1887 Catalog - Rudge Light Roadster Section (Original Rudge advertising NOT about our R2 Repro)

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Backbone, forks, fellows, and spokes enamelled; the head, handle bar, hubs, cranks, step and pedals heavily nickelled.       The price includes BALL PEDALS (either rat-trap or rubber), Townsend patent saddle, handy tool bag, nickelled wrenches, adjustable step, and adjustable spade handles.       Each rise of two inches in size, $2.50 extra.       Nickled, except wheels, $12.50 extra.       The TIRES are round, seven-eighth inch full to front, and three-quarter inch to back, made of the very best quality red Para rubber. These have been deemed the best sizes for this machine, and are attached to the rim by a cement process, with great care and skill.       These tires have a wall-earned reputation for staying in, and can easily be replaced, when necessary, by the rider himself.       The FELLOES are of the Clement hollow pattern, consisting of one piece of steel tubing rolled and pressed into the proper shape, and capable of bearing a weight of two hundred pounds, even before a single spoke has been inserted.       The strength of this felloe will be realized when we state that among the thousands of Rudge Light Roadsters we have sent out, not one has been returned to us with a broken felloe that can be traced to the fault of the machine.       The HEAD is of the long-centre Andrews pattern, fitted with a dust shield which is entirely noiseless and entirely protects the head from dust. Five years' experience with this head has demonstrated that for durability, rigidity, and simplicity it remains unequalled; and we, therefore, adhere to it, rather than to run the risk of changing simply for the sake of advertising a novelty.       The BEARINGS. Two of the most important points in bicycle making are rigidity and minimum friction, and we would call your attention to one of the principal features of the Rudge cycles, which are fitted throughout with Rudge's unequalled ball bearings. For simplicity of construction and remarkable ease of running they have gained a world-wide reputation.       As ball-bearings are now of the greatest importance to cycles, we take pleasure in calling your attention to these famous bearings, which were invented by Daniel Rudge some nine years ago, and which have been made to revolve over six million times without incurring any perceptible wear or the shaking loose of any of the parts.       When the bearings require adjusting, unscrew the square-headed pin A that is in the lug of the bearing, as shown in Fig. 1.       This has the effect of loosening the disk, which can then be turned round in the direction the arrow is pointing in Fig. 1, until the bearing is sufficiently tight. Great care must then be taken to screw the square-headed pin A down tightly; otherwise, the disk is liable to shake loose when the machine is ridden.       Figs. 2 and 3 explain the principle of the bearing, in which the manner of adjustment may be readily observed.       Many manufacturers have tried to improve on these famous bearings, but without success, and the Rudge bearings are to-day, as they were eight years ago, without a rival, and so great is their popularity that many of the makers of other machines are forced to use them. To the superiority of the celebrated bearings for racing, coasting, or climbing hills, we refer you to the many thousands of riders of the Rudge.      The adjustment of the back wheel is quite as easily effected by unfastening the nut on the side where the milled washer is, and then turning the washer round with the fingers from left to right until the bearing is tight; the nut should be then firmly secured again.       The SPOKES are tangential, and present the following advantages over other of a similar pattern:-       First, the tendency of the tangential to snap at the rim is obviated by securing them with a concealed lock-nut and washer, making them practically but-ended, and doubly strong at this point.      Second, instead of lacing back and forth from the rim to the hub in nearly parallel directions, they now end at the hub and are firmly riveted on the Inside after passing through it. The spoke is thus single, and by being made heavier at the halt, the tendency of snapping is entirely done away with. The system of crossing is also a new one, and works to perfection, being accomplished by one spoke passing over and under another in such a way that each spoke holds its neighbor firmly in place, consequently, a rattle is impossible. Again, the spokes are placed at right angles to each other, which not only makes the wheel very much stronger and more rigid, but keeps it true and prevents any possibility of buckling by ordinary use.       The best recommendation for this particular spoke is the universal satisfaction it has given in the last three years.       Many manufacturers have tried to copy it, with a greater or less number of crosses, and the result has been that the wheel has been either too loose or far too rigid. If the spokes in a tangent wheel are not laced tightly, it will be found that when the rider is on the machine the upper spokes will be very tight, while those directly beneath him, on the under side of the wheel, will be found very loose, making it almost impossible for the wheel to be rigid and to stand the required strain. On the other hand, if the wheel is a complete network of spokes, crossing and recrossing, and all firmly brazed to each other, the wheel is practically solid, and although rigidity is to be desired, there must be sufficient give in the machine to be able to stand the wear and tear.       