For over 100 years, Royce Union has been leading the way in bike innovation and quality manufacturing. Our bicycles have become icons of American design and engineering, taking riders on adventures big and small. This is our story.
Wheels in Motion: The Early Days
It all started in 1913 when George H. Garland and Oscar E. Royce teamed up to start the Royce Union Bicycle Company in Canton, Massachusetts. Both men brought valuable experience to their new venture – Garland had previously run a successful bicycle sales company and Royce had worked as a mechanical engineer.
Initial production was small, with the partners hand-building each bike. But their focus on quality quickly earned them a reputation for manufacturing some of the finest bicycles available. As demand grew, Royce Union moved to larger facilities in Boston to ramp up production.
In the early years, Royce Union bicycles were technological marvels. They incorporated advanced features like nickel-plated steel rims, suspended saddles, and gas handles that allowed riders to control an audible alarm. The innovative bikes proved popular not just in the Northeast, but across America.
Hitting New Heights: The Golden Age
The early 20th century was a golden age for cycling and Royce Union was at the forefront. During the bike boom of the 1920s, Royce Union was the largest manufacturer in New England, producing thousands of bicycles each year.
Many of the company’s most iconic models like the Racer and Motobike debuted during this period. These stylish bikes epitomized the exciting new bicycle culture that was emerging. Riders used them to race, exercise, commute, and explore.
Royce Union also sponsored pro cycling teams and opened retail stores to sell their products. Innovations like balloon tires, internally geared hubs, and comfortable saddles helped make the bikes faster, smoother, and accessible to more Americans.
Even during the Great Depression, Royce Union’s strong reputation ensured steady sales. By delivering a quality product at a reasonable price, the company prospered when others struggled.
Pedaling Onwards: Evolution of an Icon
After WWII, changing tastes and demographics presented new challenges. Royce Union responded with new models targeted at casual riders and families.
While adult bike sales slumped in the late 1950s, Royce Union built their child and youth bike offerings. Distinctive bikes like the colorfully decorated Spaceliner with its space age design were big hits and inspired a whole generation of new riders.
In the 1960s and 70s, Royce Union leaned into the rising BMX culture, releasing popular models like the RX-5 and J20. These lightweight, trick-friendly bikes were perfect for ambitious teens pushing the limits of what could be done on two wheels.
When the mountain biking boom took off in the 80s, Royce Union was once again at the frontlines with durable and trail-ready bikes like the R.M.T. This willingness to adapt while retaining core values of quality, innovation, and riders-first design ensured that Royce Union stayed relevant.
Made for the Modern Era: Royce Union Today
Now into its second century of business, Royce Union remains an industry leader, producing some of the finest bicycles across every category.
The company’s mountain bikes represent the pinnacle of off-road performance. Models like the award-winning RTT-24 are packed with features to provide responsive handling and control on even the most demanding trails.
For riders seeking adventure on gravel tracks and in the backcountry, Royce Union’s gravel bikes like the RXG deliver speed, comfort, and versatility for exploring. Strong disc brakes and wide tire clearance let you roam wherever the ride takes you.
Urban commuters love Royce Union’s commuter and comfort bikes. With step-through frames, racks, fenders, and suspension, these bikes tame city roads while keeping you comfortable. Integrated lights and smart design features make Royce Union bikes the perfect partners for navigating dense urban environments.
And Royce Union is leading the e-bike revolution with models like the RCM, its premium electric commuter bike. With a powerful battery and electric assist, you can ride faster, farther, and with less effort. Electric shifting, hydraulic brakes and integrated lighting round out these technologically advanced bicycles.
While the bikes have changed with the times, what hasn’t changed is Royce Union’s commitment to excellence. All Royce Union bikes are extensively tested to meet stringent standards and are backed by solid warranties. Precision welding, quality paint, and expert assembly ensure each Royce Union bike meets the demands of the most passionate riders.
We also partner with cycling’s most exciting brands like Shimano, Tektro, and Kenda to incorporate top-of-the-line components on our bikes. And our sponsorship of pro cycling teams like Elevate-Webiplex Pro Cycling keeps us at the forefront of the sport.
Whether you’re a hardcore cyclist or just getting started on two wheels, Royce Union has the perfect bike for your riding adventures. We can’t wait to see where the journey takes you.
The Ride of a Lifetime Starts Here
With over a century of experience bringing quality bicycles to riders across America, Royce Union has firmly established itself as an icon of American cycling culture. But what really sets us apart is the people-first philosophy that has guided us from the very beginning.
George Royce believed that bikes weren’t just for those with means or experience. A bike should be accessible to anyone with the passion to ride. We still proudly embrace this community-oriented approach today.
Our employees, retailers, sponsored teams, and ambassadors aren’t just selling Royce Union bikes – they’re sharing their love of cycling and bringing more people into the sport. You’ll find Royce Union riders mentoring new cyclists, leading group rides, volunteering at races, and giving back to the community.
We also value hearing from our riders. Your thoughts, feedback, and experiences shape the direction of our brand and the bikes we build. Share your journey with us and let’s see where it takes Royce Union next.
In our second century of business, our mission remains the same – build the best bikes for riding and share them with everyone who dreams of adventure on two wheels.
Are you ready to start your Royce Union journey? We’ll provide the bike, you provide the passion! Find the model that speaks to your soul and let’s ride.
