Flying Arrow

Despite laying claim to some of the most recognisable and well-crafted arrowhead lugwork to be found on any Australian built racing bike, the Flying Arrow range of bicycles produced in Bill Kell’s shop in Subiaco will be unfamiliar to many.

Kell’s Flying Arrow is not to be confused with the Flying Arrow built by The New Hudson Cycle Co of Birmingham, England and sold locally through the Armstrong Cycle Agency from 1898 to 1900.

Based on the earliest advertisements available, William Hayward “Bill” Kell managed the Subiaco branch of the Arrow Cycle Co at 189 Rokeby Road Subiaco from the 17th July 1937. It was advertised at this location until March 1943.

On the 19th June 1941, a notice was placed stating that the business at Subiaco was now the Flying Arrow Cycle Co.

Flying Arrow Cycles relocated to 134 Rokeby Road where it advertised from September 1944 to at least September 1954, though Bill Kell announced on the 31st July 1952 that he was severing his connection with Flying Arrow Cycles.