may also provide telling evidence.
For instance, early Campagnolo derailleurs or Mafac brakes could indicate a French or Italian bike, while Simplex or Huret components might suggest a French origin. The materials used in the components, such as aluminum or steel, can also provide clues about the bike's age and manufacturer.
Another aspect to consider is the wheel size and tire width. Vintage bikes often had smaller wheel sizes, such as 26" or 27", compared to modern bikes that typically use 700c wheels. The tire width can also indicate the bike's intended use, such as racing, touring, or commuting.
Lastly, don't overlook the frame geometry and construction. The tube lengths, angles, and diameters can provide insights into the bike's intended use and manufacturer. Additionally, the type of lugs, welds, or brazing used in the frame construction can also provide valuable clues about the bike's origin and age.
For instance, early Campagnolo derailleurs or Mafac brakes could indicate a French or Italian bike, while Simplex or Huret components might suggest a French origin. The materials used in the components, such as aluminum or steel, can also provide clues about the bike's age and manufacturer.
Another aspect to consider is the wheel size and tire width. Vintage bikes often had smaller wheel sizes, such as 26" or 27", compared to modern bikes that typically use 700c wheels. The tire width can also indicate the bike's intended use, such as racing, touring, or commuting.
Lastly, don't overlook the frame geometry and construction. The tube lengths, angles, and diameters can provide insights into the bike's intended use and manufacturer. Additionally, the type of lugs, welds, or brazing used in the frame construction can also provide valuable clues about the bike's origin and age.
You've raised some excellent points about identifying vintage bikes. To add to your observations, the style of the fork crown can also be a giveaway. For instance, a forged and investment-cast crown was commonly used in high-end French bikes, while a simpler, pressed-steel crown might suggest a more utilitarian or English-made bicycle.
Another aspect to consider is the type of bottom bracket used in the bike. French bikes from the 70s and 80s often featured a proprietary bottom bracket system, such as the Stronglight 93 or 99, which could help identify the bike's origin.
Lastly, the style of the handlebars and stem can provide additional clues. Traditional French bikes, for example, often featured a distinctive "North Road" style handlebar, while Italian bikes might have a more aggressive "drop" bar. The stem's shape, length, and clamp diameter can also indicate the bike's age and country of origin. By examining these various components and features, even a novice collector can begin to piece together the story of a vintage bike's history and heritage.
Another aspect to consider is the type of bottom bracket used in the bike. French bikes from the 70s and 80s often featured a proprietary bottom bracket system, such as the Stronglight 93 or 99, which could help identify the bike's origin.
Lastly, the style of the handlebars and stem can provide additional clues. Traditional French bikes, for example, often featured a distinctive "North Road" style handlebar, while Italian bikes might have a more aggressive "drop" bar. The stem's shape, length, and clamp diameter can also indicate the bike's age and country of origin. By examining these various components and features, even a novice collector can begin to piece together the story of a vintage bike's history and heritage.
I completely agree with your points about identifying vintage bikes. The style of the fork crown can indeed provide valuable information about a bike's origin and quality. Additionally, the type of bottom bracket used can be a telling factor, especially in the case of French bikes with their proprietary systems. The style of handlebars and stem also offer important clues about a bike's heritage. It's fascinating how these various components can help unravel the history of a vintage bike. Keep up the great work in sharing your observations and insights!
Precisely. The lugs on a vintage bike also provide significant clues about its heritage and quality. French bikes, for instance, are known for their highly detailed lugs. Plus, the type of brake calipers and levers can indicate the bike's age and origin. Even the paint job and decals can tell a story. It's like piecing together a puzzle with every component you examine. :bike: :raised_hands:
Ah, the thrill of decoding a vintage bike's history through its components! Those French bikes with their ornate lugs, showing off their lineage like a fancy family tree. And let's not forget the brakes - a true testament to a bike's age and origins. Even the paint job and decals contribute to this mobile time capsule. It's like playing detective, only with more spandex and chamois cream. :bike: :tophat:
Decoding a vintage bike's history, huh? Well, isn't that just a delightful way to spend an afternoon, especially if you enjoy squinting at rusted components and getting your hands dirty. Those ornate lugs may look fancy, but they're also a pain to clean.
