The New England manufacturers of two-wheeled velocipedes, next in prominence to Messrs. Sargent & Kimball, are William H. Brownell & Co., of New Bedford, George E. Elliott, of Providence, and Messrs. Dalzell & Sons, of South Egremont.
William H. Brownell & Co., of New Bedford, manufacture only the cheaper kind of velocipedes. The frame or reach, which curves over the rear wheel, is built of wrought iron. The machine is without springs or metal gearings. This is used almost exclusively in the New England schools and rinks; and for the use of the beginner, or on smooth floors, gives merited satisfaction. It is not as suitable for the road, or as easy for the rider, as the more expensive machines, which are furnished with springs, brakes, and rests for the feet. But for those who wish to have a bicycle, with as small an expenditure as possible, this machine will answer as well as any that we know. It is firm and durable, moderately light, and does not get easily out of repair.
Messrs. Brownell & Co. have sold $40,000 worth of machines in the last three months, and the demand is far greater than the supply. They are as heavily engaged in the business as any manufacturers in the country. The price varies from $70 to $90. A good machine of Mr. Brownell’s make can be obtained for $75.
George C. Elliott, of Providence, has purchased a license under the Lallement patent, for the exclusive manufacture of the two-wheeled velocipede in Rhode Island. He combines the French machine with the usual American improvements. The prices are the same as are demanded for other good machines.
Those who have used Mr. Elliott’s bicycles claim that they are the equal of any manufactured.
Messrs. Dalzell & Sons, of South Egremont, Massachusetts, manufacture a velocipede which has many of the merits of that of the Wood Brothers. Their velocipede works are at Hudson, N. Y., and there is a steadily increasing demand for their machines. The prices vary from $125 to $150.
G. F. Perkins & Co., of Haydenville, Mass., advertise to furnish a velocipede with steel springs for $40. We do not know that their machine has been fairly tested. We have never seen it in use, and are unable to speak of its merits.