Pierce 1901 Catalog — The Eleventh Annual Catalogue, from the Regular Line to the Cushion Frame Chainless and the Pan-American Special

Catalog 1901 34 pages United States

Source: Scans by Brian D. Szafranski of Elma, New York, posted to the Internet Archive in December 2022 under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 license, and shown here as he made them. retrobike.co.uk serves re-encoded copies of the same scans.

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About this document

Marque	Pierce
Type	Catalog
Year	1901
Publisher	The George N. Pierce Company
Country	United States
Language	English
Pages	34
Source	Scans by Brian D. Szafranski of Elma, New York, posted to the Internet Archive in December 2022 under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 license, and shown here as he made them. retrobike.co.uk serves re-encoded copies of the same scans.
Credit	Brian D. Szafranski (Internet Archive)
Identifier	Internet Archive 1901-geo-n-pierce-bicycles-buffalo-ny
Transcription	Transcribed by eye

Transcription

PIERCE CYCLES. TRIED AND TRUE A Study in VIBRATION. 1901 GEO. N. PIERCE CO. BUFFALO-BOSTON-NEW YORK-DENVER. 1901 ELEVENTH ANNUAL CATALOGUE ESTABLISHED 1865. INCORPORATED 1896. PIERCE CYCLES BRANCHES 89 CHAMBERS ST. NEW YORK. WHOLESALE & RETAIL. 190 HIGH ST. FORT HILL SQ. BOSTON, MASS. WHOLESALE 709. 17TH ST. DENVER, COL. WHOLESALE & RETAIL. 94. SOUTH 2ND …

Read the full transcription (34 pages)

The Pierce Cycles catalog for 1901, complete: both covers, the title page and printed pages 2 to 32. The fold-out pages 16 and 17 were scanned in two overlapping parts; both inside covers are blank.

— Page 1 (front cover) —
PIERCE CYCLES.

TRIED AND TRUE

A Study in VIBRATION.

1901

GEO. N. PIERCE CO. BUFFALO-BOSTON-NEW YORK-DENVER.

[The color front cover of the 1901 Pierce Cycles catalog, a composed rider on a black bicycle at left and a rider drawn in shaking lines on a red bicycle at right passing a brick wall, with the legend “A Study in Vibration” between them. An arrow runs through the initial P of the title, and the firm’s name and four cities run along the foot.]

— Page 2 —
1901 ELEVENTH ANNUAL CATALOGUE

ESTABLISHED 1865.
INCORPORATED 1896.

PIERCE CYCLES

BRANCHES
89 CHAMBERS ST. NEW YORK. WHOLESALE & RETAIL.
190 HIGH ST. FORT HILL SQ. BOSTON, MASS. WHOLESALE
709. 17TH ST. DENVER, COL. WHOLESALE & RETAIL.
94. SOUTH 2ND ST. SAN JOSE, CAL. WHOLESALE.

RETAIL SALES DEPOT
566 MAIN ST. BUFFALO, N.Y.
25 WEST 42ND ST. NEW YORK.
66 WEST 125TH ST. NEW YORK.
1080 BEDFORD AVE.. BROOKLYN.

WORKS 6 TO 24 HANOVER ST. BUFFALO, N.Y.

THE GEORGE N. PIERCE COMPANY MAKERS
6 TO 24 HANOVER ST.
BUFFALO,
N.Y.U.S.A.

[The title page of the Pierce Cycles 1901 Eleventh Annual Catalogue, a halftone of a great waterfall with the head and shoulders of a woman rising at its crest and a line of trees and flag-topped towers beyond. The firm’s branches, retail sales depots and works are listed at left and its name and Buffalo address at right.]

— Page 3 —
PREFACE

THE opening of the twentieth century finds the bicycle the accepted vehicle of the people. The fad has passed, the era of simple economy in transportation has come. No creation of man has ever been perfected before which carried so large a percentage of weight in proportion to its own weight. No device has ever been suggested which affords more economy, health, and pleasure, than the bicycle. Accepting these facts, the George N. Pierce Company has put its entire energies upon the development of perfection in road models, having exhausted all the previous experience of builders. The result has been the development of the cushion frame models. First, the chain driven, which, with the coaster brake, marked the acme of construction in 1899; second, the chainless of 1900; and third, the Pan-American Special of 1901, combining the cushion frame, chainless, with hub coaster brake. No maker has ever equalled this model. In the future they may copy, but they cannot excel. The George N. Pierce Company, by its own enterprise and foresight, has thus been carried to a position as builders of fine

[The first page of the Preface, under a boxed heading, its initial T set over a picture of a woman cycling in a crowd beneath paper lanterns lettered with the name Pierce. The text continues on the next page.]

— Page 4 —
wheels second to none, and far in the van. This development has given the people, at a fair price, models of comfort, beauty, and lasting value never before attempted. That this enterprise has been appreciated is attested by every rider conversant with these models, but calls forth from both agents and competitors alike enthusiastic praise. The era of the lumber wagon has gone, the era of the luxurious vehicle is started.

