Starley Collection

Advertisement for the Rover Safety Bicycle, 1885
Advertisment for the Rover Safety Bicycle, built by Starley and Sutton of the Meteor Works, Coventry

The Safety Bicycle of the 1890 s
Photograph of a cyclist and his Safety bicycle of the 1890 s. John Kemp Starley produced the first safety bicycle with his Rover design of 1885

Advert for Starley Bros. Coventry tandem tricycle 1884
A tricycle made for two. 1884

An Ariel 250 racing at Snetterton, Norfolk, 1962. The company was founded by James Starley and William Hillman in 1870 to make bicycles and the first patented tensioned wire-spoke wheel

A man and a woman riding an Ariel Leader, 1958. Produced from 1958-1965, with a 247cc vertical twin 2-stroke engine

An Ariel Red Hunter 350cc, 1956. The motorcyclist with a map asks a man for directions. The 347cc and 497cc ohv Red Hunter models were a mainstay of Ariel after WWII

An Ariel Square 4 1000cc, with a large sidecar, c1952. The bike caused a sensation when first shown at the 1931 Motorcycle show at Olympia, London

An Ariel VB 600cc with a sidecar, 1956. Parked outside a cottage, with a smiling woman sitting in the sidecar

An Ariel 500 belt drive three-wheeler, 1914. Two couples sit on the bike

1926 Ariel motorbike. The company was founded by James Starley and William Hillman in 1870 to make bicycles and the first patented tensioned wire-spoke wheel

Syke riding an Ariel 4 during the Inter Varsity motor cross hill climb, November 1931

Page of Advertisements (engraving)
1624749 Page of Advertisements (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Page of Advertisements. Illustration for The Illustrated London News, 23 October 1886)

Advert for Osborne tricycles 1884
Front steerer and double driver with open front. 1884

Page of Advertisements (engraving)
1614117 Page of Advertisements (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Page of Advertisements. Illustration for The Illustrated London News, 4 July 1885)

Advert for Centaur tricycles 1884
Latest inventions and improvement in bicycles. Date: 1884

John Kemp Starley
JOHN KEMP STARLEY inventor of the safety bicycle [do not confuse with James Starley who invented spoked bicycle wheels !) Date: 1855 - 1901

Rover Safety Bicycle, 1939. From Cycling 1839-1939. [John Player & Sons, London, 1939]

Rover Safety Bicycle, c1885. The design of the present-day bicycle has remained much the same as the Rover safety bicycle, the first embodiment of the modern vehicle, designed by John Kemp Starley

Rover Safety Bicycle, the first commercially successful safety bicycle introduced by Starley & Sutton of Coventry, England, in 1885: Chain-driven. Wood engraving

Starleys Salvo Trike
James Starley, noted cycle inventor, on his Salvo machine

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"Starley: Pioneering the Evolution of Bicycles through Time" Step back in time to the late 19th century, where innovation and adventure collided on two wheels. The name Starley resonates with the birth of modern bicycles, forever changing how we traverse our world. From their groundbreaking Rover Safety Bicycle in 1885 to the iconic designs of the 1890s, Starley Bros. Coventry left an indelible mark on cycling history. At the forefront was John Kemp Starley, a visionary who revolutionized bicycle design and propelled it into a new era. His inventions not only provided safer rides but also opened up endless possibilities for exploration and leisure. As seen in advertisements from that era, such as those for tandem tricycles or Osborne tricycles, Starley's creations captured hearts and minds alike. One cannot overlook the cultural impact of cycling during this period - beautifully depicted in advertising posters like "Grand Manege Central. " These captivating images showcased women confidently pedaling away societal norms while embracing newfound freedom on their bicycles. The popularity of Starley's innovations soared as more people embraced these efficient modes of transportation. Advertisements for Centaur tricycles further highlighted their reliability and comfort, making them accessible to all riders. Fast forward to 1939 when Rover reintroduced its timeless Safety Bicycle - a testament to its enduring legacy. This sturdy yet elegant machine continued to captivate enthusiasts worldwide with its classic charm. As we reflect upon these historical moments captured within pages of engraved advertisements, let us celebrate Starley's contributions that shaped modern cycling culture. Their commitment to safety, quality craftsmanship, and innovative designs laid down foundations still felt today by every cyclist who embarks on thrilling adventures astride a bicycle – thanks to Starley's unwavering dedication towards progress.