1914 Bianchi ‘Model 1912’ Military Folding Bicycle (WW1)

 

1914 Bianchi ‘Model 1912’ Military Folding Bicycle

with accessory Folding Frame Bag

20″ Frame

24″ Wheels with solid tyres.

Fixed wheel.

This is a superb original unrestored Italian Bianchi military folding bicycle, fitted with the unique folding frame bag that was made specially for this model. The solid tyres suggest that this was used by a soldier rather than an officer (whose cycle would have had pneumatic tyres). They were famously used by Italian alpine troops during World War One.

With front and rear suspension, and a brake linkage that travels through the steering head, this was a very innovative state-of-the-art bicycle in its day. It was one of the featured examples in my book on the history of military bicycles. Though it is a museum piece, it is also in full working order and ready to ride.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1914 BIANCHI CATALOGUE