This splendid machine was first introduced in 1904 after a long series of experiments and trials, and was intended to compete in price with the unreliable machines of obscure jobbers and builders. Its success has been unprecedented, due to the fact that Ladies for the first time had offered to them a machine fully guaranteed in every detail including tyres, light and highly finished, at a price with the reach of every purse. Since its first introduction, experience has enabled us to add great improvements in detail and finish, and the large sale it has met with enables us to make a substanital reduction in the price.
– 1907 Rudge-Whitworth catalogue description
The statement above reveals the difficulties faced by the major cycle manufacturers because of the cheap and poorly-made bicycles that threatened to ruin the cycle market. The immediate solution for companies such as Rudge-Whitworth, Humber, Raleigh, etc was to reduce prices and provide a guarantee. But some manufacturers went further: instead of using components that were freely available and interchangeable, they made every part of their bicycles themselves so that the parts were unique.
Because nothing on a Rudge-Whitworth bicycle of this era can be installed from another manufacturer, when you come across one of these bikes now, over a century later, it’s important to ensure that the bicycle is complete and retains all its original parts. Luckily, this one is original. I particularly like the Rudge-Whitworth ‘hand’ logo that appears on the oilers for the front hub and bottom bracket.
1912 Rudge-Whitworth Lady’s Bicycle
23″ Frame
28″ Wheels
Wilby Ornate Saddle
(Now sold)
This 1912 Rudge-Whitworth Lady’s Bicycle was restored in 1980. I have a history file for it stretching back to that time. It’s in good working order, with nice nickel and paintwork.
RUDGE WHITWORTH FREE WHEEL CLUTCH