The Pierce line for 1901 represents all that is good, based on past experience, and with an eye single for serving the riding public with a wheel representing the maximum of economy, health, pleasure, and comfort, with a minimum of annoyance, repairs, and accident. The prices of Pierce wheels when in excess of other makes represents a positive saving to riders in subsequent cash outlay. The Pan American Exposition, to be held in Buffalo from May first to November first, 1901, will open the twentieth century with an exhibit of what the Americas can produce in mechanics, arts, and all the allied sciences. We have arranged to call our latest and best production by the same title as representative of the best the bicycle builder has produced.

THE GEORGE N. PIERCE CO.

[The second page of the Preface, two paragraphs of text in a ruled frame signed by The George N. Pierce Co.]

— Page 5 —
$75.00

Men’s Models.
When combined with New Departure Hub Coaster Brake these models are known as PAN-AMERICAN SPECIALS,
292. 22 inch frame.
294. 24 inch frame.
296. 26 inch frame.

Women’s Models.
When combined with New Departure Hub Coaster Brake these models are known as PAN-AMERICAN SPECIALS.
298. 22 inch frame.
299. 24 inch frame.

[The Pierce men’s and women’s chainless cushion frame models 292 to 299 shown in two halftone panels against an engraving of the Pan-American Exposition’s towers and pavilions, priced at $75.00 on a ribbon between them. The man’s bicycle has a diamond frame and the woman’s a drop frame with a guard over the rear wheel; no folio is printed on this page.]

— Page 6 —
Rear View of Chainless.

[The specification table for the Pierce man’s chainless cushion frame models 292, 294 and 296 and the woman’s models 298 and 299, regular equipment and options side by side, beside a photograph of a chainless bicycle seen from behind.]

— Page 7 —
$55.00

Men’s Models.
282. 22 inch frame.
284. 24 inch frame.
286. 26 inch frame.

Women’s Models.
288. 22 inch frame.
289. 24 inch frame.

[The Pierce men’s models 282, 284 and 286 and women’s models 288 and 289, both with chain drive, shown in two halftone panels against an engraving of the Pan-American Exposition’s towers and pavilions, priced at $55.00 on a ribbon between them. The woman’s bicycle has a drop frame, a chain guard and a guard over the rear wheel; no folio is printed on this page.]

— Page 8 —
Rear View of Cushion Frame.

[The specifications of the Pierce man’s cushion frame models 282, 284 and 286 and the woman’s cushion frame models 288 and 289, regular and optional, beside a photograph of a cushion frame bicycle seen from the rear. The table is headed by the word “Specifications” in a decorative scroll cartouche.]

— Page 9 —
$50.00

Models.
271. 21 inch frame.
272. 22 inch frame.
273. 23 inch frame.

[The Pierce models 271 to 273, a diamond frame bicycle with dropped handlebars and a chain drive, photographed in a wreathed oval against an engraving of towered exhibition buildings and strolling crowds, priced at $50.00. A small hand-lettered engraver’s signature, apparently “Buff Elec & Eng Co”, sits in the drawing at the foot of the wreath; the page carries no printed folio.]

— Page 10 —
Pierce Racers

Pierce racers, both for road and track use, have met with universal success. The graceful lines, rigid construction, and easy running qualities, together with their past record, insure the purchasers of this model absolute perfection in this type of machine. Innumerable famous riders have “won their spurs,” and kept them, on “Pierce” racers. Loughead, in 1897, won the national championship; Collett, in 1898, won the greatest number of amateur points; Kramer, in 1899, as an amateur, won the national championship, and in 1900, as a professional, won second place. These are only a few of our racing laurels.

[The Pierce Racers, models 271 to 273, described in a paragraph naming the riders Loughead, Collett and Kramer, beside the specifications of the models for track use and for road use, regular and optional. The table is headed by the word “Specifications” in a decorative scroll cartouche.]

— Page 11 —
$50.00

Men’s Models.
261. 21 inch frame.
262. 22 inch frame.
263. 23 inch frame.
264. 24 inch frame.
265. 25 inch frame.

Women’s Models.
267. 20 inch frame.
268. 22 inch frame.
269. 24 inch frame.

[The Pierce men’s models 261 to 265 and women’s models 267 to 269 photographed in two panels on either side of an engraved tower, against an engraving of towered exhibition buildings and crowds, priced at $50.00 on a ribbon banner. The women’s machine has a drop frame, a chain guard and a laced rear wheel guard; the page carries no printed folio.]

— Page 12 —
Rear View of Special.

[The specifications of the Pierce man’s special models 261 to 265 and the woman’s special models 267 to 269, regular and optional, beside a photograph of a special seen from the rear. The table is headed by the word “Specifications” in a decorative scroll cartouche.]

— Page 13 —
$40.00

Men’s Models.
251. 21 inch frame.
252. 22 inch frame.
253. 23 inch frame.
254. 24 inch frame
255. 25 inch frame.

