You ask some tough questions, grasshopper! I've consulted the book of Monark, and it has ads from Aug. 47 and Sept. 48. The 47 ad shows blackwall tires that appear to be Carlisle Lightning sidewall tires, that have tread on the sidewalls. It's an illustration though, so I can't say 100%. Especially since most circa 47 ads don't have the classic teardrop chainring drawn accurately! Anyway, the 48 ad specifically lists US Royal Chain Tread ww's. Unfortunately, no one's ever repopped these, so finding any is close to impossible. Interestingly, the illustrations look like Good year tires! Brake wise, they're not spec'd, but I've seen a few with New Departure. Most companies didn't spec them in ads since they might run out, or get a better deal from Morrow or someone else, anything's possible! Color wise, also not much info, though the book has an undated color chart/ad, which has a close up of the springer, and the post '50 'train' headlight. It lists Sea Green, Cruiser Red, Monark Maroon, Royal Blue, Chartreuse, Strato Blue, Monark Green, Peacock Blue, and Pastel Aqua. They don't really look like the real world colors and are aged. But hopefully this answers some of your questions! Also, Classic Bicycle News has a new Monark book in the works! My book is by "Newsletter By John", one of the 'original' old bike newsletters. You may be able to get a copy through the Cabe aka Classic + Antique Bicycle Exchange. They have a bookstore online, but you may need to email Scott and see if he has any. -Adam
