Cycling Notes.

Southern Cross, Volume 1, Issue 27, 30 September 1893, Page 6

Cycling Notes.

GOSSIP PROM CHRISTCHURCH

(By Safety.) Upon my arrival at Christchurch I could not help having cycling brought prominently before me, as the cycles swarm everywhere like a lot of bees. Before reaching the “ Star works I counted no less than nine machines, and this in about seven minutes, and raining at that. Ha vino- a stroll the other evening I counted no less than 133 riders in space of 2J hours —17 of these being ladies. No wonder this is a cyclingparadise, as the roads are just perfection —smooth and level —and no necessity for riding on the footpaths. Through the kindness of Mr Jones, who gave me a letter of introduction to the firm he so ably represents, I was shown over their premises. Ujmn entering the shop the eye falls upon a grand show of Safeties, both ladies and gentlemen’s —the being real pictures of mechanical skill and workmanship. You next enter the workshops where repairs are executed and all new parts fitted in their rough state. Adjoining this is the brazing room. Upstairs are the enamelling and general finishing rooms for all new machines. The whole staff employed by Messrs Adams and Curties numbers about 50 workmen, and although not so large, perhaps, as the Home makers, their works compare well with some of the establishments of the large firms that I have been through in the Old Country. The workmanship put into their machines is quite as good in my opinion as in the goods supplied from the Home market, and those desirous of obtaining a good mount could not better a H Star.” This, mind, is not an advertisement, as I have nothing whatever to do with the firm, but am simply trying to comply with the request of many of my (and intended) brother clubmen made before I left the South. I have_ not yet seen the report of the opening meet, but expect it next week. I heard it numbered about 70. I <rm very pleased, and as several new machines have left since for the South, I hope you may reach a century before Christmas.

I have not had a ride yet, although. I have been offered machines to ride and give my opinion upon. I tell them “ all in good time,” at the same time giving them to understand that I have had a good view,—in fact overhauled all the different makers here, and I must certainly pin my faith to a “ Star.” I can hear someone say —“ but the records are not done on these machines.” Mr Adams informed me when X asked that question, that records stand for nothing, and he could no doubt soon obtain some if he cared to he bothered with them, hut that they are more trouble than they are worth, so he leaves them alone, and goes in for supplying a really first-class serviceable machine.

More anon, when I see the papers to show me what you have been doing'.