1887 Starley & Sutton ‘Special’ Rover

 

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Compare (above) Rover’s prototype safety bicycle of May, 1885, with their November 1885 model featuring direct steering. The race was on to get a practical machine into production and Starley & Sutton was in the lead.

By late 1886, the ‘Special’ Rover, seen below with owner Viscount Bury, could be considered the world’s most advanced bicycle.

 

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1887 Starley & Sutton ‘Special’ Rover

32 x 3/4″ Front Wheel

30 x 3/4″ Rear Wheel

Frame No 69

(Owned by The Farren Collection, Australia)

 

I rarely photograph other people’s bicycles. I made an exception for this remarkable machine. My friend Paul purchased it at auction, and I took care of packing and delivery for him. So while it was on my van, I took some pictures.

viscount bury special rover 1887

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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BEFORE RESTORATION

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