Clement & Cie was one of France’s top manufacturers in the early years of cycling, and a leading contender in cycle racing (see above) which was the primary international sport. Adolphe Clement recognized the importance of the automobile, so he merged his company with Humber and Gladiator in 1897, and the new concern became one of France’s major car manufacturers.
Clement also understood the importance of advertising, and many beautiful posters were created to advertise the company’s bicycles, motorcycles and cars. In fact, Clement was the most prolific of all the vehicle advertisers in the ‘belle epoch’ era. There are many reproduction posters available, so if you own one of the company’s early products it’s lovely to have a matching poster.
1898 Clement Road Racer
with ‘moustache’ handlebar and front brake
24.5″ Frame
French size 700 (27.5″) Wheels
Wooden ‘Pyrenees’ rims
Brooks Saddle
Fixed wheel
Frame No 96433
(Now sold)
Clement’S 1897 merger with Gladiator and Humber gave them access to a wider sales market. There was also a vast increase in interest in cycling in France as the new century approached, and the company advertised a wide variety of bicycles, some new and some models from previous years that they continued to advertise.
The reversible rear hub provides both fixed and freewheel, useful for a rider who used his machine for regular commuting during the week and racing at the weekend. The Clement is currently set up as a fixed wheel. It has been fitted with later racing handlebar grips, but otherwise appears original. This is a practical lightweight road racing machine in good mechanical and cosmetic condition, and it is ready to ride.
CLEMENT POSTERS
