c.1891 Humber Gentlemans Solid Tyre Safety Bicycle

A very nice example of an early bicycle with Solid Tyres. Made by Humber Cycles in about 1891 just before John Boyd Dunlop commercially developed his ideas for the pneumatic tyre. This bicycle is also very similar in design to the slightly later Humber bicycle as raced by the French cycle racer; 'Charles Terront'. 

It is very well preserved having been carefully looked after by previous owners having only had minor cosmetics and perishable parts replaced in the past. These being most notably the leather saddle cover and the replacement wooden handlebar grips which are sympathetic to the bicycle.   The bike is numbered in many places throughout with 21446 being stamped on the brake lever, handlebars, the frame at the bottom bracket and both front and rear hubs. Traces of the original nickel plating are good on the hubs and remains are showing on the handlebars and saddle post, cranks and chain wheel etc. 

The wheels are 30 inches in diameter and built with radial spokes with the white solid rubber tyres which are apparently relatively recent replacements. The drive is fixed and is via the correct and original 1 inch block chain. The brake is quite fun and pivots from the top of the front fork crown with parts which look to be similar to chain links and then rubs on the front tyre as a brake should for this era of bicycle. The pedals also appear to be the originals including the rubber blocks. Original mudguards are also with the bicycle. 

This type of bicycle represents a fabulous example of the first real steps in bicycle design and is ready to ride and enjoy on the many events now available for early bicycles now including the prestigious - London to Brighton Veteran Car run.