From Wheels to Bikes

When the first diamond frame bicycles became popular in the 1890s they were often called "wheels" - the national cycling association was called the "League of American Wheelmen." We have moved from "wheels" to "bikes," but the bicycles have remained remarkably the same over more than 100 years - elegant in their efficiency and simplicity. And many of the issues that we think are new? They were around then too.

Friday, December 31, 2010

Would You Like a Revolver? Or a Bike? (1896 ad)

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At least it gives some context for the prices of bicycles at the time . . . From the September 17, 1896 issue of Cycling Life . This ad is a...
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Wednesday, December 29, 2010

"Bicycling for Ladies" (Book - 1896)

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Bicycling for Ladies available online from HathiTrust.org. Another version (with the cover) from Harvard. Bicycling for ladies : with hin...
Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Yet Another Alternative Drive System for Bikes (1896)

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While the drive system was a bust, he did have a good idea with his spring-suspension. From Cycling Life, September 10, 1896 . Another inve...
Sunday, December 26, 2010

"The Dancing Chain" (Book for Christmas)

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The Dancing Chain (third edition) is the "history and development of the derailleur bicycle" and a wonderful book. Just got it f...
Friday, December 24, 2010

Bicycles Out of Favor in Beijing

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Article in the People's Daily describes efforts in Beijing to get people back on bicycles, rather soon after they just got off. Inclu...
Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Bicycle Patents (for Entertainment/Historical Value)

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In addition to searching the texts (old books) at the Internet Archive or old books at the Hathitrust (that are in the public domain) one ...
Monday, December 20, 2010

This Bike Commuter's Favorite Day - 12/20

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From here on the days get longer, until late June at any rate. Bike trail along Four Mile Run approaching the south end of National (Reagan)...
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