Vintage Sutton Bicycles History and Facts

Sutton bicycle is a lesser-known brand that was sold mostly in New York.  The brand was owned by TSS Seedman’s which was a department store chain in NY.  Wilcox International was the import company for Seeman’s.  I believe all the bikes were made in Japan by Kawamura and/or Zebrakenko.  Because they are department store bikes, I believe most models are entry level and all I have found are road bikes.  The brand has a great looking head badge.

Sutton Head Badge

The bikes I have seen all appear to be from the 70s though the brand may have made it into the 80s.  Seeman’s also owned the Royce Union and Savoy brands.

Here is a nice bike which is owned by my friend’s sister.  I have not been able to determine the model, but it is quite nice for a 70’s entry level road bike, here are some pictures:

Sutton Road Bike

I believe it is a 1978 model with Shimano and SR components.  I like the orange color and the lined lugs.  Derailleurs are Shimano 500, and the crank is SR Silstar.  Tubing is high tension double butted. 

Models

Racer – entry level road bike

Super 10 – entry level road bike

Supreme – mid-level road bike

Value

I don’t believe any of these bikes would have a great value as I don’t think the brand has a following.  So, I would guess they are worth about $100 in really good condition.  Nice, affordable vintage bikes, Japanese made bikes from this period have a good reputation for quality.  

Links

Vintage Bicycle Manufacturers and Brands

Vintage Bicycle Component Companies

Published by FAB Jim The Cyclist

Jim has over 40 years of experience with bicycles and loves road and mountain biking and just going for calm cruises. He is a mechanic who has built custom bikes and is also very interested in bike history.

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