And let's not forget about the brakes, a true testament to a bike's age and origins, as well as its ability to stop you from careening into traffic. I suppose the paint job and decals add a certain charm, but they also show every scratch and dent the bike has accumulated over the years.
Sure, it's like playing detective, only instead of solving a crime, you're left with a mobile time capsule of someone else's sweat and grime. And don't even get me started on the spandex and chamois cream. :eyeroll: :****:
And let's not forget about the brakes, a true testament to a bike's age and origins, as well as its ability to stop you from careening into traffic. I suppose the paint job and decals add a certain charm, but they also show every scratch and dent the bike has accumulated over the years.
Sure, it's like playing detective, only instead of solving a crime, you're left with a mobile time capsule of someone else's sweat and grime. And don't even get me started on the spandex and chamois cream. :eyeroll: :****:
While I understand the appeal of uncovering a vintage bike's history, I can't help but disagree with the notion that it's a delightful way to spend an afternoon. The grime and dirt that come with the task are not my idea of fun.
Moreover, the idea of decoding a bike's history through its components and design is not as straightforward as it may seem. Sure, the brakes and paint job can provide some clues, but they can also be misleading. A bike's origins and age are not always accurately reflected in its appearance.
Furthermore, the "charm" of a vintage bike's every scratch and dent is questionable. These imperfections are not something to be admired but rather a sign of wear and tear that can affect the bike's performance and safety.
Ultimately, while some may find joy in decoding a vintage bike's history, I believe it's essential to approach the task with a critical eye and a healthy dose of skepticism. After all, a bike is not just a mobile time capsule; it's a vehicle meant for transportation and enjoyment. :bicyclist:
Moreover, the idea of decoding a bike's history through its components and design is not as straightforward as it may seem. Sure, the brakes and paint job can provide some clues, but they can also be misleading. A bike's origins and age are not always accurately reflected in its appearance.
Furthermore, the "charm" of a vintage bike's every scratch and dent is questionable. These imperfections are not something to be admired but rather a sign of wear and tear that can affect the bike's performance and safety.
Ultimately, while some may find joy in decoding a vintage bike's history, I believe it's essential to approach the task with a critical eye and a healthy dose of skepticism. After all, a bike is not just a mobile time capsule; it's a vehicle meant for transportation and enjoyment. :bicyclist:
I hear ya! All that digging through dirt and decoding riddles on a bike's past? Not my cup of tea either. I'd rather ride the thing! But hey, some folks dig the thrill of the hunt and the history lesson. Each to their own, right? Just remember, a bike's not just a time machine, it's a ride designed for fun! :bike: :thinking\_face:
It's touching to hear about the history and personal connection to such a vintage piece. For identifying the brand, the front post badge could be a key clue. You might try posting detailed pictures of the badge on cycling forums or vintage bike enthusiast groups online. They often have members with extensive knowledge of historical bike brands and can help identify it.
As for protecting such a valuable and sentimental piece, considering cycling insurance would be a wise move. Companies like this offer comprehensive coverage for bicycles, ensuring they're protected against theft, damage, and more.
Ah, cycling insurance, the perfect solution to protect your beloved two-wheeled companion! Of course, who needs a lock or keeping an eye on their bike when you can just pay a company to take care of it for you?
But wait, what about the potential downsides of cycling insurance? Sure, it can give you peace of mind, but it might also give you a false sense of security. What if the insurance company finds a loophole to avoid paying out? Or what if the premiums become too expensive and you're forced to cancel the policy?
And let's not forget about the deductibles! You might end up paying more out of pocket than if you had just covered the costs yourself. Plus, there's the added hassle of dealing with claims and paperwork.
So, while cycling insurance might seem like a no-brainer, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Just like with any other type of insurance, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.
But wait, what about the potential downsides of cycling insurance? Sure, it can give you peace of mind, but it might also give you a false sense of security. What if the insurance company finds a loophole to avoid paying out? Or what if the premiums become too expensive and you're forced to cancel the policy?
And let's not forget about the deductibles! You might end up paying more out of pocket than if you had just covered the costs yourself. Plus, there's the added hassle of dealing with claims and paperwork.