Women’s Models.
257. 20 inch frame.
258. 22 inch frame.
259. 24 inch frame.

[The Pierce men’s models 251 to 255 and women’s models 257 to 259 photographed in two panels on either side of an engraved tower, against an engraving of towered exhibition buildings and crowds, priced at $40.00 on a ribbon banner. The engraved setting is the one used for models 261 to 269; the women’s machine has a drop frame, a chain guard and a laced rear wheel guard, and the page carries no printed folio.]

— Page 14 —
Pierce Regular Line

Is high class in every respect. The equipment is the best known to the trade. The various heights of frame leave nothing to be desired. The mechanical construction and quality of material used throughout are the best. Its value is the equal of any rigid frame bicycle produced. Its style is unsurpassed. It represents the high point in simple rigid frame bicycle construction. The special on pages 10 and 11 represent the same careful construction and symmetry of parts with the highest grade of equipment. Nothing could be better in any respect.

[The Pierce Regular Line, men’s models 251 to 255 and women’s models 257 to 259, described in a short paragraph beside their specifications, regular and optional. The table is headed by the word “Specifications” in a decorative scroll cartouche.]

— Page 15 —
HANDLE BARS.

NOTE.— Brake cannot be fitted to reversible bars.

212
REVERSIBLE.
Up-turned position. 3½ inches up or down. 212. 21 inches wide. 211. 19 inches wide.

212
REVERSIBLE.
Down-turned position.

218
STATIONARY.
Up-turned position. 19 inches wide, 4 inches up-turn.

132
RACER—STATIONARY.
18 inches wide, 3 inches forward, 5½ inches drop.

141
STATIONARY.
20 inches wide, 3 inches forward, 3½ inches drop.

142
V RACER—STATIONARY.
18 inches wide, 3 inches forward, 6½ inches drop.

222
REVERSIBLE.
Forward extension. Upturned position. 21 inches wide 2¾ inches extension clip, 3½ inches up or down.

222
REVERSIBLE.
Forward extension. Down-turned position.

[Eight Pierce handle bars photographed on their stems in two rows of four, each captioned with its number, type and dimensions: the reversible bar 212 in both its positions, the stationary bars 218 and 141, the racer bars 132 and 142 and the reversible forward extension bar 222 in both its positions. A note at the top right says that a brake cannot be fitted to reversible bars.]

— Page 16 —
SADDLES.

Troxel No. 30-B.

Sager No. 21.

Wheeler Standard.

Troxel No. 10-A.

Sager No. 4.

Troxel No. 40-B.

Sager No. 34.

Persons.

[Eight bicycle saddles photographed on seat posts in two rows of four and captioned with their makers and numbers: Troxel No. 30-B, Sager No. 21, Wheeler Standard, Troxel No. 10-A, Sager No. 4, Troxel No. 40-B, Sager No. 34 and Persons. The Troxel, Sager and Wheeler saddles carry their names on the tail of the cover, and the Persons saddle has a decorated top.]

— Page 17 —
1901

Catalogue Numbers Chainless Parts.

1—Cover gear.
2—Gear rear drive shaft.
3—Nuts drive shaft.
4—Nuts drive shaft lock.
5—Screw rear drive shaft adjusting cone lock.
12—Sleeve hub gear adjusting.
13—Nut adjusting sleeve lock.
14—Guards rear hub dust.
15—Bracket center.
16—Bracket right side.
17—Bracket left side.
24—Washers crank bracket ball retaining.
25—Washers crank bracket felt.
26—Cone left crank adjusting.
27—Cone right crank adjusting.
28—Washers crank adjusting cone.
35—Gear front drive shaft.
36—Shaft drive.
37– Cone rear hub.
38—Washers rear hub felt.
39—Flange [?] rear cone.
40—Cups rear hub.

[The top of the fold-out: a sectional drawing headed 1901 of the Pierce bevel gear chainless drive, showing the crank bracket and its bevel gears at the left and the rear hub at the right, joined by the drive shaft in its stay, against a cloudy ground. Reference numbers 1 to 47 key the drawing to the parts list below, of which this image holds the first rows of each of the four columns; the rest of the list is in the next image. A fold crease with a grimy mark crosses the list at entries 5, 15, 16, 27 and 39.]

— Page 18 —
[The top of this image repeats the last rows of the list from the image before; those rows are transcribed there.]

6—Flange rear drive shaft adjusting cone.
7—Cone rear drive shaft adjusting.
8—Cup rear drive shaft.
9—Hub rear.
10—Gear rear hub.
11—Nut rear hub gear lock.
18—Screw crank bracket side.
19—Cone center bracket adjusting.
20—Lock center bracket adjusting cone.
21—Retainer center bracket ball.
22—Washers center bracket felt.
23—Cups crank bracket.
29—Nut left crank adjusting cone lock.
30—Axle crank.
31—Screws gear.
32—Nuts gear screws.
33—Gear crank.
34—Nut right crank adjusting cone lock.
41—Axle rear.
42—Sleeve rear cone.
43—Retainer rear drive shaft ball.
44—Cup front drive shaft.
45—Cone front drive shaft.
46—Retainer front drive shaft ball.
47—Nuts crank axles.

