Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

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REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

BIRMINGHAM SMALL ARMS COMPANY (BSA)
BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN 1942-1945

From B-GL-317-002/PT-001, Weapons, Rifle, Bayonet, and Automatic Rifle, page 2-21 (5 May 1975, Ch2 1987-07-30)

After the summer break, the Quartermaster is back with a presentation/display on the
Second World War BSA folding bicycle for the British Airborne Forces. Valor Park
Association (VPA) has been invited by Bike Edmonton to do a presentation on this
iconic war bicycle owned by Claude VILLENEUVE.

BIKE EDMONTON

Bike Edmonton was established in 1980 as the Edmonton Bicycle Commuters Society. Bike Edmonton promotes the bicycle as a healthy, economical, and ecologically thorough mode of transportation by selling refurbished bikes, teaching, and helping fixing bikes, teaching how to ride, hosting events, and promoting accessible cycling for everyone in Edmonton. Thank you, Edmonton Bicycle, for hosting us!

THE BICYCLE AND ITS USE IN THE ARMED FORCES

The use of the bicycle by armies goes back well into the beginning of the 20th century.

During the First World War, the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) had a Canadian Corps Cyclist Battalion made of three companies. The battalion saw active service in Belgium and France and was disbanded at the end of the war. The British Army had cyclist companies in its divisions, and later two whole divisions became cyclists: 1st and 2nd Cyclist Divisions. While the bicycle was extensively used during the Second World War, there was no bicycle unit as such in the Canadian Army as bicycles were superseded by motorized transport in modern armies. Switzerland was the last country to disband its bicycle unit, the Swiss Army’s Bicycle Regiment, in 2001. However, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian soldiers have been using e-bikes armed with missiles to take out Russian tanks.

THE AIRBORNE SOLDIERS AND THE BICYCLE

Private Tom J. Phelan, 1 st Canadian Parachute Battalion, Reinforcement camp, England, 1944. Library and Archives Canada (LAC) PA-204971

In 1941 bicycle manufacturer BSA Cycles Ltd., a subsidiary of Birmingham Small Arms (BSA), was asked by the War Office (WO) to design a folding bicycle for the newly created British Airborne Forces. Production started mid-1942 and probably ended by 1944. No war production records have been unearthed to date. Out of the 128,000 military bicycles manufactured by BSA Cycles Ltd during the Second World War over 60,000 folding bicycles were produced. The folding bicycle was used not only by airborne troops but also by the Royal Marine Commando and some infantry units during Operation OVERLORD (the Invasion). The life required was only 50 miles but in face some achieved many thousands of miles in private hands after the war. Around the end of the Second World War surplus bicycles were available for sale. In Canada, they were sold surplus by the Hudson’s Bay Company and by Capital Iron (surplus store) for about $9.95.

The Cyclists Touring Club (CTC) Gazette, April 1944.

BSA CYCLES LIMITED

At its peak during the Second World War, BSA operated 67 factories producing weapons, bicycles, and motorcycles. BSA was founded in Birmingham in 1861 to provide weapons for the Crimean War. The company started diversifying its production in 1880s and created a new group to manufacture bicycles: The BSA Cycles Limited. The group will expend to manufacture motorcycles. In 1957 the bicycles division was sold to Raleigh Bicycle Company based in Nottingham, England.

TWO PATTERNS

Two patterns were produced. The First Pattern (Early Twin Tube Model) had the seat post, of a smaller diameter, inserted into a tube welded to the rear of the main post. The inflator (pump) was in the front of the main post. In the second model, in order to simplify the design and streamline the manufacturing of the bicycle, the seat post was incorporated into the main post (the seat tube) adding to the robustness of the bicycle. The inflator was positioned at the rear of the main post (seat tube).

Early, First Pattern.
Late, Second Pattern.

THE BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN

The thoughts behind the Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern was that it would give foot soldiers some distinct advantages.  The War Office (WO) felt that a paratrooper could cover up to 25 miles (40km) on foot in a 24-hour period, however, given a bicycle the same soldier could cover up to 75 miles (120km) in a 24-hour period (so three times the distance).  Furthermore, a bicycle was relatively silent compared to a motorized scooter or vehicle.  The issue really come down to the tires, once damaged it rendered the bicycle useless, which is why the BSA folding paratrooper bicycle was far better on paper than on the battlefield.  