With the Rudge spoke it will be seen at a glance that it is unequalled for simplicity of construction, rigidity, and ease of replacing in case of breakage.       SADDLES. After trying nearly every saddle upon both the English or American market, we have come to the conclusion that the Townsend Combination Saddle and Spring is far ahead of anything yet introduced, and although several patent hammock saddles have filled the want to a certain extent, we believe that the Townsend combines more valuable features than any saddle extant.       We quote the following description from the leading English cycling paper, which speaks for itself: "One of the most successful efforts in the direction of a perfect saddle and spring has been made by Messrs. Townsend & Co., one of whose combination saddle and springs we have been testing constantly for the past six months with entirely satisfactory results. The front part of the spring is similar to the ordinary Rudge spring, having a slot in it of some two inches in length, to allow for adjustment, and running right under the saddle to the coil springs behind, upon which it tests and slides. The frame of the saddle is composed of specially manufactured round steel wire, which after being bent into the shape of the saddle, takes the form of two coil springs which descend to the backbone where they are secured by a clip. The leather top is blocked on and laced underneath, forming one of the most satisfactory seats imaginable. The seat is made from very soft specially tanned leather, of improved shape, thoroughly ventilated, and gives a seat of remarkable ease, and makes it in appearance and actual use one of the handsomest and most luxurious seats of the day, and as advertised, 'the only universal weight carrier,' this power being gained by the peculiar properties of the steel wire used and formation therewith of its springs.This saddle is suitable for a person weighing from one hundred and ten to two hundred pounds, as it can be adjusted to almost any weight by moving the saddle back and forth upon the springs. One great advantage of it is a side motion, which entirely prevents every particle of discomfort attendant upon other saddles, which have to be broken in before they are comfortable.       "Wherever Messrs, Townsend & Co's invention has been introduced, it has met with universal praise; and although this saddle has only been on the market the last year in the principal cycling centres, among amateurs, professionals, and the trade it has successfully passed through the ordeal, and is now being adopted by many of the leading manufacturers, so that we anticipate next season many inquiries for what we have no hesitation in calling one of the best things on the market."       We recommend, in defense of this article, our readers, one and all, to try the saddle and judge for themselves.       Note- The 1888 Kirkpatrick Saddle furnished if desired Instead of the Townsend for $2.50 extra.       The TREAD. Owing to the above method of building the wheels, it has been found that they can be built perfectly rigid, and at the same time, narrower than any other make. The advantages of this will be appreciated by all riders of experience, and particularly racing men, as it causes the power to be applied to the best possible advantage. It is due to the peculiar construction of the wheels that it has gained its present enviable reputation as a hill-climber.       The HUBS are of a specially improved pattern, made of the very finest steel, well recessed to admit of the narrow thread, and pierced with holes for the tangential spokes.       The FORKS. We have entirely reconstructed our pattern of forks for 1887, and now they are very full and oval in shape, being hollow to the front wheel and semi-tubular to the back, combining great strength and lightness. We have paid special attention to this point, and you can guarantee them to stand any ordinary strain.       The HANDLE BAR is cow-horn in shape, hollow, and made of steel tubing in one piece. Since the introduction of the Rudge some five years ago, we have endeavored to find a detachable handle-bar which would combine strength and rigidity, but our experience teaches us that it is better to adhere to what we know is thoroughly reliable than to make alterations or so-called improvements, which may or may not be found afterwards to be what is desired.       The tremendous strain which depends upon the handle-bar leaves us no room for experiments, and we are prepared to replace, without expense to the riders, any bar that breaks within two years, that can be shown to be the fault of the machine.       It is gracefully curved down at each end about two inches below the head, and is fitted at each end with spade handles.      SPADE HANDLES. The demand for this style of handle last year, and the ease with which hills could be climbed, demonstrated that is was coming into popular use, and we have decided to attach to all our Rudge Light Roadsters. Although we have no detachable handle bar, we have attached these handles in such a way that they can be detached in a few seconds. The hollow handle bar is threaded on the inside, and the handles screwed in, and are secured by a lock-nut, which holds them in any position that the rider desire.       