Pierce Cushion Frame Chainless.

THE advantages of the bevel gear chainless are too well known to need explanation, and the ease and comfort of the cushion device are so firmly established that the combination of these two must at once appeal to those who desire the best and latest features in cycle making. Not only is the cushion frame chainless exceedingly neat and trim in appearance, but the devices for combining these points are very simple. The rear stays and crank box, which contain the gears, are entirely independent of the main part of the frame and form at the crank bracket a large rocker ball bearing. The two sides being firmly fastened together at the crank bracket, oscillate on this bearing, performing the same work, in conjunction with the cushion, as the flat steel spring on the chain driven model (See z, page 23). The upper rear stays are hinged to the lower rears, as in the chain wheel, making it impossible for the gears to get out of alignment from jolts or vibration.

The Leland-Faulconer gears are recognized as the standard gears of the world. They are hardened after cutting and then ground to gauge, and in this manner produce a perfect gear. The center drive mechanism obviates any tendency to side play, and gives a wonderful effect in power and smoothness.

Aside from oiling, care of tires, and ordinary cleaning of outside parts, the machine requires no attention from the rider.

16–17

[The bottom of the fold-out, holding the rest of the numbered list of Pierce chainless parts and the text “Pierce Cushion Frame Chainless.” set in two columns. The text describes the bevel gear drive, the rocker ball bearing at the crank bracket and the Leland-Faulconer gears. The same fold crease and grimy mark seen in the image before cross the top of the list.]

— Page 19 —
Pierce Pan-American Special.

Practically everything touching the development of the modern bicycle has taken place within twenty years. As early as the beginning of the past century crude and awkward articles were produced. None being practical, they were soon forgotten. Inventive genius, however, was at work. The leading nations of the world were interested. From the pedestrian velocipede of 1818 we have today the marvellous perfection in cycling that has placed in the hands of this generation the modern bicycle.

The introduction of the pneumatic tire in 1890 produced the greatest epoch in bicycle manufacturing. Still, there seemed to be something lacking to fully obtain perfect enjoyment in cycling. The constant jars and jolts, even on smooth roads, produced a hindrance that must be overcome.

In 1898, we placed upon the market the PIERCE cushion frame model, and its success from the start was phenomenal. Trim and neat in appearance, its intrinsic merit appealed at once to the most skeptical, and demonstrated to the world the solution of ease and comfort in bicycling.

The bevel gear, as a mode of transmitting power, has been proven far superior to the chain; so, after months of study and experimenting, we produced the famous cushion frame, bevel gear chainless bicycle, which, fitted with hub coaster and brake, marks the high water mark in bicycle perfection.

After careful and exhaustive tests in the selection of gears for this justly famous model, we adopted the Leland-Faulkner bevel gears, famous for their accuracy and smoothness; and so we are able to offer to the riding public a model embodying more improvements, and each one of distinctive merit, than any bicycle known to the trade today.

The coaster and brake on this wheel is of the hub pattern, powerful and simple in construction, coasting with absolute freedom, yet enabling the rider to instantly control his mount on all occasions. The claims we make for these models are broad, but experience justifies us in reiterating them, as follows:

[A page of text headed “Pierce Pan-American Special.” that introduces the model. It traces the bicycle from the velocipede of 1818 through the pneumatic tire of 1890 to the Pierce cushion frame model of 1898, then presents the cushion frame bevel gear chainless with its hub coaster and brake and its Leland-Faulkner bevel gears. It ends on “as follows:”, leading to the claims on the next page.]

— Page 20 —
Experience
justifies us in reiterating these claims for the cushion frame.

FIRST.
It is a positive cushion, taking up the shock caused by obstructions on uneven road surfaces, instead of requiring the rider to do so in his body.

SECOND.
It is simple and effective.

THIRD.
It is unobtrusive in appearance.

FOURTH.
It does not vibrate, but causes the wheels to accommodate themselves to uneven surfaces, while the rider maintains a uniform position.

FIFTH.
It enables the rider to exert power equally, unmindful of the roughness of road surface.

SIXTH.
It obliterates every objection to cycling on the part of delicate persons.

SEVENTH.
It saves the nerves and vitality of the rider.

EIGHTH.
It lengthens the life of the wheel.

NINTH.
It accomplishes perfect resilience without dependence on the tire, and thus allows the use of harder tires.

TENTH.
It is the grandest road wheel ever produced.

[A page of text headed “Experience justifies us in reiterating these claims for the cushion frame.” listing 10 numbered claims for the Pierce cushion frame, from FIRST to TENTH, in two columns.]

