By Laura | 28th June 2018 | Updated 20th June 2023
Bicycles aren't just a European favourite but an American one too. Our bicycle expert picks their favourite classic American bikes which have previously been in auction and are rare finds in Europe.
Classic American bicycles are rarely seen over here in Europe. Their design is totally different from what we know in Europe. A classic cruiser is a very stylish (and eco-friendly) mode of transport, but these bikes are really too rare to use. They are great wall-hangers, wow objects for your home and/or the perfect companion for your classic American car.
1. Schwinn Spitfire - cruiser - 1950s
This bicycle strongly represents the cult brand Schwinn and the way the bikes were styled in the 50s. It mainly had to resemble a motorcycle: that meant including 'petrol tank' and thicker tyres, called balloon tires. Bikes like this could be seen in the post-war American black and white series. Schwinn was originally a product of Ignaz Schwinn, the German-born American entrepreneur who started his business in Chicago in 1895. With financial help from Adolph Arnold, also from Germany, he was able to start Arnold, Schwinn & Company. On the older bikes you'll see the name 'Arnold, Schwinn'. This Schwinn Spitfire has been restored to near museum quality.
2. Western Flyer Cosmic Flyer - 1950s
This Flyer is a classic example of the influence the Space Age had on the bicycle industry. This bike from Western Auto was the best gift you could receive at the end of the 1950s. It features a tank with light switch, built-in headlight and the frame shape that suggests speed: all rocket related forms. Benjamin. This Cosmic Flyer comes complete with the user manual and the old warranty certificate.
3. Murray Missile - 1960s
This Murray Missile waited, unused, for almost 60 years for a new owner. This space-age bike is therefore still brand new after all those years. That is quite special because the bicycle was, and still is, a tool for use. Fortunately, a collector realised at an early stage that a bicycle like this Missile had to be preserved because of the typical space-age forms of the 1950s and 60s.
4. Cadillac ladies' cruiser - 1930s
It is not rare that car brands have a bicycle bearing their name as well. For example, Opel has built bicycles for years, and bicycle brands such as Columbia (Pope Industries) have also produced cars. Even now you see big brands come out with a flashy bike every so often. You'll see a Cadillac cruiser from the late 1930s a lot less often and therefore it can be called rare. Not to mention this bicycle rides as nice as its bigger brother on 4 wheels.
5. Tiller three-wheeler - early 1895
By 1900, the period in which the bicycle industry was in full development, the smaller riders were also taken into account. These tricycles are such a beautiful example of what was available for children in those years. This Tiller three-wheeler has large 27 ½-inch wheels and a braided seat. You move it forward like a classic pedal car and the steering wheel is a simple rod to the front wheel.
Feeling inspired by these rare classic finds? Then be sure to check out our full US Bicycle auction for more sets of wheels.
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