The BRAKE is of spoon design, controlled by a powerful lever of good length, and fitted with a concealed brake spring under the head, which entirely prevents any rattle.       The CRANKS are of the latest pattern, detachable, and allow the power to be placed at a throw varying from four to three quarters to full six inches.      The PEDALS. We take great pleasure in calling your attention to Rudge's famous ball pedals, which are furnished with each Rudge Light Roadster, either rat-trap or rubber. No part of the machine requires more care than the pedals, and we think, without doubt that the riders will acknowledge that the Rudge pin is the strongest extant. Its peculiar construction allows the metal to be placed to the best possible advantage, and it combines great strength with lightness. It is a significant fact that, almost without exception, all records made in 1886, by any make of bicycle, the riders used the Rudge ball pedals. Comment is un-necessary.       The RAKE. This point has received our special attention for 1887, and varies from 1 3/4" to 2 3/4".       In summing up the points of the superiority of the Rudge Light Roadster for 1887, we wish to say that this wheel combines lightness, strength, and speed; but is not, in any sense of the word, the light roadster that which some manufactures build, and are only to be used on smooth roads.       We are willing to guarantee this machine to any person weighing under two hundred pounds, and challenge competition with machine ten pounds heavier. Although its name is the Rudge Light Roadster, and it is lighter than most roadsters,it is so named to distinguish it from the Rudge Roadster, with the direct spokes. It is built from the very best stock to be obtained, and by the largest manufacturer of bicycles in the world, namely, D. RUDGE & CO., Coventry, England.       The weight of a 50-inch Rudge Light Roadster, complete with saddle, stool, bag, and tools, is thirty-six and a half pounds.       The policy of Messrs. RUDGE & CO. has always been to give the best value for the money, and although in some cases their machines have been somewhat higher in price than others, they have invariably found that it paid to build the best, and as the riders fully realize that a cheap machine is dear at any price, they have no hesitation in paying a trifle more, and getting the best article that can be made. LIGHTNESS, SPEED, AND STRENGTH       We point with pride to the record of the Rudge since we have placed it upon the American Market five years ago.       Its principal points of construction remain practically the same, and its large and increasing sale each year proves most conclusively that its sale has not been dependent upon novelties which appear attractive at first sight, and are principally used for advertising.       The long list of famous riders of this splendid bicycle are the best recommendations of its worth, and have not felt the necessity of placing paid riders upon our machines to make records for us in races.       The success of the Rudge on the Road, Path, and on the Hill speaks for itself, and we firmly believe that for a roadster that contains the essential qualities of lightness, strength, and speed, it has no equal, and, we might say, no competitor. SUMMARY OF POINTS IN THE RUDGE LIGHT ROADSTER FOR 1887 BEARINGS. Rudge's unequalled ball bearings to both wheels and pedals. SADDLES. Townsend patent. STEERING HEAD. Long centre; Andrews patent. HANDLE BARS. Hollow weldless steel tubing, cow-horn shape. SPOKES. Single tangent, riveted at the hub, and attached at the rim with long tube nipples. HANDLES. Spade handles; detachable and perfectly adjustable. RIMS. Clement hollow; made in one piece without brazing. DUST SHIELD. Perfectly tight, with means for oiling head. FORKS AND BACKBONE TUBING. Very finest cold-drawn weldless steel. STEP. Latest pattern adjustable safety. CRANKS. Long, 6-inch throw. TIRES. Finest Para rubber; especially manufactured not to break. Corrugated rubbers. FINISH. Two styles. Standard, all nickel with exception of the backbone, forks, spokes, and rim. Extra, all nickelled but rims and spokes.       The above prices are for the machine complete, crated and delivered F.O.B. at BOSTON, MASS., with tools, tool bag, pedals, and saddles complete. Order sundries to be charged extra as per catalogue list. SPECIAL NOTICE       We have a few shop-worn RUDGE LIGHT ROADSTERS in stock, on which we would quote special prices if desired. Apply at once.       >>> Our adjustable Spade Handles can be fitted to all RUDGES. Price $5.00. TESTIMONIALS.       We select at random a few of the many hundreds we have received:-       I am more and more pleased with my Rudge Light Roadster; the more I ride it, I am convinced that there is not a machine on the market that runs more easily. I put my wheel to a severe test not long ago, by taking a quick run over a rocky road, and not a nut or bolt was loosened, so far as I know.       Yours truly, JOSEPH R. WILSON, Jr., Clarksville, Tenn.       I am much pleased with my 53-inch Rudge Light Roadster. Its faults are few, and its virtues many; among the latter are great rigidity, ease of propulsion, and quickness to respond to pressure on the pedals.       