 

Chainrings on BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern have 46 teeth on the chainwheel and 18 teeth on the Mark X pattern freewheel rear sprocket which created a gear ratio of 2.555.  With the bicycle having 26-inch diameter wheels (circumference of the tire being 81,68 inches) each pedal stroke moved the bicycle forward 208.69 inches (81,68 inches x 2.555).  At 60 rotations per minute (RPM) this allowed for a speed close to 12 mph.  

 

  • Tire Circumference in inch = Tire diameter in inch x Pi (26 x 3,14159 = 81.68).  
  • Chainrings ratio = Number of teeth of the chainwheel / number of teeth of the rear sprocket (46 / 18 = 2.555).  
  • Distance in inches for one pedal stroke = Tire Circumference in inches x Chainrings ratio (81.68 x 2.555 = 208.70 inches).  
  • RPM = Number of pedal strokes in one minute.  
  • Distance forward in inches in one minute = Distance in inches for one pedal stroke x RPM (208.70 x 60 = 12,521.75 inches).  
  • Distance forward in feet in one hour = Distance forward in inches for one minute / 12 inches (12,521.75 inches/minute x 60 minutes = 751,304.97 inches/hour so 62,608,74 feet/hour).  
  • Speed in mph = Distance forward in feet in one hour / 5280 feet in one mile (62,608,74 feet/hour / 5280 feet = 11.86 mph).  

 

Speed in mph = (((((Tire Circumference in inches x Chainrings ratio) x RPM) x 60) / 12) / 5280)

So: ((((((26 x 3,14159) x (46 / 18) x 60) x 60) / 12) / 5280) = 11,86 mph

GOING TO BATTLE!

The War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 for A Canadian Parachute Battalion established at 16 the number of Bicycles, Folding, Airborne Pattern as follows:

  • Battalion Headquarters: one.  
  • Headquarters Company: total of 12 as follows: 
  • Signal Platoon: 10: and 
  • Mortar/Machine Gun Platoon (two platoons): one each for a total of two.  
  • Rifle Company Headquarters (three companies): one each for a total of three.  
  • Whilst in garrison, there was also 16 General Service (GS) bicycles (such as BSA Mark V) within the Administration Platoon of the Headquarters Company used for training and local transportation.  

There were three ways to bring the bike onto the battlefield.  

  • Attached to a parachutist.  After his parachute had opened, the parachutist would lower it at the end of a 20-foot rope in the same manner as for jumping with the leg bag.  Reversed, the bike saddle will touch the ground first and thus absorb the shock. 

Jumping with the Folding Airborne Bicycle.
Jumping with the Folding Airborne Bicycle.

  • Dropped by parachute. With a type Q parachute of 12 ft diameter. Again, the bicycle saddle wit hit the ground first.

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern with its Type D Parachute in position.
BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern with its Type D Parachute in position.

  • Loaded into a glider.

Airlanding troops with bicycles loading a Horsa glider prior to D Day. IWM CH 12826

In practice, the parachute units dropped them by parachute in groups of three to be recovered by the troops after landing and for the glider units in gliders.  The twin loop frame made of small diameter tubes provides low weight but maintains adequate rigidity.  After loosening the two large thumbscrews, the front half of the frame can be folded sideways to overlap the rear half.  

WAS IT SUCH A GOOD IDEA?

Was it much better on paper than on the battlefield? First, the bicycle had to survive the jump, either by jumping with it or dropped by parachute. Secondly, the tires once damaged will render the bike useless. Third, the very nature of airborne operations which required “pinpoint” and short-term military operations.

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern unfolded and folded.
BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern unfolded and folded.

SPECIFICATIONS

Production:

  • production started mid-1942 and probably ended by 1944.
  • Estimated that between 60,000 and 70,000 were made.
 

Serial number:

  • Starts with letter R followed by number.
  • Deeply stamped into the left rear drop out under axle.
  • 1 st Pattern: Up to R7XXX. Early model with seat mounted behind twin upright tubes.
  • 2nd Pattern: Starting at R12463. Highest recorded number so far is R72380.

