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The Carlton Courette
The Courette was the name given to the Carlton ladies model. The name was introduced in 1955.
In the early days - 1937 - there were two ladies models in the touring range, the model L Ladies Light Roadster and the LS Ladies Sports Model (shown right). In addition, ladies versions of some of the sports range were also available.
After 1939 the touring range of Carltons was dropped and Carlton only offered ladies versions of the various styles of gents cycles.
The model below is a 1951 Flyer that belonged to Nancy O'Donovan, wife of Tony O'Donovan, part owner of Carlton. It has been restored using later components. The 1951 model below right shows the coachlining so typical of the period.
In 1955 the first Carlton Courette appeared in the catalogue, shown right. Courette versions of all the Carlton range were also available to order, matching the specifications of the equivalent gents model.
The Courette illustrated below is a 1956 Courette International, showing the elegant International lugwork.
The ladies models were available with dropped, flat or upturned bars.
In 1960 the Courette frame was changed to the 'Continental' style, later known as 'Mixte' style. This was described as using 'twin lateral stays in construction, ideal for business and for touring and hostelling'.
The frame was constructed from Reynolds 531 and the specification included GB bars and stem, GB or Weinmann brakes, Williams C.34 chainset, Sturmey Archer hub, freewheel or Benelux derailleur.
Colour was to choice. Courette versions of all gents models were still available. The Courette cost £26-14-8
© Copyright 2004-08 Jeremy P.Mortimore
