Prewar Hiawatha or Shelby?

[dave429]

Have an opportunity to purchase this bike. Only have 1 picture. From other frames I’ve seen I’m wondering if it’s a prewar Shelby or Hiawatha bike. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[volksboy57]

That is a cool bike! I have a couple wishbone frame bikes, but the top and middle tube are fairly parallel. I am not sure if I have seen one like yours.

 

[saladshooter]

Here is my '40 Shelby with the same frame

 

[Archie Sturmer]

Looks like a Shelby-built bicycle. I cannot tell from the photo if it wore or wears a Gambles Hiawatha head badge.
Not sure if the yoke-frame was exclusive to pre-war, or not. The wider spacing between the top tube(s) and truss tube at the seat tube mast might indicate a pre-war frame. A serial number might help determine the date range.

 

[dave429]

@saladshooter Thanks for the picture of your bike. Certainly looks like the same frame shape.

 

[dave429]

@volksboy57 Thanks for the verification. I was only finding parallel top bars at first when I searched. I knew the wishbone frame had to be the same manufacturer though. I appreciate the input!

 

[dave429]

@Archie Sturmer , the bike is a couple hours away from me. I will see if I can get pictures of the head-badge and serial #s sent to me. Do you think it’s most likely prewar though? Thanks

 

[stezell]

Dave I'm going to say it's prewar with it having the wishbone frame.
Sean

 

[dave429]

Dave I'm going to say it's prewar with it having the wishbone frame.
Sean

Thanks Sean!

 

[stezell]

Thanks Sean!

I know @fat tire trader (Chris) had a tank for sale a while back if I'm not mistaken.