This photo is of one of our customers riding his first time-trial. Peter Crowsley took part in the Kentish Wheelers Novice 25 miles, on 25th March 1951. At that time it was compulsory for all race competitors to dress in black clothing.
The bicycle was a Bates BAR (now quite sort after) and the unusual front forks, called “Diadrant”, were supposed to absorb road shock. The gearing was 81″ fixed wheel.
The course, starting and finishing near Earlswood Lakes was partly on the old London to Brighton road – now part of the Gatwick Airport main runway.
Recording a time of 1hour 10mins 57seconds, Peter finished about two-thirds down the field – the winner clocked a time of 1hour 4minutes.
“I found the frame extremely rigid and uncomfortable, and only kept it a year or two”.
Peter Crowley, Forest Row Bike Club & Veteren C.C.
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