Folding Bicycle [BSA]
Maker and role
Birmingham Small Arms Company, Manufacturer
Production date
1940s
Object detail
Accession number
2015.110
Production period
Description
Folding bicycle manufactured by the Birmingham Small Arms Company during WWII for use by paratroopers for transportation behind enemy lines and also for ground troops. The dual tube frame was one of BSA's earlier designs with two wing nuts for folding bicycle in half however the saddle/seat is not original to this model. Includes single front brake, headlamp socket and mounting frame to hold tyre pump above rear tyre.
Brief History
This is a Birmingham Small Arms Company ‘Airborne’ Folding Paratroopers Bicycle with the serial number R34389. The bicycle features a dual tube frame which could be folded with the turn of two butterfly screws. They were foldable so that a parachutist could jump out of an aircraft with the bicycle and then aid movement on ground by airborne soldiers. They were advertised as having “indispensable lightness, rigidity and durability” after years of experimentation on the design.
Marks
BSA Initials
Media/Materials
Credit Line
Birmingham Small Arms Company. 1940s. Folding Bicycle [BSA], 2015.110. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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