— Page 21 —
WHAT DEALERS SAY:

Rochester, N. Y., August 31, 1900.
The Pierce chainless bicycle seems to be as nearly perfect as a bicycle can be made.
(Signed) Smith & Palmer.

Great Falls, Mon., September 5, 1900.
The cushion frame is the greatest improvement ever made on a bicycle.
(Signed) Bennett & Hirsch.

Tacoma, Wash., October 8, 1900.
Your cushion frame chainless and rigid frame bicycles have more than pleased my customers.
(Signed) J. J. Mulholland.

Louisville, Ky., October 9, 1900.
We can truly say that your wheels are all right.
(Signed) Williams Bicycle Messenger Co.

Kansas City, Mo., October 11, 1900.
I am greatly pleased with Pierce wheels. I believe them to be the best I have handled this year.
(Signed) C. W. Zufelt.

Stevens Point, Wis., October 5, 1900.
The Pierce line has been entirely satisfactory. We have learned to respect the name-plate “Pierce,” and do not hesitate to recommend them as goods equal to anything made.
(Signed) Hoeffler Mfg. Co.

Detroit, Mich., October 15, 1900.
Your chainless, without a question, is the greatest improvement during the history of the safety bicycle. We have sold Pierce wheels for two seasons and numbering into the hundreds. There is due much credit for the satisfaction they have given.
(Signed) W. C. Rands & Co.

South Bend, Ind., October 4, 1900.
We are agents for a great many wheels but yours beats them all, and we expect to sell a great many of the chainless next year.
(Signed) Frazier & Frazier.

Syracuse, N. Y., September 22, 1900.
The Pierce cushion frame chainless has caused us no trouble whatever. We believe it is all that can be desired in a bicycle.
(Signed) Spaulding & Co.

Grand Rapids, Mich., September 5, 1900.
Your cushion frame chainless is O. K. Next year will drop all others.
(Signed) Otto P. Kutsche.

Toledo, O., October 11, 1900.
We cannot see where you can improve upon your chainless cushion frame.
(Signed) J. G. Swindeman & Co.

[A page of 11 dealers’ letters under the heading “WHAT DEALERS SAY:”, set in three columns, each with its place and date (August 31 to October 15, 1900) and its signature. The letters come from dealers in Rochester, Great Falls, Tacoma, Louisville, Kansas City, Stevens Point, Detroit, South Bend, Syracuse, Grand Rapids and Toledo.]

— Page 22 —
WHAT RIDERS SAY:

The Pierce cushion frame is the most satisfactory wheel I have ridden during my twenty years of cycling.
(Signed) F. L. Bates.

Am more enthusiastic about your cushion frame chainless than I ever dared to think.
(Signed) John S. Newberry.

For solid comfort there is absolutely nothing equal to the Pierce cushion frame.
(Signed) C. S. DuMont.

Just as much difference between the cushion frame and the rigid frame as a lumber wagon and a side bar buggy for ease and comfort,
(Signed) Samuel L. Malick.

In March, 1898, I started to ride the Pierce cushion frame. Have covered ten thousand miles and it is still in perfect condition.
(Signed) Guthrie Gray.

I would not sell my cushion frame for $150 if I could not get another.
(Signed) W. A. Chatfield.

After using your cushion frame for a time, it is no longer a luxury but a necessity for comfort.
(Signed) H. S. Wood.

The Pierce cushion frame adds to our enjoyment and our health.
(Signed) J. H. Chapin.

I used to be saddle sore, but with the cushion frame I can ride further with less discomfort and more speed.
(Signed) M. Roberts.

For light running and hill climbing the Pierce cushion frame chainless cannot be excelled.
(Signed) H. S. Alderman.

The Pierce cushion frame chainless is perfection.
(Signed) E. Harnibrook.

There is no question but that the Pierce cushion frame is the finest bicycle on the market.
(Signed) Arthur F. Ferris.

When I rode a rigid frame wheel I used to avoid badly paved streets. Now there is no street in too bad a condition to intimidate me.
(Signed) George Jerrett.

Yours is the best bicycle I have ever ridden.
(Signed) Richard Harding Davis.

NOTE.—These expressions have been gleaned from a large correspondence. We could produce hundreds of similar expressions, but owing to lack of space cannot reproduce them. We herewith return our thanks to our friends herein quoted, and all who have so favored us with their experience.

[A page of 14 short signed testimonials from riders praising the Pierce cushion frame, set in three columns inside a ruled border under the heading “WHAT RIDERS SAY:”, with a closing note in bold type. The testimonials carry no datelines or addresses.]

— Page 23 —
Cushion Frame Parts.

1—Spiral spring, which keeps the cushion distended.
2—Brass cartridge, in which the lower and large end of the spring is seated.
3—Plunger, in which the upper and small end of the spring is seated.
4—Bushing, into which the plunger fits.
5—Upper rear tube.
6—Leather washer.
7—Steel washer.
8—Dust cap.
B—Complete cushion, ready for use.

Cushions.
For 22 inch frame, cushion A.
For 24 inch frame. cushion B.

