1892 Bicyclette Hirondelle Modele Superbe

Click here to view at The Online Bicycle Museum

(Now sold)

The Hirondelle is one of the most sought-after safety bicycles. Most are now in museums. This example is the same as the one on display at the Musée d’Art et d’Industrie in St Etienne, France.

It’s in very good all round original condition. A close inspection reveals two repairs over the years: on the handlebar, in the centre just under the T; and in front of the pedal crank bracket (hardly visible). The rear tyre is the hose type that used to be used on safety bicycles.

The saddle top is newer than the bicycle. However, I have a correct replacement one to go with it: it has a solid base to fit onto the arab spring, and is a Lamplugh & Brown ‘Long Distance’ model (photo further down the page).

The Hirondelle is owned by a friend in Europe, who has had it in his personal collection for the past 35 years. It’s ready to ride.