I have taken pleasure in your recommending it to many wheelmen this year.       Yours very truly, HENRY W. WILLIAMS, Boston, Mass.       I have ridden a Rudge Light Roadster for the past two years, and have found it very serviceable, easy running machine; and to any one intending to get a machine, I would say, by all means, get the Rudge.       Respectfully yours, J. E. Corry, Capt. Charlestown Bi. Club, Boston, Mass.       I ride a Rudge Light Roadster, and am proud of the machine. There is not and other make of machine in the market that I would exchange it for.       Very truly yours, WM. ALLEN, New York.       I wish to express my delight with the Rudge Light Roadster you sent me. I have given it a test as thorough as possible, in a few days' running, and am very greatly pleased with it.       Very truly yours, I. ELTING, Saugerties, Ulster County, N. Y.       The Rudge Light Roadster received day before yesterday. It is the acme of grace and elegance.       Very truly yours, B. B. AYER, L. A. W. Tourmaster, Chicago, ILL.       It is with pleasure that I testify to the excellent qualities of the Rudge Light Roadster as evidenced in the tour from New Orleans to Boston.       My wheel (a 53-inch) standing the unprecedented hard usage without loosening a nut or starting a spoke.       Having several years' experience with quite a variety of wheels, I can confidently recommend the Rudge as the perfection of cycle manufacture.       By next May I hope to complete 10,000 miles on my old 53: I have now over 7,250, all without a break.       Yours truly, C. M. FAIRCHILD, New Orleans.       I received my 58-inch Rudge Light Roadster last Thursday. It is the finest machine I ever saw. It runs so easy I don't know I am pedalling half the time.       Yours respectfully, W. W. BERRY, Capt. P. B. Club, Pittston, Pa.       I wish to say a word in praise of my 48-inch Rudge Light Roadster which I purchased while in Boston, during the L. A. W. Meet. I have pedalled it over some of Maine's roughest roads, and it stands the strain equal to the so-called full roadsters (weighing eight pounds more) I have ridden before, and I think better. It is (without exception) the best hill climber I have yet owned. These are no jumped-at conclusions, but the result of thorough tests. I say that it is all humbug for an experienced wheelmen to handicap himself with six or eight pounds of superfluous metal, and I think I may safely say that although riding a small machine, there is no harder rider in Central Maine than myself.       The spade handles must be tried to be appreciated. I wouldn't have any others.       Truly, GEORGE EDWARD DUNTON, Augusta, Me.       I received my Rudge Light Roadster; everything satisfactory; very much pleased. I think it is, without doubt, the finest machine I was ever on.       Yours, W. M. WOLFE, Hagerstown, Md.       The Rudge Light Roadster bicycle received the 25th. It is a model, and perfect in every respect, attracting unlimited attention.       Respectfully, CALDER BROTHERS, Terre, Haute, Ind.       I received my 54-inch Rudge Light Roadster some time ago. After giving it a thorough trial, I find it even better than I had expected.       Very truly yours, HARRY B. IIAULIER, Towanda, Brad. County, Pa.       The Rudge far surpassed my expectations for easy running and strength.       Very truly yours, A. A. WHEAT, Wheeling, W. Va.       Two weeks ago I took a trip to Detriot, Mich., and took my Rudge Light Roadster and gave it a thorough trial, as the pavements are very rough and a good many bad holes. I went with a gentleman who rode a 56-inch wheel of another make, and he said "that my machine would not stand the strain "; but when we arrived home, he had several spokes to tighten, while my machine was as tight its when we started. I am now satisfied that the Rudge Light Roadster can stand as much of a strain as any machine, and has the great advantage of being very light. I would not exchange my machine for any in the market.       Yours respectfully, HOWARD G. RIDGELEY, Springfield, Ill.       I think the Rudge Light Roadster is the easiest running and best wheel in town. Several of the riders have tried it, and say it runs easier than their machines. I take solid comfort riding it. Handles and bars are just correct.       Yours, DAVOL, Pres. of the Warren Bi. Club, Warren, R. I.       I feel it my duty to all bicycle riders who think of getting a new mount, and also future riders, to let them know what my opinion of your wheel is.       I am one of the three who rode from New Orleans to Boston in thirty days; the wheel I used was the Rudge Light Roadster; and I will warrant no light roadster of any make was ever put to a severer test and stood it as well. Its condition upon reaching my destination proved surprisingly good. excepting a few spokes which became loose, through much bumping on cross ties of railroads, over which I walked, for a distance of about three hundred miles, no damage was sustained. My advice now will be to all my friends, who contemplate wheels, that the Rudge Light Roadster is the best.       Now, having given vent to my enthusiasm over your wheel. I remain.       Yours truly, HARRY W. FAIRFAX, New Orleans to Boston Tourist, New Orleans.

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