Rover Identification

[Spike]

One of my friends recently purchased a $10 Rover cruiser style bike for me from some Amish people. I've found information on Rover bikes from the late 1800's, but can't find anything on this style. I don't even know if it is the same company, or just some random relatively unknown brand by the same name. I can't find any other markings on it, other than a serial number. It has New Departure brakes, and the seat is covered with a textured cloth (appears original). The wheels are white with a black pinstripe. The bike was originally red under the black re-paint. I've never seen a rear frame/dropouts like the ones on this bike. I'm considering motorizing it, built in a vintage motorcycle style.
Thanks for any insight/info into this bike.

IMG_20161019_115323296

• Spike
• Oct 19, 2016

IMG_20161019_115312469

• Spike
• Oct 19, 2016

IMG_20161019_115228215_HDR

• Spike
• Oct 19, 2016

 

[kirkpatrick]

Thats a Colson bro, just a Rover headbadge. He got that for 10$? Dang thats a steal. I'd give you 100$ for it and you could make 10x your money back. I'd carefully remove the black paint and get it back to its original glory.

 

[kirkpatrick]

Serial number would be under the bottom bracket, just remove the paint and voila.

 

[Scribble]

Wow good find, Colson loop tails are sweet rides

 

[Spike]

Thanks for the info! Now that I know what it is, I'm finding alot more information and photos when I google. I found one photo of the Ladies version of the Colson Rover, but none of the Mens bike. I'll try and track down the year. I'm guessing late 40's or 50's.

 

[sludgeguy]

Please don't motorize it. It's a great bike and with so elbow grease the original paint will shine through! Great find!

 

[deorman]

Wow. I'd find a different bike for motoring, that thing is too sweet and (semi-) complete.

 

[Spike]

Fear not. I don't think I'm going to motorize it. This is exactly the reason I posted on this site to get some info on the bike. I didn't want to motorize something that was a desirable bike. Now I've got 2 bikes that I won't motorize! My other is a 1952 Spiegel Airman, that my Dad received as a Christmas gift back in 52. It's a really nice original bike, and I plan to always keep it that way. Thanks to all for the info and advice on the Colson Rover! I really appreciate the feedback.

 

[Jarod24]

earilest I believe it could be would be 49, so right around there. Probably early 50s