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

Pedals

  • Rod type sliding in/out.  
  • The pedal crank has 22 ball bearings of 1/4″.  
  • Each pedal is retained by poppet ball of 7/32″ to retain pedal shaft in or out.  

Chain

  • 55 inches.  
  • No chainguard.  

Chainwheel

  • Has letters BSA in big cut-out letters.  
  • 46 teeth.  


Rear wheel sprocket

  • BSA Mark X Clutch.  
  • 18 teeth.  


Gear ratio

  • 2.555 (46/18).  

Brakes

  • Front and rear center-pull cable-operated caliper.

Wheel

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

Frame

Shape and construction

  • Made of steel.  
  • Elliptical.  
  • Wingnut-fastening hinge joints on the top tube down tube to allow the bike to fold in two.  

Size

  • Only on size of 21”.  

Weight

  • 32 lb (14.5 kg).  

Transfers

  • There are three on the bicycle: 
  • “Pattern № 543076 over Registry № 838413” in silver plus “Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow” in black steering head.  
  • BSA trademark on the saddle tube.  

Drivetrain

Pedals

  • Rod type sliding in/out.  
  • The pedal crank has 22 ball bearings of 1/4″.  
  • Each pedal is retained by poppet ball of 7/32″ to retain pedal shaft in or out.  

Chain

  • 55 inches.  
  • No chainguard.  

Chainwheel

  • Has letters BSA in big cut-out letters.  
  • 46 teeth.  


Rear wheel sprocket

  • BSA Mark X Clutch.  
  • 18 teeth.  


Gear ratio

  • 2.555 (46/18).  

Brakes

  • Front and rear center-pull cable-operated caliper.

Wheel

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

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VPA – FROM THE QUARTERMASTER… Volume 9

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

Frame

Shape and construction

  • Made of steel.  
  • Elliptical.  
  • Wingnut-fastening hinge joints on the top tube down tube to allow the bike to fold in two.  

Size

  • Only on size of 21”.  

Weight

  • 32 lb (14.5 kg).  

Transfers

  • There are three on the bicycle: 
  • “Pattern № 543076 over Registry № 838413” in silver plus “Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow” in black steering head.  
  • BSA trademark on the saddle tube.  

Drivetrain

Pedals

  • Rod type sliding in/out.  
  • The pedal crank has 22 ball bearings of 1/4″.  
  • Each pedal is retained by poppet ball of 7/32″ to retain pedal shaft in or out.  

Chain

  • 55 inches.  
  • No chainguard.  

Chainwheel

  • Has letters BSA in big cut-out letters.  
  • 46 teeth.  


Rear wheel sprocket

  • BSA Mark X Clutch.  
  • 18 teeth.  


Gear ratio

  • 2.555 (46/18).  

Brakes

  • Front and rear center-pull cable-operated caliper.

Wheel

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

BIRMINGHAM SMALL ARMS COMPANY (BSA)
BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN 1942-1945

From B-GL-317-002/PT-001, Weapons, Rifle, Bayonet, and Automatic Rifle, page 2-21 (5 May 1975, Ch2 1987-07-30)

After the summer break, the Quartermaster is back with a presentation/display on the
Second World War BSA folding bicycle for the British Airborne Forces. Valor Park
Association (VPA) has been invited by Bike Edmonton to do a presentation on this
iconic war bicycle owned by Claude VILLENEUVE.

BIKE EDMONTON

Bike Edmonton was established in 1980 as the Edmonton Bicycle Commuters Society. Bike Edmonton promotes the bicycle as a healthy, economical, and ecologically thorough mode of transportation by selling refurbished bikes, teaching, and helping fixing bikes, teaching how to ride, hosting events, and promoting accessible cycling for everyone in Edmonton. Thank you, Edmonton Bicycle, for hosting us!

THE BICYCLE AND ITS USE IN THE ARMED FORCES

The use of the bicycle by armies goes back well into the beginning of the 20th century.

During the First World War, the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) had a Canadian Corps Cyclist Battalion made of three companies. The battalion saw active service in Belgium and France and was disbanded at the end of the war. The British Army had cyclist companies in its divisions, and later two whole divisions became cyclists: 1st and 2nd Cyclist Divisions. While the bicycle was extensively used during the Second World War, there was no bicycle unit as such in the Canadian Army as bicycles were superseded by motorized transport in modern armies. Switzerland was the last country to disband its bicycle unit, the Swiss Army’s Bicycle Regiment, in 2001. However, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian soldiers have been using e-bikes armed with missiles to take out Russian tanks.

