1890 Hillman Herbert & Cooper ‘The Premier’ Convertible

 

 

 

1890 Hillman Herbert & Cooper THE PREMIER

‘Model I’ Convertible (Removable top tube)

18″ Frame

30″ Front Wheel. 28″ Rear Wheel

Frame No 57375

This Premier has a removable top tube to make it a ‘convertible’ model for either a lady or gentleman to ride. Though other companies experimented with ‘convertibles’ I’ve never seen another Premier like this.

Its most astounding feature is the HILLMAN HERBERT COOPER steering head transfer (decal).

The company was renamed Premier Cycle Co in 1891. After some searching I managed to find a catalogue illustration showing this model (thanks to Gertjan at Velorama Museum).

The top tube has been replaced, otherwise it is cosmetically original, unrestored. It has original pedals though the rubbers are missing, and so are the handlebar grips. Apart from that it’s ready to ride.