Bicycle Corporation Of America Bethlehem Pa
The Beginning of the Bicycle Corporation of America
The Bicycle Corporation of America, also known as BCA, was founded in 1914 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The company was established by Arnold, Schwinn & Co. and was originally called the Arnold Cycle Company.
Arnold, Schwinn & Co. was already a well-known manufacturer of bicycles and bicycle parts, having been founded in Chicago in 1895. With the establishment of the Arnold Cycle Company, the company hoped to expand its operations and increase its market share in the rapidly growing bicycle industry.
Early Success and Expansion
The Arnold Cycle Company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality bicycles at affordable prices. By 1917, the company had expanded its operations and changed its name to the Bicycle Corporation of America.
The Bicycle Corporation of America continued to grow and expand throughout the 1920s and 1930s, becoming one of the largest bicycle manufacturers in the United States. The company produced a wide variety of bicycles, from children's bikes to racing bikes, and its products were sold in stores across the country.
Innovations and Contributions to the Industry
Throughout its history, the Bicycle Corporation of America was known for its innovative designs and contributions to the bicycle industry. In the 1930s, the company introduced the first balloon tire for bicycles, which greatly improved the comfort and performance of bicycles on rough terrain.
During World War II, the Bicycle Corporation of America played a vital role in the war effort by producing bicycles for the military. The company also introduced a number of new designs and technologies during this time, including the cantilever frame and the automatic shifting mechanism.
The Decline and Revival of the Bicycle Corporation of America
Like many other American bicycle manufacturers, the Bicycle Corporation of America struggled in the postwar years as the popularity of automobiles grew. The company was eventually sold to a group of investors in the 1950s and went through a number of ownership changes over the next few decades.
In the 1990s, the Bicycle Corporation of America was purchased by Kent International, a company based in New Jersey. Under Kent International's ownership, the Bicycle Corporation of America has experienced a revival, with a renewed focus on quality and innovation.
The Future of the Bicycle Corporation of America
Today, the Bicycle Corporation of America continues to produce high-quality bicycles at its factory in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The company's products are sold in stores across the country and are known for their durability, performance, and affordability.
With a renewed focus on innovation and quality, the Bicycle Corporation of America is poised to play an important role in the future of the bicycle industry. Whether you're a casual rider or a serious cyclist, a BCA bike is a great choice for anyone who values performance, reliability, and style.