Beschreibung:

A bicycle of significant historic design, and especially as this bicycle is also in sound, rideable condition. The nomenclature of J. K. Starley Safety Bicycles of the mid-1880s has been the subject of persistent errors and mantras over the years, that have not only confused both professional and amateur bicycling historians but have encouraged incorrect labelling in museum collections. Part of the blame lies with the H. W. Bartlett's book of 1931, and the unfortunate repetition of myths by luminaries like C. F. Caunter until the present day. Differing from the so called third model example currently in trust with the Science Museum, London, this example has a forward saddle extension, presumably to bring the rider closer, and at a better angle to the pedals. The bicycle carries the machine number of 1781, stamped in five places on the bottom bracket assembly, to include the cranks, cotter pins and axle. This bicycle has a 30-inch rear wheel and a 36-inch steering wheel, both with 3/4-inch crescent rims and black tyring. Drive is by 7-inch slotted cranks and a Brampton type inch-pitch block chain to a fixed rear sprocket, the chain-wheel and spindle held in two adjustable bearing races. A spoon-brake acts on the front wheel activated by a lever on the 26-inch wide handlebars, with rear facing turned grips. A coil spring lamp bracket of the type designed by Thomas Humber is fitted to an adjustable clamp around the steering head, just below the manufacturer's shield announcing, 'Rover - J. K. Starley & Co., Limited - Meteor Cycle Works - West Orchard - Coventry'. The business converted to a Limited Company in late 1888, which indicates a 're-introduction' of this model post-1888. Other features include: foot resting pegs, rear mounting step, chain-guard, correct period pedals, original handlebar grips and a later leather saddle top. A J. Lucas & Son-manufactured oil-powered Safety Bicycle lamp is fitted, representing their patent No 9764 of July 1886. The lamp is complete in all respects with undamaged glasses. A period J. Lucas & Son 'Challis' type bell is also fitted. In keeping with conservation practice, the writer adjudges that this machine has been repaired and renovated rather than restored. Replicated parts such as the front mudguard and spoon-brake have been made using a period machine as a design source, and this work can be clearly identified Historic Notes: A similar model, the so called third version, is shown in the George Moore engravings illustrated in The Wheel World of October and November 1885, both showing the Rover racing the HHC Kangaroo, to prove the new Rover design 'is the fastest in the World'. The earliest Rovers possessed 36-inch front wheels, because Starley correctly believed that the larger wheel cushioned road-generated shock. While other manufacturers generally opted for a smaller front wheel, Starley continued producing his 'Rational Rover' with a 36-inch front wheel until circa 1891. This highly original and historic 'Rover' has not only a secure place in the history of British bicycle manufacture, but also in the history of James Starley and his various inspired designs, his partner Sutton unfortunately having been killed in a horse and trap accident in 1886. James Starley with his Rover was producing the first practical safety bicycle, then the Holy Grail of the Cycle Industry; indeed, the bicycle was easy to mount and ride, incorporating a low saddle and chain drive to the rear wheel, key design features that were instantly copied by others, and that allowed for a resurgence in the industry. 'The Rover has set the Fashion to the World', was the slogan used in Rover advertising for a long time afterwards, and honours the engineering talents of John Kemp Starley. (1)