The 1888 New Rapid was illustrated in a catalogue issued by Samuel T. Clark of Baltimore, who were the American agents for St George’s Engineering Co. The model shown (below) had a ball-bearing steering head and a solid (narrow diameter) top tube that was advanced for its age. But it had a straight fork, and its chain adjustment was primitive, involving adjustable chain stays plus a stay to the bottom bracket that could be loosened or tightened by a nut at the top.
Logically, one would assume that they updated that model. This example is very similar, but has chain adjustment at the rear dropouts, and the front fork is curved. Also, its top tube is removable, making it suitable for either a male or female rider: this was known as a ‘Convertible’ and was the fashion around 1889-1890 in Britain and until 1893 in America. So I believe this to be an 1890 New Rapid.
It’s an older restoration and, apart from scratched paint here and there, is in excellent all round condition and ready to ride.
View in the Online Bicycle Museum
BICYCLE COLLECTORS CURATED ONLINE AUCTION, Spring 2026
This Timed Auction is live from 21st of March 2026 @ 2-30pm to 4th of April, 2026. 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, phone call, Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp.
