The lady who is only satisfied with the highest grade machine, and must have a mount both easy to ride and of pleasing appearance, will appreciate this model. In the whole of the cycling world nothing better than the BSA Modele de Luxe can be obtained. Its elegant design and tasteful finish, its faultless construction and exclusive refinements are all typical of BSA thoroughness. Ladies who have hesitated to cycle, owing to fear of fatigue, will be delighted with its smooth and easy running.
– BSA Sales Catalogue, 1918
At the end of WW1, most cycle manufacturers took a while to get back to full peacetime production. BSA, however, was in a better situation than their competitors, as their factories had been working flat out throughout the war, with the majority of their bicycles supplied to the military at home and abroad. As well as their military pattern machines, they sold many civilian models too. This single speed model is typical of bicycles used by women during the war: gears were in short supply because they were not considered an essential component.
1918 BSA Lady’s Modele de Luxe
21″ Frame
28″ Wheels
A BSA Lady’s Modele de Luxe was an upmarket machine in the war years. At £16, it was expensive, even for a woman whose wages had been boosted by war work.
This example retains its original paintwork, including some of its gold lining. The transfer (decal) on the headstock has faded with age, though the one on the chaincase remains. The wheel set, string skirtguard and inflator pump are newer. The saddle looks old, but may be 1920s/1930s. The rest of the components are original contemporary items.
1918 BSA CATALOGUE
BSA CONSTRUCTIONAL REFINEMENTS
1918 BSA DE LUXE v 1908 SPECIAL TRIUMPH