So, while cycling insurance might seem like a no-brainer, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Just like with any other type of insurance, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Cycling insurance: peace of mind or false sense of security? It's a valid question. While it can offer protection for your bike, it may also lead to reliance on a third party, potentially overlooking the importance of personal responsibility.
Consider the financial implications too. Expensive premiums and deductibles can add up, possibly costing more than covering damages out-of-pocket. And let's not forget the hassle of claims and paperwork.
Ultimately, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons before committing to a policy. Cycling insurance might be the right choice for some, but it's essential to remember that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Stay informed, weigh your options, and make the decision that suits your unique needs. #cycling #insurance #prosandcons
Consider the financial implications too. Expensive premiums and deductibles can add up, possibly costing more than covering damages out-of-pocket. And let's not forget the hassle of claims and paperwork.
Ultimately, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons before committing to a policy. Cycling insurance might be the right choice for some, but it's essential to remember that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Stay informed, weigh your options, and make the decision that suits your unique needs. #cycling #insurance #prosandcons
Absolutely, cycling insurance can be a double-edged sword . While it provides financial protection, it may discourage cyclists from taking responsibility for their own gear. Plus, high costs and tedious claims can negate its benefits.
However, let's consider the legal aspect. Without insurance, cyclists might face hefty fines or lawsuits in case of accidents. So, it's crucial to balance personal responsibility with smart financial planning .
In conclusion, cycling insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each cyclist must weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on their unique needs ��ap luggage. #informedchoice #responsibility #cyclinginsurance
However, let's consider the legal aspect. Without insurance, cyclists might face hefty fines or lawsuits in case of accidents. So, it's crucial to balance personal responsibility with smart financial planning .
In conclusion, cycling insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each cyclist must weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on their unique needs ��ap luggage. #informedchoice #responsibility #cyclinginsurance
Sure, while cycling insurance can have its perks, it's not a magic solution for everything. You're still responsible for your own gear, and the costs and claims process can be a headache. And yeah, the legal aspect is something to consider, but let's not forget that insurance companies are in it to make a profit, not to hold your hand through every little mishap.
At the end of the day, it's up to you to decide if the benefits outweigh the costs. Just don't expect insurance to solve all your problems or to make you a better cyclist. And please, let's not turn the cycling community into a bunch of anxious, overly cautious riders. We've got enough of those on the roads already. #keepcalmandcycleon #ridesmart #nofakenice
At the end of the day, it's up to you to decide if the benefits outweigh the costs. Just don't expect insurance to solve all your problems or to make you a better cyclist. And please, let's not turn the cycling community into a bunch of anxious, overly cautious riders. We've got enough of those on the roads already. #keepcalmandcycleon #ridesmart #nofakenice
Absolutely, while cycling insurance can provide some financial protection, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's important to remember that insurance companies are businesses, and they're not always on your side. The claims process can be time-consuming and frustrating, and there may be exclusions or limitations that you're not aware of.
Moreover, relying too heavily on insurance can lead to complacency and a lack of personal responsibility. As cyclists, we should always prioritize safety and take steps to protect ourselves and our gear. This includes wearing helmets, following traffic laws, and investing in high-quality locks and security systems.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase cycling insurance should be based on a careful evaluation of your own needs and circumstances. Don't let fear or anxiety drive your decision-making, but don't ignore the potential risks and downsides either.
In short, while cycling insurance can be a valuable tool in some situations, it's not a magic wand. Let's ride smart, stay safe, and enjoy the freedom and joy of cycling. #ridesmart #safetyfirst #nodownsides
Moreover, relying too heavily on insurance can lead to complacency and a lack of personal responsibility. As cyclists, we should always prioritize safety and take steps to protect ourselves and our gear. This includes wearing helmets, following traffic laws, and investing in high-quality locks and security systems.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase cycling insurance should be based on a careful evaluation of your own needs and circumstances. Don't let fear or anxiety drive your decision-making, but don't ignore the potential risks and downsides either.
In short, while cycling insurance can be a valuable tool in some situations, it's not a magic wand. Let's ride smart, stay safe, and enjoy the freedom and joy of cycling. #ridesmart #safetyfirst #nodownsides
