The cycle trade in Coventry grew out of the Coventry Sewing Machine Company, founded in 1863, which was finding it difficult to expand and decided to diversify. In 1868, their Paris agent obtained an order for 400 velocipedes to be exported to France, but the Franco-Prussian War forced the company to build up a home market instead and in 1869 the name was changed to the Coventry Machinist Company.
At this time, James Starley was foreman of the company and was instrumental in helping bring about several improvements to the basic Velocipede. However, in 1870 he left to set up business with William Hillman with whom he produced the Ariel.
Part of a private collection this example has a 48" driving wheel (which has been re-spoked and has a new tyre), 18" rear wheel with mounting step, 20" straight handle bars and moulded sockets to the forks for the fitting of foot rests which where an optional extra.
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