In their 1936 catalogue, New Hudson announced the “Patent Pressed Steel Girder Frame” as an “…entirely new method of frame construction that is tremendously strong, rigid, light, lively and distinctive in appearance” as well as “…embodying the latest aero practice, one piece chain and back stays, bolted together with nickel steel bolts.”
As the frame easily breaks down into separate parts, it’s a strong frame design suitable for unmade roads. As it is also named the “Empire,” I am sure it was designed with export in mind.
There are not many survivors of this pressed steel frame model, so it’s good to discover this unrestored example in excellent original condition. There’s one thing that makes it even rarer though, and completely unique – it’s not badged as a New Hudson but, according to its original transfers, it is a New Rapid!
New Hudson Cycle Co took over New Rapid Cycle Co around 1907, so presumably owned the name. But I’ve not seen any other New Hudson bicycles of this era badged as a New Rapid. Even the saddle is unusual – it’s a Brooks ‘Plyflex’, a model introduced around the same time and not often seen. This unique New Rapid Empire Girder is in good condition all round and ready to ride.
View in the Online Bicycle Museum
BICYCLE COLLECTORS CURATED ONLINE AUCTION, Autumn 2025
This Timed Auction is live from 24th August 12:00 to 28th September 2025, 18:00 with 2 minute intervals between lots. Highest bid wins.
NO BUYERS or SELLERS PREMIUM.
THE RESERVE IS THE START PRICE + BUY-IT-NOW OPTION.
INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY: NO PACKING FEES.
BIDDING INCREMENTS: Up to £1000 = £10. Over £1000 = £50. Over £2000 = £100
IT’S A CURATED AUCTION – Colin is the auctioneer and is available to chat to you personally during the auction (or before) by email, text message, phonecall, Facebook Messenger or Whatsapp.
Auction History
Auction has finished
Auction failed because there were no bids| August 20, 2025 12:00 pm | Auction started | ||
