Monday Blues: Royce Union...

though Japanese made, markings attempt to connect the bike to a European tradition. pretty standard practice from what i have seen

Like any bicycle manufacturing company that has been around for any length of time measured in decades, or who move production operations from one country to another, there are models and years which are more collectable than others. This Japanese manufactured Royce Union falls into the dependable, but non-collectable category. According to the authoritative Sheldon Brown, during the 1970s Royce Union was the most widely distributed Japanese-made bike, but because they were only manufactured in one size (20") they were extremely limited in the American market. 

Heavy, and sporting lower grade components this bike is best used in-town for short errands, or getting place to place around campus. I am not sure of the date, but it has weathered the years well, and emerged into the sunlight in good shape. I saw it at the Velo.

cottered cranks

now, from what i read Royce Union bikes of the 1970s supposedly came with rear deraileurs, rather than internally geared hubs

fender detailing seems straight off 1950s automobiles