Montgomery Ward Hawthorne Bicycle Value Guide

The Montgomery Ward Hawthorne bicycle is a quintessential piece of Americana, representing the mid-century department store era when bikes were manufactured by industry giants like Snyder and Murray. This specific step-through model is highly collectible for its iconic 'muscle bike' styling, featuring a signature banana seat and high-rise handlebars that defined 1960s youth culture.

What Is Montgomery Ward Hawthorne Bicycle Worth?

The typical price range for Montgomery Ward Hawthorne Bicycle is $125 - $135 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the original blue paint and the amount of pitting or rust present on the chrome sissy bar and handlebars.
• The integrity of the vinyl banana seat, as original upholstery in good condition significantly bolsters the $125-$135 valuation.
• Completeness of the bicycle, specifically the presence of both original front and rear cargo baskets which are often lost over time.
• Mechanical functionality of the vintage steel components and the condition of the rubber tires.

How to Identify Montgomery Ward Hawthorne Bicycle?

• Look for the 'Hawthorne' brand name on the frame or chain guard, which was the exclusive house label for Montgomery Ward.
• Identify the distinctive step-through steel frame paired with a vintage blue finish and chrome accents.
• Check for original period-correct accessories including the vinyl banana seat, rear sissy bar, and dual front/rear wire cargo baskets.
• Verify the presence of high-rise handlebars and 1965-1975 era manufacturing marks on the dropouts or bottom bracket.

History of Montgomery Ward Hawthorne Bicycle

The Hawthorne brand was the house label for Montgomery Ward, manufactured by various American companies like Snyder and Murray. These bicycles were staples of the American mid-century lifestyle, sold through catalogs and department stores to families across the country. This specific model features a 'banana seat' and high-rise handlebars, reflecting the popular muscle bike styling cues that transitioned into cruiser designs during the 1960s and 70s.