c1905 Eadie Fittings Machine Fast Road Racer
Sloping top tube with 3″ drop (35″ – 32″)
26″ Frame
26″ Wheels
Inverted lever front brake
Eadie Coaster rear brake
Customers could either buy a complete bicycle from the Eadie Mfg Co, or a local builder could buy the components through the trade to create a bespoke machine for a customer. The latter option was cheaper and, as it provided the same top quality parts as used by the leading cycle manufacturers, it was a much more popular choice, particularly in the export markets where there were often import tariffs on complete bicycles but components enjoyed zero rated tariffs to encourage local cycle builders. The steering head transfer (decal) reveals that it was assembled by a Wolverhampton cycle shop.
This ‘Eadie Fittings Machine’ was built from racing fittings and has a deep sloping top tube with a 3 inch drop. As it has optional mudguards and brakes, it would have been used for fast road travel, though owners often rode such machines to track events at weekends. The catalogue illustrations presented here are from Macbeth, believed to be part of the Eadie group of companies. This road racer appears to be an older restoration, with its original head transfer preserved. It’s in very good all round condition and ready to ride.
1907 MACBETH EADIE FITTINGS CATALOGUE
After absorbing George Townsend, the Eadie Mfg Co had the facilities to establish themselves as cycle manufacturers. As well as selling components as Eadie Mfg Co, they marketed complete machines under their own name (and as Royal Enfield).
In the photo above you can see an example of a shop advertising ‘Invincible Cycles’ built of either BSA or Eadie fittings.
