The Bowden Spacelander bicycle was first shown in 1946. It was well-received with its space-age design looking special in those bleak post-war years.  Beneath the pressed-steel frame was concealed an electric motor which charged when the bike was being ridden downhill or on the level. It then could then lend assistance when the road started going up. The bicycle also had built-in lights, a horn, and a radio. Amazingly, these characteristics are a part of today’s electric bike movement witnessed on the Spacelander 75 years earlier.

Unfortunately for Bowden, the Spacelander didn’t sell well and only 522 were ever made. It was considered to be too exotic and expensive for mass-market appeal. However today, the Spacelander’s design and retro-futuristic looks make it a collectors’ item and on rare occasions when they come up for sale, selling upwards of $5,000.

The Spacelander’s space-age design combined with the ‘30s and ‘40s art deco style movement, Lynn’s childhood memories of scary space movies are  inspirations to make this whimsical painting.