THE AIRBORNE SOLDIERS AND THE BICYCLE

Private Tom J. Phelan, 1 st Canadian Parachute Battalion, Reinforcement camp, England, 1944. Library and Archives Canada (LAC) PA-204971

In 1941 bicycle manufacturer BSA Cycles Ltd., a subsidiary of Birmingham Small Arms (BSA), was asked by the War Office (WO) to design a folding bicycle for the newly created British Airborne Forces. Production started mid-1942 and probably ended by 1944. No war production records have been unearthed to date. Out of the 128,000 military bicycles manufactured by BSA Cycles Ltd during the Second World War over 60,000 folding bicycles were produced. The folding bicycle was used not only by airborne troops but also by the Royal Marine Commando and some infantry units during Operation OVERLORD (the Invasion). The life required was only 50 miles but in face some achieved many thousands of miles in private hands after the war. Around the end of the Second World War surplus bicycles were available for sale. In Canada, they were sold surplus by the Hudson’s Bay Company and by Capital Iron (surplus store) for about $9.95.

The Cyclists Touring Club (CTC) Gazette, April 1944.

BSA CYCLES LIMITED

At its peak during the Second World War, BSA operated 67 factories producing weapons, bicycles, and motorcycles. BSA was founded in Birmingham in 1861 to provide weapons for the Crimean War. The company started diversifying its production in 1880s and created a new group to manufacture bicycles: The BSA Cycles Limited. The group will expend to manufacture motorcycles. In 1957 the bicycles division was sold to Raleigh Bicycle Company based in Nottingham, England.

TWO PATTERNS

Two patterns were produced. The First Pattern (Early Twin Tube Model) had the seat post, of a smaller diameter, inserted into a tube welded to the rear of the main post. The inflator (pump) was in the front of the main post. In the second model, in order to simplify the design and streamline the manufacturing of the bicycle, the seat post was incorporated into the main post (the seat tube) adding to the robustness of the bicycle. The inflator was positioned at the rear of the main post (seat tube).

Early, First Pattern.
Late, Second Pattern.

THE BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN

The thoughts behind the Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern was that it would give foot soldiers some distinct advantages.  The War Office (WO) felt that a paratrooper could cover up to 25 miles (40km) on foot in a 24-hour period, however, given a bicycle the same soldier could cover up to 75 miles (120km) in a 24-hour period (so three times the distance).  Furthermore, a bicycle was relatively silent compared to a motorized scooter or vehicle.  The issue really come down to the tires, once damaged it rendered the bicycle useless, which is why the BSA folding paratrooper bicycle was far better on paper than on the battlefield.  

 

Chainrings on BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern have 46 teeth on the chainwheel and 18 teeth on the Mark X pattern freewheel rear sprocket which created a gear ratio of 2.555.  With the bicycle having 26-inch diameter wheels (circumference of the tire being 81,68 inches) each pedal stroke moved the bicycle forward 208.69 inches (81,68 inches x 2.555).  At 60 rotations per minute (RPM) this allowed for a speed close to 12 mph.  

 

  • Tire Circumference in inch = Tire diameter in inch x Pi (26 x 3,14159 = 81.68).  
  • Chainrings ratio = Number of teeth of the chainwheel / number of teeth of the rear sprocket (46 / 18 = 2.555).  
  • Distance in inches for one pedal stroke = Tire Circumference in inches x Chainrings ratio (81.68 x 2.555 = 208.70 inches).  
  • RPM = Number of pedal strokes in one minute.  
  • Distance forward in inches in one minute = Distance in inches for one pedal stroke x RPM (208.70 x 60 = 12,521.75 inches).  
  • Distance forward in feet in one hour = Distance forward in inches for one minute / 12 inches (12,521.75 inches/minute x 60 minutes = 751,304.97 inches/hour so 62,608,74 feet/hour).  
  • Speed in mph = Distance forward in feet in one hour / 5280 feet in one mile (62,608,74 feet/hour / 5280 feet = 11.86 mph).  

