Three speed IGH bicycles enjoyed popularity in post war USA, though not to the extent of the 10 speed, derailleur equipped models of the early 1970s. While they were virtually unknown in the USA prior to the war, American military personnel became familiar with them while stationed in Great Britain during the war and found them a more practical bicycle than the traditional American roadster. Their popularity was assisted by the post war easing of duties on British bicycles. This was marketed as an attempt to help Britain rebuild her bicycle industry, which was true, but the reason behind it was to increase British cash flow so she could repay war debts to the USA. However, what limited their popularity was a post war movement out of cities, to suburbs, which almost mandated an automobile. It would take the baby boom to inject much needed stimulus into the bicycle industry, first with the hi-rise bicycle and a few years later with the 10 speed.
Last edited by T-Mar; 07-22-17 at 07:46 PM.