The Shelby Cycle Manufacturing Company became the Shelby Cycle Company in spring 1925. Backer Joe Seltzer, who infused the company with an additional $250,000, became president. The company was on its way to profitability.
The Shelby Cycle Frame Builders was formed in 1921 by A. D. Meiselbach of Chicago. Lured by quality seamless tubing from the Ohio Seamless Tube Co. and the promise of free factory space in the old Shelby Lamp Works building, a deal was struck and crews began producing frames and forks.
Shelby’s second foray in the bicycle industry began in 1895 with the Shelby Cycle Manufacturing Co. The sprawling plant, nestled between the Baltimore & Ohio railroad and the Blackfork River on Smiley Avenue, was home to the Ideal bicycle.