Regular Specifications.
With cushion A, spring No. 2.
With cushion B, spring No. 3.

Springs.
Rider, 100 to 125 lbs., No. 1.
Rider, 125 to 150 lbs., No. 2.
Rider, 150 to 175 lbs., No. 3.
Rider, 175 to 200 lbs., No. 4.
Rider, 200 to 250 lbs., No. 5.
Rider, 250 to 300 lbs., No. 6.

When necessary to deviate from regular specifications, please state spring number required.

When ordering extra springs, designate number and whether for cushion A or B. We suggest that agents supply themselves with extra springs, which we furnish at a nominal price.

[Drawings of the parts of the Pierce cushion frame’s spring cushion: the complete cushion marked B, the plunger, the bushing with its leather and steel washers, the brass cartridge, the spiral spring and a cutaway view of the cushion assembled in its forked tube, beside a numbered parts list, spring numbers by rider weight and ordering notes. Reference numbers 1 to 8 and the letter B key the drawings to the list; the cartridge in the cutaway view is lettered “AIR CUSHION” twice.]

— Page 24 —
V—Is the bottom or crank bracket of the Chainless Cushion Frame. The side plates sustaining the lower rear tubes are independent of the bracket, and are given perfect freedom of movement by a ball bearing upon their entire circumference.

X—Is the cushion, bolted to the seat-post bracket.

Y—Is the hinge joint at rear fork ends.

Z—Is the flat spring at crank bracket, made of three sheets of Disston saw steel, secured into the bottom bracket and crown of lower rear tubes, making it capable of bearing the severest strain.

Cut of a section of Cushion Frame Chainless, showing essential points of construction.

Cut of a section of Cushion Frame Chain Wheel, showing essential points of construction.

[Two outline drawings of sections of the Pierce cushion frame, the seat tube and rear triangle of the chainless frame on the left and of the chain wheel frame on the right, each with its caption. Reference letters key the drawings to the notes: V the chainless bottom bracket, X the cushion at the seat-post bracket, Y the hinge joint at the rear fork ends and Z the flat spring at the crank bracket of the chain frame.]

— Page 25 —
Pierce Cushion Frame Bicycles.

The construction of the cushion is simple (cut, page 23) and there is no possibility of its getting out of order.

The action is wholly unlike the spring saddle posts, as the relative distance between the saddle and pedals remains the same under all conditions, thus ensuring no loss in application of power, even when climbing hills. There is no change in the wheel base, nor in distance between sprockets, while the lines of the frame resemble in appearance the rigid type of bicycle. The success of the cushion frame bicycle has been remarkable, as it is a recognized fact that vibration fatigues, not pedaling, and as there is absolutely no rebound in this device it permits one to ride with great speed over rough surfaces, which would be impossible if the wheel were of rigid construction. A fair trial will convince the most skeptical that it is the greatest improvement in cycle construction since the introduction of the pneumatic tire. From our constant increasing sales and letters, both from our agents and individual riders, in all sections of the country, praising the comfort and easy running qualities of this machine, we know that those who desire to obtain perfect enjoyment in cycle riding will appreciate the cushion frame device.

While we claim the cushion to be the most comfortable bicycle in the world, care should be taken to obtain the spring best suited to the weight of the rider, for only in this way can the proper action of the cushion be obtained. We regularly equip these models with springs suitable for the average rider, but should an exchange become necessary, the factory will cheerfully send one of any required tension, a key of which we give on page 22.

Agents will find in these models, bicycles that have made most enthusiastic friends of riders, and they will also find in them models requiring no repairs, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

[A page of text in two columns inside a ruled border describing the Pierce cushion frame bicycle: the construction and action of the cushion, its claimed comfort and the choice of spring by rider weight. The first words, “The construction of the cushion,” are set in bold type; there are no illustrations.]

— Page 26 —
Hub Coaster Brakes.

We are prepared to supply on any Pierce model for 1901, including chainless, hub coaster and brake. On the chain models the New Departure or Morrow pattern; on the chainless, the New Departure only. These two patterns, we believe, are equal to the best upon the market. By this device a rider is enabled to rest in perfect security without removing feet from the pedals on any down grade, and absolutely at will. At the same time the application of the brake can be made instantly and of any desired pressure, thus securing absolute control over the wheel. The pleasure of cycling is greatly enhanced by this device.

You rest while the wheel works.

Price on any new bicycle, $5.00 extra.

New Departure.

Morrow.

[Engravings of two coaster brake rear hubs, the New Departure with its brake arm and sprocket on the left and the Morrow on the right, on either side of a text offering either brake on Pierce models for 1901 at $5.00 extra. The New Departure hub’s end plate carries the brake’s own lettering, partly legible, including “COASTER HUB BRAKE” and “PATENTED”.]

— Page 27 —
PIERCE POINTS

THE LITTLE THINGS, taken as an aggregate, make up the whole, and as they are individually and collectively good, indifferent, or bad, so will be the finished result. It’s the excellence of the “little things” that makes the pre-eminence of the Pierce. On these pages we present a few of these “points,” illustrated and briefly described.

