Wigan Album

Rudge Ulsters are the make of the motor bikes

Hi Pauline, the Rudge Ulster is the model of motorcycle, made from the late 20s to late 30s. "Ulster" deriving from racing in Ireland I think.
here's a link for info http://wikipedia.orange.co.uk/wiki/Rudge_Ulster

Rudge is the make of the bike and Ulster is the model name.They were a class bike in their time.They would be worth a fortune today.

The two men look like brothers and the three women look like sisters.

The number plate is unusual 2 letters and 4 numbers, RB 5476 as opposed to British ones, 3 numbers and letters?

Nothing unusual about the reg number Dave, two letters and four numbers was not uncommon in those days. Great photo and great bikes. As someone has already said the bikes were named after the famous race held in Ulster just like the Manx Norton was named with the Isle of Man TT in mind where it had much success.

Hi Pauline,I think the RB registration would indicate a Nottingham registration.
As others have said these were quality motorcyles and had a good racing pedigree.
Good luck with your researches.

rudge where a midlands company so maybe notts reg no is right ,lasted till dec 1939 when there expertise and machinery where probably commandeered for war use

RB is Derbyshire - Rudge were in Coventry. RB could also stand for 'Rudge Bikes' - so maybe this was a company promotional model at some time. Rudge went over to radar production in the war.

There is an article in January's "Old Bike Mart"magazine about the Rudge Ulster.It states that the bike was named after Graham Walker's {father of Murray Walker] victory in the 1928 Ulster Grand Prix.The bike was developed and ended up in the late 1930's with a four valve head,decent brakes and an excellent gearbox.The ulster was one of the top sporting bikes of its era