1947 Rudge-Whitworth De-Luxe Tourist Policemen’s Bike

 

Dymchurch is a historic village situated on the Romney Marsh, sometimes called the fifth quarter of the globe, and famous for its tales of smuggling.

The 15″ gauge Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway was constructed in the 1920s. From 1926 to 1978 it was the smallest public railway in the world.

 

Police forces around the world used bicycles from the 1890s onwards.

The British Police Force had a height restriction of 5′ 10″ until the early 1990s. So a policeman’s bicycle invariably had a tall frame size, of 26″ or 28″.

This Rudge-Whitworth has a 26″ frame with 28″ wheels. It was owned by a Dymchurch police constable from 1947 until 1980 when he retired.

The 1947 Rudge-Whitworth was totally redesigned from its pre-war specification, and was fitted with the latest Raleigh Dynohub. Distinctive lamp brackets with the letter ‘R’ in the centre were also introduced in this year. Because of their sturdy construction and excellent reputation, Rudge-Whitworth and Raleigh bicycles were favoured with Police forces around the country.

 

 

 1947 Rudge-Whitworth De-Luxe Tourist

Model 103 Gents

26″ Frame

28″ Wheels

The Village Policeman’s Bicycle, Dymchurch, Kent, between 1947-1980

(Now sold)

 

This machine is in good all-round condition. It was in regular use until recently, and was used by a Dymchurch policeman until 1980.

The chrome has rust in parts, but overall it is very good condition, with its transfers (decals) intact and fitted with an excellent saddle. It’s ready to ride.