Cranks and Axles. The rigid simplicity of the Pierce parts leaves no ground for criticism. The left crank and the axle are one piece. The right crank fits on a three-sided end, held in place by a conical nut. The cone adjustment is made on the left side by releasing the cone held in place by a screw through the left crank.

Hubs. These are made of solid steel, bored out, and are flangeless, handsome in appearance, and dust proof. The adjustment is made with a spanner wrench, and is very simple and rigid.

Forks. All models for 1901 will be regularly equipped with the double plate fork crown, making a safe, indestructible fork. The fork sides are the best, seamless, amply re-inforced. This construction is beyond all question strength at the vital point.

[Three halftone photographs of Pierce parts beside the text: the left crank and axle in one piece with the right crank and its small fittings set apart, a hub cut away to show its inside, and a double plate fork crown with the steerer tube cut open. Small reference letters N, O and P mark the crank fittings in the first photograph.]

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Spanner Wrench. We supply with each wheel a good wrench, which is made to fit every nut and binder on the wheel. It is fitted to a neat leather pocket or case, suitable to carry in the tool bag, or in the rider’s vest pocket.

Handle Bar Binder. The cut to the right is made from a mechanical drawing, and shows the device in section. By setting the bolt head at the top, the wedge at the bottom is drawn up, expanding the handle bar tube, slotted for that purpose, against the fork stem, and rigidly binding them together. The binder is quickly released by reversing the bolt.

Seat Post Binder. By means of the spanner the ring under the saddle draws into place, a split wedge, thus compressing the split and binding the tube to which it is attached to the seat post, and, by the same operation, expanding an outer tube against the tubing of the frame. Both these binders are effective, and strong as they are simple.

All parts of Pierce Cycles are fitted and adjusted before leaving the factory, and running parts thoroughly lubricated.

[A halftone photograph of the Pierce spanner wrench and two sectional drawings, the seat post binder on the left and the handle bar binder with its bolt and wedge on the right, beside notes on each part.]

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ADJUSTMENT
Of PIERCE CHAINLESS and CHAIN MODELS.

CHAINLESS.

CRANK AXLE GEAR AND BEARINGS are adjusted by loosening nuts No. 29 and No. 34. Turn cones No. 26 and No. 27 to the right to bring gears No. 33 and No. 35 closer together; if too close, reverse the operation. Nut No. 29 and cone No. 26 have left-hand thread, and nut No. 34 and cone No. 27 right-hand.

DRIVE SHAFT BEARINGS are adjusted by removing gear cover No. 1 and adjusting cone lock screw No. 5. Turn adjusting cone flange No. 6 to the right to tighten, and to the left to loosen.

REAR HUB BEARINGS are adjusted by loosening rear axle No. 41 and turning cone No. 37 to the right to tighten and to the left to loosen. (See page 16.)

CHAIN.

CRANK SHAFT. Loosen lock pin in left crank with small flat spanner, turn flange of adjusting cone to right to tighten and to left to loosen.

WHEEL BEARINGS. Loosen left axle nut, turn cone with flat spanner to right to tighten, left to loosen. Do not adjust too tightly, as wheel should swing perfectly free.

OILING.

CHAINLESS CRANK GEARS. Unscrew small plug on top end of drive shaft and insert lubricant. Remove dust cap to lubricate rear gears.

WHEEL BEARINGS. Lay machine on its side, insert oiler between cone flange and end of hub.

All Pierce bearings are sealed with felt, making them absolutely dust proof, as well as retaining the oil.

All Pierce machines are perfectly adjusted when shipped, and we advise our customers not to tamper with their wheels, as the adjustment should need no attention.

[Instructions for adjusting the bearings of the Pierce chainless and chain models, with oiling directions for the chainless crank gears and the wheel bearings, set in two columns inside a ruled border. The chainless directions refer to parts by number (No. 1 to No. 41) and to page 16; three gray stains lie in the right column over “of drive”, the “W” of the second “WHEEL BEARINGS” and the space in “dust proof”, none hiding a letter.]

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Extras.

Full nickeled forks on models 251 to 259, $1.00 extra.

Hand brakes, our internal plunger design, fitted to handle bars No. 218 and No. 122 only, extra $1.00.

Special sizes of frames, other than catalogued, extra $5.00.

Full nickel-plated frames, models 261 to 299 only, extra $10.00.

New Departure or Morrow coaster and brakes, we believe the best in use. We supply both types on any chain model; on chainless, New Departure only. Extra $5.00.

Thor roller bearings can be supplied on any of our chain models instead of our own ball bearings, at $5.00 extra. When coaster brake is wanted, we can fit the roller bearings in crank shaft and front hub only.

