1910 James Tandem No 22

I bought this interesting tandem at Beaulieu Autojumble last month. I looked in James Peatling’s excellent book ‘The Tandem’ and found a similar 1910 James Ladyback No 22 tandem on page 70. The curved top top tube at the front appears to be a James Cycle Co feature.

However, the one in the illustration has a conventional rear ‘loop’ to the frame, while, as you can see, mine incorporates a cross frame at the rear.

My opinion is that it was made in 1910 but, as there was very much less demand for tandems than bicycles, the company kept their tandem frames in stock and when one was ordered they fitted it with parts relevant to the time of the order. Hence this example has a 1930s drum brake wheelset. It also has an extra cross brace added to strengthen the rear portion.

I’ve added a flyer for ‘The Tandem’ book. It’s a useful book to have in your library and would make a good Xmas present. You can order your own copy direct from the author James Peatling – email: jrpeatling@gmail.com

1910 James Tandem Model 22

with Freewheel Device for Ladies

Curved Top Tube to Front. Cross-frame to Rear

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1908 JAMES TANDEM ADVERTISEMENT