 

Speed in mph = (((((Tire Circumference in inches x Chainrings ratio) x RPM) x 60) / 12) / 5280)

So: ((((((26 x 3,14159) x (46 / 18) x 60) x 60) / 12) / 5280) = 11,86 mph

GOING TO BATTLE!

The War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 for A Canadian Parachute Battalion established at 16 the number of Bicycles, Folding, Airborne Pattern as follows:

  • Battalion Headquarters: one.  
  • Headquarters Company: total of 12 as follows: 
  • Signal Platoon: 10: and 
  • Mortar/Machine Gun Platoon (two platoons): one each for a total of two.  
  • Rifle Company Headquarters (three companies): one each for a total of three.  
  • Whilst in garrison, there was also 16 General Service (GS) bicycles (such as BSA Mark V) within the Administration Platoon of the Headquarters Company used for training and local transportation.  

There were three ways to bring the bike onto the battlefield.  

  • Attached to a parachutist.  After his parachute had opened, the parachutist would lower it at the end of a 20-foot rope in the same manner as for jumping with the leg bag.  Reversed, the bike saddle will touch the ground first and thus absorb the shock. 

Jumping with the Folding Airborne Bicycle.
Jumping with the Folding Airborne Bicycle.

  • Dropped by parachute. With a type Q parachute of 12 ft diameter. Again, the bicycle saddle wit hit the ground first.

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern with its Type D Parachute in position.
BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern with its Type D Parachute in position.

  • Loaded into a glider.

Airlanding troops with bicycles loading a Horsa glider prior to D Day. IWM CH 12826

In practice, the parachute units dropped them by parachute in groups of three to be recovered by the troops after landing and for the glider units in gliders.  The twin loop frame made of small diameter tubes provides low weight but maintains adequate rigidity.  After loosening the two large thumbscrews, the front half of the frame can be folded sideways to overlap the rear half.  

WAS IT SUCH A GOOD IDEA?

Was it much better on paper than on the battlefield? First, the bicycle had to survive the jump, either by jumping with it or dropped by parachute. Secondly, the tires once damaged will render the bike useless. Third, the very nature of airborne operations which required “pinpoint” and short-term military operations.

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern unfolded and folded.
BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern unfolded and folded.

SPECIFICATIONS

Production:

  • production started mid-1942 and probably ended by 1944.
  • Estimated that between 60,000 and 70,000 were made.
 

Serial number:

  • Starts with letter R followed by number.
  • Deeply stamped into the left rear drop out under axle.
  • 1 st Pattern: Up to R7XXX. Early model with seat mounted behind twin upright tubes.
  • 2nd Pattern: Starting at R12463. Highest recorded number so far is R72380.

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

Pedals

  • Rod type sliding in/out.  
  • The pedal crank has 22 ball bearings of 1/4″.  
  • Each pedal is retained by poppet ball of 7/32″ to retain pedal shaft in or out.  

Chain

  • 55 inches.  
  • No chainguard.  

Chainwheel

  • Has letters BSA in big cut-out letters.  
  • 46 teeth.  


Rear wheel sprocket

  • BSA Mark X Clutch.  
  • 18 teeth.  


Gear ratio

  • 2.555 (46/18).  

Brakes

  • Front and rear center-pull cable-operated caliper.

Wheel

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

Frame

Shape and construction

  • Made of steel.  
  • Elliptical.  
  • Wingnut-fastening hinge joints on the top tube down tube to allow the bike to fold in two.  

Size

  • Only on size of 21”.  

Weight

  • 32 lb (14.5 kg).  

Transfers

  • There are three on the bicycle: 
  • “Pattern № 543076 over Registry № 838413” in silver plus “Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow” in black steering head.  
  • BSA trademark on the saddle tube.  

Drivetrain

Pedals

  • Rod type sliding in/out.  
  • The pedal crank has 22 ball bearings of 1/4″.  
  • Each pedal is retained by poppet ball of 7/32″ to retain pedal shaft in or out.  

Chain

  • 55 inches.  
  • No chainguard.  

Chainwheel

  • Has letters BSA in big cut-out letters.  
  • 46 teeth.  


Rear wheel sprocket

  • BSA Mark X Clutch.  
  • 18 teeth.  


