Western Flyer X 53 production

[MaxGlide]

Can anyone tell me when Western Flyer started production on the X-53 Super? I just bought one from California (being shipped) and the owner thinks it's from 1951. I thought the first run was later years.

It has a one inch pitch chain and most I've seen have 1/2' pitch. Other than that it seems like others I've seen pics of.

He is getting the serial number for me.

thanks for your help.

Wayne

 

[Fltwd57]

Murray produced the X-53 Super for Western Auto from 1953 to 1958... The skip-tooth chain and sprocket were used on the '53 - '55 bicycles, and the '56 - '58s had the 1/2 inch pitch chain. The fenders were painted for the first year or two, '55 and up had chrome fenders. The early ones wore a black and red paint scheme (Boys version) or two-tone blue for the Girls. Only a Boys model was offered after 1955, these and the '56 models wore a red, or red and gold paint job. The final run '57 -'58 were black and gold. Hope that helps!!

Martyn

 

[Freqman1]

Congrats on your purchase these ae one of my favorites and I am looking for a C8 or better 100% complete and correct '57-8 (black and gold). v/r Shawn

 

[slick]

MaxGlide, Did you buy the red and gold one that was on ebay? It was very clean an ended at a very fair price if you ask me. Post some pictures of it! I love those and wish I had the cash for that one.

 

[MaxGlide]

X-53 pics

Hi Slick,

It was not from Ebay but a private sale. Fltwd....that helps a lot. I am very excited as well, I love the look of these bikes and have really wanted one. Here are a few pics. I'll post more when I pick it up.

Does anyone have info on serial numbers. The one I was given was 124851

Thanks for your help.

Wayne

 

[Freqman1]

Jerry Peters did have some repo headlights for these. I think they were about $125. You may want to check him out. v/r Shawn

 

[MaxGlide]

I'll try Jerry....

Hi All,

Anybody have a contact number for Mr. Peters?

Thanks... Wayne

 

[chriscokid]

i love the way the rack lines up with the tank and chain guard.. sweet ride

 

[ratdaddy]

i need one of those lights too

 

[MaxGlide]

Never mind all, found Mr Peters and had a great chat with him. He has no tops (the bottom is a Delta Rocket Ray) for the X-53 light right now but will likely do another run in a few weeks. I will post on here when he has some available. They are $120.

He may also be doing a run on the housing for the tail light. The reflector was a Stimsonite #15 according to him.

Cheers.... Wayne

PS: I wonder if we got together all those who needed one and placed an order for a bunch, if we could wangle a better deal? You know, sure sales and all.