Newbie in the USA - researching vintage UK bikes

[topher1]

My father was a rabid amateur cyclist in the UK before WW II. He emigrated to the USA in 1951 bringing several bicycles with him (and my mother and myself). He recently died and I now have several of them and am in the process of putting them back on their wheels. I have been roaming the internet collecting history about these bicycles and came across a topic in cycle chat on Rory O'Brien. Since I have two of them I thought I might be able to participate.

For members in the UK, I have a good deal of my fathers photos, cycling magazines, letters and assorted papers not to mention his box of bicycle bits. He was forever reconfiguring his bikes and was a lifetime member of the Finsbury Park CC and held several club records in the 30's and 40's.

A couple of his bikes are rolling again. For photos see http://www.irrational1.deviantart.com/#/d48n0gp and http://irrational1.deviantart.com/#/d48o6t3. More in the shop!

Chris Edmonds
Batavia IL USA

 

[diapason]

Some great looking bikes there, Chris. Good to see them still in good nick and being used! I expect someone will be along shortly who can give you some more information about the Finsbury Park Club.

 

[topher1]

...I expect someone will be along shortly who can give you some more information about the Finsbury Park Club.

Actually I have been in touch with Brian Edrupt, the FPCC historian already. His father and mine were contemporaries. I sent a few of my father's cups and medals back to the UK a few months ago.
Chris

 

[postman]

Hello and a warm welcome from sunny Yorkshire.Yes and it is October.Very strange.

 

[topher1]

Postman...

A most interesting Avatar there. A bit off topic I know but my father was in RAF Bomber Command. Care to share a bit o' history with me?

Chris
topher1@ameritech.net

 

[PeteT]

Hey Chris - welcome. Not sure if you've seen this site before http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/ - but it may be of use.

 

[topher1]

Hey Chris - welcome. Not sure if you've seen this site before http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/ - but it may be of use.

Actually yes... I have been in touch with Peter Underwood and have been sharing info on my dad's Paris (Rensch) Tour de France.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[gds58]

Hi Chris,

I'm sure that you may have already established that Rory O'Brien was a very prominent cycle dealer in North Street, Romford, Essex on the outskirts of London. Sadly the shop and name no longer exists but I can remember visiting his shop as a youngster many times and looking in awe at the amazing 'lightweight' machines he had on display. I always thought of it as a 'proper' bike shop! and I always hoped that I might race on bikes like those in the shop.

Rory O'Brien sponsored a racing team back in the 50's and one of his most famous riders was a guy called Dave Bedwell who was a tiny little guy (about 5' 4") and he raced in the late 40's and on for many years. I'm not old enough to remember him personally but my dad remembers him and how good he was.

You might try sending a PM to 'stevienix' on here (cycle chat) as I think he is married to Dave Bedwell's daughter! you may be able to find out some more history on the Rory O'Brien name etc.

Hope this all helps, Graham

 

[Cptflakey]

Postman...

A most interesting Avatar there. A bit off topic I know but my father was in RAF Bomber Command. Care to share a bit o' history with me?

Chris
topher1@ameritech.net

I don't wish to invade in on the thread and diverse off of your topic, but your post made me chuckle (I shouldn't laugh).

Google 'Dad's Army' mate