Gear ratio

  • 2.555 (46/18).  

Brakes

  • Front and rear center-pull cable-operated caliper.

Wheel

Spokes

  • Front: 32.  
  • Rear: 40.  

Rim

  • British standard steel rim F.4.  

Tires

  • War Grade.  

  • 26’’ x 1 3/8” (approximate outer diameter and tire width).  

  • Known makers included:
  • Avon Tyres.  
  • Dunlop Rubber Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.  
  • Invader.  
  • John Bull Rubber Co. Ltd.  
  • Michelin Tyre Company Ltd (most common).  
  • Same as: 
  • European Tire and Rim Technical Organization standard (ETRTO): ISO 37-590.  Vintage English frames like Raleigh.  
  • French: 650 x 35A.  

Tubes

  • 26” x 1-1/4” to 1-3/8”.  
  • Schreider type valve.  

 

Front set

Handlebar:

  • One-piece handlebar & stem.  
  • Made of steel.  
  • Wingnut on the top of the handlebar stem to allow to turn sideways for folding.  


Headstock

  • Has 62 x 1/8” ball bearings.  

Lamp Attachment

  • It was used to hold the Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric.  
  • Will support the Everest, Carrier as well.  
  • It shows the BSA trademark logo.  


Grips: 

  • Made of Bakelite showing the BSA trademark logo.  


Saddle area

Saddle (seat)

  • BSA, Leather, Model 40.  
  • BSA logo on both side and name at the back on a metal plate.  



Accessories

Everest Carrier:

  • Use to carry the Bergen on the front of the bicycle and the bicycle in the back if needed.  Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


Inflator (pump):

  • With the BSA trademark.  
  • Many other companies were supplying as well.  


Lamp, Bicycle, Front, Electric:

  • Not to be confused with Lamp Electric №1.  
  • Proper « female »attachment.  


Rifle holders

  • They were a unit modification depending on needs.  

Saddle bag:

  • Made of leather.  


Tools:

  • Include the following tools:
  • Spanner, Combination.  
  • Spanner, Combination, Cone.  
  • Puncture Repair Kit.  There were many suppliers.
  • Tire Levers.  


Valise

  • Used mainly by Royal Marine Commando.  


RESTORATION OF BSA BICYCLE, FOLDING, AIRBORNE PATTERN R36033

I acquired my BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne in December 2016 from a lad from Ottawa, Canada.  The bicycle was in a derelict state BUT, happily, all parts were there!  Sadly, the saddle (seat) was irreparably damaged.  The complete restoration took three weeks and was done over the Holidays 2016.

State of the bicycle

First, it must be said that the restoration was a work of love even if it was my first time at restoring a vintage military vehicle!  Space to work and to paint the Welbike was my first concern.  Fortunately, Reg Hodgson, well-known vehicle restorer and longstanding member and Director Emeritus of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), kindly allowed me access to his motor pool and provided much helpful advice. 

The bike in a pitiful state…but not for long!
Saddle severely damaged.

After inspection, I realised that the bicycle was in excellent condition and only required a good tune-up, a cosmetic restoration, new tires, a new saddle, new handlebars grips,
new transfers, and tools. The bicycle was completely dismantled including wheels, parts cleaned, and those with paint sandblasted and repainted.

Paint

While the frame was mainly painted in black, there were some parts on the bicycle that had green paint. It should be noted that black was the colour of the primer during the Second World War. Finding the right paint colour was a good challenge. The green was similar to Khaki Green G3 (KG3).

The basis for the camouflage pattern painting of military equipment was contained within Military Training Pamphlet (MTP) № 46, Part 4A: Painting of Mechanical Transport. This pamphlet, issued on 27 November 1941 contained guidance notes on the problems and basic principles of camouflage pattern painting of vehicles and was issued army wide. Vehicles were to be painted a basic camouflage colour, either Khaki Green G3 (KG3) or Standard Camouflage Colour (SCC) № 2 Brown. KG3, however, was rapidly replaced by SCC № 2 as stocks of Chromium Oxide required to make the Khaki Green paint became scarce. Equipment supplied from the United States were in US Olive Drab № 9. To produce uniformity, and to avoid repainting of US supplied vehicles, a British version of Olive Drab, SCC № 15, was introduced in the spring of 1944 as the basic colour, replacing SCC № 2. The SCC № 15 is slightly different than OD № 9. Initially, it was only to be used when repainting became necessary. Now the issue was to find the paint! After some research, I found that Krylon Camouflage Spray Paint, Ultra Flat, Olive was very close to the Olive Drab SCC № 15.

