Claud Butler was a pioneering British bicycle manufacturer renowned for his craftsmanship and innovation. He was born in 1903 and started in the cycling industry as a mechanic and salesman. In 1928 he then opened a bicycle shop in Battersea, London which expanded quickly and by the mid 1930’s he had a number of outlets across London and a warehouse in Nottingham.
Butler’s bicycles gained recognition for their innovation, quality and design. They featured techniques like bronze-weld construction and decorative lugs, which were advanced for the time. Butler was also known for his skill in marketing, and would help promote the Claud Butler brand through events and sponsorships of well known cyclists.
Like many other bike manufacturers, the post-World War II era brought challenges for Claud Butler. The rise of cars and consumer preferences led to a decline in demand for bicycles. Due to financial difficulties ensued, and by 1957, the Claud Butler company was sold in 1957 and this was the end of Butler’s involvment. The Claud Butler brand changed hands several times and today is a part of Falcon Cycles which produces budget friendly bicycles. Claud Butler passed away in 1978.
