Published August 24th, 2006 by BBC
The famous hand-painted bikes of Pink Floyd founder Syd Barrett will go under auction in November.
The bikes will be on sale along with the rest of Barrett’s last
possessions in Cambridge, the city where the former singer spent much
of his last 30 years.
Barrett, who died in July, was often spotted out riding his bikes
following his decision to avoid the limelight after quitting Pink Floyd
in 1968.
Other items up for auction include art by Barrett never before seen.
There will also be a chance to buy the easel, paints and paint table
which Syd used regularly to paint, various books, homemade speakers and
a classical guitar.
“Syd spent his last years living a quiet, yet content life in Cambridge,” said a spokesman for auction house Cheffins.
“Both his bikes, which he had used every day in Cambridge for visits to
the local shops and pub, were hand-painted by Syd and will be included
in this sale – as will several pieces of furniture which Syd customised
or made himself.
“He was passionate about, although not always competent at, DIY.”
The sale will take place on 29 and 30 November.
I’ve got a bike. You can ride it if you like.
It’s got a basket, a bell that rings and
Things to make it look good.
I’d give it to you if I could, but I borrowed it.
You’re the kind of girl that fits in with my world.
I’ll give you anything, ev’rything if you want things.
I’ve got a cloak. It’s a bit of a joke.
There’s a tear up the front. It’s red and black.
I’ve had it for months.
If you think it could look good, then I guess it should.
You’re the kind of girl that fits in with my world.
I’ll give you anything, ev’rything if you want things.
I know a mouse, and he hasn’t got a house.
I don’t know why. I call him Gerald.
He’s getting rather old, but he’s a good mouse.
You’re the kind of girl that fits in with my world.
I’ll give you anything, ev’rything if you want things.
I’ve got a clan of gingerbread men.
Here a man, there a man, lots of gingerbread men.
Take a couple if you wish. They’re on the dish.
You’re the kind of girl that fits in with my world.
I’ll give you anything, ev’rything if you want things.
I know a room of musical tunes.
Some rhyme, some ching. Most of them are clockwork.
Let’s go into the other room and make them work.