Transfers

New transfers were needed. I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited, in UK. Sadly, Stuart closed his business after 30 years due retirement.

Pattern № 543076 and Registry № 838413 plus Board of Ordnances Broad Arrow on the steering head.
BSA trademark on the saddle tube.

Tires

Tires were present with one being a “WAR GRADE”.  Obviously, new tires were necessary to replace these old ones.  I found on eBay UK a pair of 26 x1 3/8” (37-590) vintage of British Roadster black tires that a similar threat than the “WAR GRADE” ones.  New 

Grips

New grips were required.  I found them from Stuart Bray Motorcycles Limited.  Enthusiastic restorers sometimes offer reproductions.  

IMG-5882
Both left and right grips were similar.
IMG-5883
Both left and right grips were similar.

Saddle

Only the frame from the saddle was present on the bicycle.  Original BSA № 40 are barely unobtainable and if one is found, first the leather will be very brittle after so many years and secondly the price will be ridiculously exorbitant.  From time to time, someone will made reproductions.  So, since I wanted to ride the bicycle and not having a second mortgage on my house to buy an original one, I decided to look for a similar but modern pattern.  I discovered that the during the war that bicycles were also equipped with Brooks saddle.  I realized that the modern “Brook № 17” was a quasi-perfect match except for the missing oval stamped BSA trademark logo on the side and rear metal brand name.  I found the Brook № 17 saddle at Mountain Equipment Company (MEC).  It was the best solution to ride the bicycle.  

IMG-5884
Brooks Saddle № 17.
IMG-5885

Accessories

Like for the saddle, BSA inflator are barely unobtainable.  I found on eBay a contemporary inflator; the “Featherweight” made by Bluemel’s.  The saddle bag and tools were found on eBay.  

IMG-5888

BSA Bicycle, Folding, Airborne Pattern Serial R36033 now!

IMG-5890
IMG-5892

Conclusion

There will be more to see from our Quartermaster so…come to see us either at shows or our “micro” Museum!  The VPA’s “micro” museum is located at SEBARMS Guns, Gear and Collectibles, 11569 – 149 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 1W9.  The museum hours of operation are:

  • Tuesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Wednesday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Thursday: from 10 to 15 hours. 
  • Friday: from 10 to 15 hours. 

Until next time,

The Quartermaster

REFERENCES

Publications

Air Ministry, Air Publication 2453A, Volume 1, Part 4, Section 2, Chapter 1, Equipment attached to the parachutist, Airborne Bicycle, May 1946

Canadian Army, War Establishment (WE) Cdn III/127/2 – A Canadian Parachute Battalion, Approved under COS 139, Effective Date 19th May 1944

Gordon, David B., Equipment of the WWII Tommy, Revised and Expended Edition, Pictorial Histories Publishing Co., Missoula, Montana, 2010, 658 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1-57510-151-4

War Office, 26 G.S. Publication 919 – Airborne Operation Pamphlet № 1, General, May 1943

Internet

British Pathé, Factory Making Bikes And Mini Bikes (1943)www.youtube.com/watch?v=InudgELqCHg

CaptainStevens, BSA Airborne Bicycle www.captainstevens.com/military/mv/bsa-airborne-bicycle/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 1st Pattern: Early Twin Tube Model, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-ww2-bsa-airborne-bicycle-early-twin-tube-model/

The BSA & Military Bicycle Museum, 1942-1945 WW2 BSA Airborne Bicycle, 2nd Pattern, www.bsamuseum.wordpress.com/1942-1945-bsa-airborne-bicycle-para-bike/

Visual Collector, British BSA Folding Bicycle, www.visualcollector.com/OBLI/BSABike.htm

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Donate your prohibited firearm or firearm to the Valour Park Association. We have a prohibited firearms licence and can accept any firearm, including Prohibited Firearms.

Questions? Contact Hans J. Brink, CFSC Instructor.
780-906-6820