[The Pierce price list of extras inside a ruled border: nickeled forks and frames, internal plunger hand brakes, special frame sizes, New Departure or Morrow coaster brakes and Thor roller bearings, each priced from $1.00 to $10.00. Gray stains lie under the “s” of the heading, above “to” in the second paragraph and over “$5” in the third, none hiding a character.]

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Table of Gears.
28 INCH WHEEL.

TEETH IN FRONT SPROCKET | TEETH IN REAR SPROCKET
| 7 | 8 | 9
18 | 72 | 63 | 56
19 | 76 | 66.5 | 59.1
20 | 80 | 70 | 62.2
21 | 84 | 73.5 | 65.3
22 | 88 | 77 | 68.4
23 | 92 | 80.5 | 71.5
24 | 96 | 84 | 74.6
25 | 100 | 87.5 | 77.7
26 | 104 | 91 | 80.8
28 | 112 | 98 | 87.1

Note.— Hub Coaster and Brake requires the use of 8 or 9-tooth rear sprocket. 28-tooth for Tandems only.

Instructions to Agents.

When ordering, use regular specifications whenever possible. Any deviations cause delay in filling orders.

A supply of order blanks will be furnished to our agents, and we desire to have them used as a convenience to both agents and ourselves, and to prevent misunderstandings and errors.

Prices are all free on board at Buffalo, and our responsibility ceases with delivery to common carrier.

When using code it is presumed that regular equipment is desired and will be accepted as satisfactory.

You will confer a favor upon us by promptly advising the company at Buffalo if you need additional catalogues.

Part catalogues will be supplied later.

Parts or wheels returned should be marked with sender’s name and address, and full instructions forwarded promptly by mail.

If parts are returned under our guarantee, that fact should be stated promptly by mail. When this fact is not stated we will presume no claim under the guarantee is intended. Please be explicit.

[A Pierce table of gears for a 28 inch wheel, giving the gear for front sprockets of 18 to 28 teeth with rear sprockets of seven, eight and nine teeth, beside the firm’s instructions to agents on ordering, prices free on board at Buffalo, catalogs and returned parts. Both are set inside one ruled border; gray stains in the left margin of the instructions lie over “will be”, the “B” of “Buffalo” and “and”, none hiding a letter.]

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1901 Wheel Guarantee.

Made by The George N. Pierce Co.

WE AGREE with the purchaser of each Pierce Bicycle to make good, by repair or replacement, when delivered at our factory or at any branch, transportation prepaid, any imperfection or defect in material or manufacture of such bicycle, provided that the factory serial number shall be on such bicycle at the time the claim is made, and that all imperfect or defective parts shall be referred to us before any claim for repair or replacement shall be allowed.

This guarantee does not cover the cost of repairing said bicycle when damaged by accident, misuse, or neglect.

On any bicycle purchased during 1901, this guarantee continues until December 31, 1901.

1901 Tire Guarantee.

Made by all tire manufacturers.

(The George N. Pierce Co. does not assume this guarantee.)

WE AGREE with the purchaser of each tire to make good, by repair or replacement, at our option, when delivered to us, transportation prepaid, any imperfection or defect in material or manufacture of such tire, provided that all such imperfect or defective tires shall be referred to us before any claim for repair or replacement shall be allowed.

This guarantee does not include the free repair of punctures or other injuries.

This guarantee expires on December 31, 1901.

This agreement does not apply to tires into which any anti-leak preparation has been introduced.

[The 1901 wheel guarantee made by The George N. Pierce Co. and the 1901 tire guarantee made by all tire manufacturers, set side by side inside a ruled border, each opening with a large initial “W”. Both run to December 31, 1901; gray stains lie in the gutter between the columns and down the left edge of the tire guarantee over its initial and “prepaid”, none hiding a letter.]

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TELEGRAPH AND CABLE CODE.

If coaster brake is desired, add “S” to any of the above words.

Cable Address: “PIERCYCLE,” New York or Buffalo.

[The Pierce telegraph and cable code inside a ruled border: a code word for each model from 251 to 299, one for regular specifications sent by express and one for freight, set as two tables side by side with the cable address “PIERCYCLE” below. A run of gray stains lies down the left of the second table’s model numbers, from 271 to 299 and on below the rule, none hiding a figure; the last figure of “252” is printed without its foot stroke.]

— Page 34 (back cover) —
Pan-American·Exposition-Buffalo.
·THE·STADIVM·

NIAGARA LITH.CO BUFFALO N.Y

[A color lithograph of the Stadium of the Pan-American Exposition at Buffalo seen from above, its oval stands crowded and hung with flags around a green field, a building with a red roof and four towers at the far end and a tall tower at the left. The title is lettered on a stone panel at the foot of the picture, with “COPYRIGHT 1900” in small letters on the panel’s lower border and the lithographer’s line below the picture at the lower left; dark brown stains lie in the sky above the far building and on the field, and the top edge of the cover is worn.]

Ebykr presents this material for research and education. If you hold rights to it or notice an ownership issue, please contact us and we will respond promptly.

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A monthly letter on classic lightweight bicycles