The History of Martyns Cycles

Beginnings (1913–1917)

The story of J. Martyn & Co began in 1913, when Mr Joe Martyn operated a small shop on Eden Street. In 1917, he moved to larger premises at 45 Thames Street to manage H. Brown & Co, a bicycle dealership. Not long after, he took ownership of the business, establishing J. Martyn & Co — the foundation of what would become Martyns Cycles.

The Workshop

In the early years, bicycles were both manufactured and repaired on-site. Components such as frame lugs, tubing, rims, tyres, pedals, handlebars, and saddles were imported from England. Frames and forks were carefully assembled and brazed in an open forge, enamelled, baked in a stone oven, and hand-lined with the trade names “Leader Special” and “Osbourn.”

Well-known English brands such as BSA and Rudge-Whitworth were also imported in unassembled form. Most adult bicycles of the time featured 28-inch wheels.

The workshop itself was modest but highly functional, equipped with hand-operated machinery including a drill press, rim punch, cast steel vices (still in use today), a brazing forge with foot bellows, and a wheel-truing stand.

Heating was by open fire, and during the harshest winters, old rubber tyres were burned in the workshop grate for instant warmth — a practical, if smoky, solution.

Workshop Anecdotes

Like any long-standing business, Martyns has its fair share of stories.

One regular visitor, known as “Cheeky Charlie,” had a habit of ignoring the workshop sign reading “No admittance except on business.” He would often handle bicycle parts awaiting repair — much to the frustration of mechanic Reg Knight. On one memorable occasion, Charlie picked up a freshly brazed (and still extremely hot) brake lever, learning the hard way to keep his hands to himself.

Innovation was also part of the workshop culture. Around 1930, a puncture-proofing chemical was trialled by injecting it into a tyre. Initial results seemed promising — the tyre self-sealed when punctured — but by the next day, the tube had completely disintegrated. The experiment was quickly abandoned.

Lighting and Power

Martyns was ahead of its time in adopting new technology. Around 1910, a water-driven Pelton wheel generator was installed at the rear of the workshop, providing electric lighting — one of the first such systems in Oamaru.

Cyclists of the era relied on wick-burning oil lamps, later replaced by brighter acetylene lamps. The shop stocked oil, wicks, carbide, and replacement parts, supporting the evolving needs of riders.

Notable Bicycles and Products

By the 1920s, Martyns was supplying a wide range of bicycles and accessories. A particularly memorable example was a reinforced high-frame bicycle built for Constable Waring, complete with a specially adapted Brooks motorcycle seat.

Roadster bicycles featured steel Westwood rims and enclosed oil-bath chainguards, while racing cycles often used lightweight wooden rims. Popular tyre brands included Dominion, Dunlop Railroad, and John Bull Red Spot.

Typical prices in the 1920s:

• Bicycles: £6/10/0 to £8/15/0
• Tyres: 5 shillings to 17/6
• Frame repair: 30/-
• Tyre repair: 1/-
• Hub overhaul: 2/6

Diversification

During the mid-1920s, Joe Martyn expanded the business beyond bicycles. Driven by his passion for trout fishing, Martyns became Oamaru’s first fishing tackle supplier.

The business also introduced key cutting and locksmithing services — another first for the town — alongside prams, pushchairs, and sporting goods such as footballs and netballs.

Succession and Growth

The business continued to grow through challenging times, including the economic downturn of the early 1930s. Joe Martyn’s sons, Ron and Ken, joined the firm, and after Joe’s passing in 1939, they formed a partnership that successfully ran the business for decades.

The War Years

World War II brought significant challenges. Petrol rationing led to increased bicycle use, but new bikes were scarce. As a result, much of the work shifted to repairs and maintenance. Despite these constraints, Martyns endured and was well-positioned for the post-war boom.

Post-War Expansion

Following the war, the business expanded its offerings significantly. In addition to Phillips, BSA, and Hercules bicycles, Martyns became the sole agent for the renowned Humber brand.

The shop diversified further, stocking toys such as Meccano and model kits, along with a growing range of fishing gear. Firearms and ammunition were also part of the product mix during this period.

A major shop and office redevelopment in 1970 created more space and allowed the toy department to expand even further.

Modern Era

In 2002, the business relocated to 51 Thames Street, continuing its long-standing presence in Oamaru’s main retail area.

Leadership has remained within the family, with Brent Martyn — son of David — now at the helm, carrying the legacy into a new generation.

Today

Martyns Cycles continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.

The business has played a key role in introducing the local community to electric bikes, with the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail helping spark a renewed passion for cycling across the region.

After more than a century as a brick-and-mortar store, Martyns Cycles expanded online, bringing its products and expertise to a wider audience.

Today, the store proudly stocks leading bicycle brands including Scott, Trek, Sinch, and Avanti — combining heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation.