Military bicycle wanted
 

Guys,
For my 20 year old son who, unfortunately will never get to drive my CMP because he suffers from Epyleptic fits, but is extreemly interested in anything ex military. So, I would like to find him/purchase an ex military bicycle of any age to take to the shows.
Thanks in advance
Keith

Hi Keith

What about a Swiss Military Bicycle 05. They were built from 1905 until 1989, black color, just one gear and a back pedal brake, very sturdy and hart to break. The manufacturing date is usually stamped in the frame near the seat.

There were dozens of them at my last W&P visit, should be quite cheap.

Check this website in German

http://www.militaervelo.ch/militaerv...tarvelo_05.jpg

Greetings
Chris

Hi Chris,
Thanks for the link, I'll check it out later
Regards
Keith

Keith,

If the Swiss bicycle appeals to your son, see http://www.radfahrer.ch/English/tax/o-rad05.php for some background info.

Another option is to find a BSA Mark V or V* bicycle, should be possible to find one in Britain? Read http://oldbike.wordpress.com/1939-19...k-v-army-bike/ for more info.

Military bicycles are more interesting than meets the eye. I have a Dutch military bicycle, and I think you will find it is harder to find parts and spares for a military bicycle than it is for CMPs. . .

Here´s hoping you find a nice example!

Regards,
Hanno

Hanno,
Thanks for the link to the BSA bicycles, which is very interesting. As you say, there's more to the humble bicycle than meets the eye !. Do you (or anyone) have a list of frame numbers for the BSA Mk 5 or 5* as I think I may have found an unrestored example here in England. The one I have my eye on is a BSA Mk 5* which has the conventional rod rear brake, as opposed to a back pedal brake on the Mk 5. I'll let you know if I am successful in purchasing it.
I was also a bit surprized to see just how much the humble WW 2 bicycle was making on various websites
Regards
Keith

A batch of the Mk5* model came in from Ireland a few years ago in very good condition.

I had a new BSA Saddle made which cost all most as much as the Bike.

1940 Phillips bicycle for sale: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C109097?pt=pf (no connections)

Restored by a posh "Automobile Restorers" company, which may reflect in the price? If anything, some nice reference pictures.

H.

Thats probably about twice the price you would normaly expect to pay.

Up to the airborne models there is limited interested in standard army bikes.

Gentlemen,
I can now reveal that I have struck a deal on a WW2 bike for my son, actually, we now have 2 !
The first one is a BSA Mk 5* needing a full rebuild. It has spent the last 40+ years in a barn, in the east of England. Now, around this area were lots of airfeilds, so I'm going to carefully take this one down to see if I can find any markings from RAF/USAAF use. Pictures to follow
The second one is complete and fully restored, see attached pictures. All I will say is this one cost me less than half the other Phillips bike for sale at the "posh" restorers ! (and is more complete)
Thanks for all the input guys
Regards
Keith

Keith,

Well done, congrats! Looks like you found the restored one on E-bay?

Hanno

Good work Keith! The restored one looks very nice...and if you paid less than half of price they ask for the posh one, you really got a good deal.

I am looking forward to see the pictures of the unrestored BSA mk5*. Please don't hesitate to ask if you are looking for any parts for that one; I should have some of the brake rod stuff and handle bars for the Mk 4-5 in the garage somewhere.

Alex

I need a new rear wheel if anyone has one.

Mine is very slightly distorted which you can feel when you apply the brakes. I was advised not try adjusting the spokes due to their age.

A new set of tyres would also be useful.

Keith - unless you are approx 5'9'' plus in height you will get a high voice trying to straddle the cross bar on a BSA Mk 5*

Hi Hanno,
Yes, it was the one on e.bay. It belonged to a chap from Bath, near Bristol, who also had a 15cwt Bedford MW with aeroscreens (this has been sold on some time ago). Due to pick it up Saturday 12th Dec, hope it's as good as it looks. It also comes with one of the clips for the rifle, which he never fitted, as he was'nt sure if it had one or two clips. Watch this space !
Alex, thanks for the offer of spare parts on the BSA Mk 5*, there will be some spares I'll be looking for, one thing missing is one of the pedals. I'll post some pictures shortly. I've found a guy selling the rear racks, both early and late style, let me know if you require his details
Neil, both Dan & I are over 6ft tall, which is just as well, as both bikes are on 28" wheels.
Regards
Keith