Any info in Empire Bicycles?

[ckhay1]

From my other post I resurrected my old 70's Empire 10 speed road bike.
I've done some searching but can't find any information about the company.
From the badge on the front it appears to be a Canadian company (Maple Leafs).
Does anyone have any more information about the company?
   

[Papa Dom]

Japanese brand? but I might be wrong

[ckhay1]

(06-30-2020, 05:59 PM)Papa Dom Wrote:  Japanese brand? but I might be wrong

With Canadian emblems? Change the blue to red and it's the flag.
No idea which is why I am asking, but there's some logic as well.
I've never seen Maple Leaf icons in relations to Japanese products.

[Jesper]

(06-30-2020, 10:07 PM)ckhay1 Wrote:  

(06-30-2020, 05:59 PM)Papa Dom Wrote:  Japanese brand? but I might be wrong

With Canadian emblems? Change the blue to red and it's the flag.
No idea which is why I am asking, but there's some logic as well.
I've never seen Maple Leaf icons in relations to Japanese products.

Hi CK,
I believe your are correct about it being a Canadian "brand", but it doesn't mean it is of Canadian origin. It could very well be a Japanese made frame. There may be some markings on the front or rear dropouts, and the fork steerer tube or bottom bracket threads may give a hint as to the frame build origin. Also, the type/style of lugs might help. I have seen another example of the frame, identical headbadge, 10 speed bike; but no reference as to the maker or marque history. There loads of bikes that are branded as a different marque when distributed to countries other than the builder's; and in the '70s Japan, in particular, did this a lot. Albeit, with some fairly decent quality frames.