Antiques
Antique bicycles, even ones as recent as the 1950s and 1960s, are highly sought out and prized among collectors today. Certain brands and types of bicycles are snapped up and restored by bike aficionados who pay far more for the bicycles than they cost when they were new. Some older bicycles from early bike history can cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars, and while few collectors may get to own one, many go in search of them.
The predecessor to the bicycle was invented by a Baron in 1817 who wanted to be able to get around his royal gardens at a faster pace than walking. Sometimes referred to as the hobby horse, this machine had two wheels lined front to back, much like modern bicycles, though this differs from most antique bicycles because there were no pedals. The frame was wooden, which he straddled, then propelled himself forward by pushing his feet on the ground.
It was almost 50 years later before a new type of bicycle appeared, even though the word bicycle wouldn’t be used yet. The design was similar to the Baron’s walking machine, but pedals were attached directly to the front wheel. This machine was also made of wood (including the tires!) until metal tires were used later. This antique bicycle is known as a velocipede. It was also commonly called a bone-shaker. Picture wooden or metals wheels on cobblestone roads and it’s easy to see where it gets the name.
Then, in 1870, an all metal bicycle was created with solid rubber tires—the first design to be called a bicycle. It was also the smoothest ride of all the different designs because of the rubber tires. Antique bicycles of this type today are quite valuable, and easily recognized by the huge front wheel and the small rear wheel, which gives them the name high-wheel bicycle. The reasoning for the large wheel was simple engineering. A larger wheel would take a person farther with each rotation of the pedals, so people would get the largest tire they could, one that allowed for the entire length of their legs. Wealthy men often owned these, because they were very expensive.
High-wheel tricycles were designed to afford women more modesty. The two back wheels allowed the person to sit lower and behind the large front wheel, rather than on top of it, so women wearing skirts could keep others from seeing up them. These are also popular antique bicycles for collectors.
Chains, suspension and pneumatic tires were the next improvements, and the chains alone allowed the bicycles to go back to the two same-tire-size design. This allowed women to ride the lighter weight metal bicycles and still wear skirts, and men started riding bicycles to work, and they became a hugely popular item. If you want to restore antique bicycles to ride, you’ll need to do some research into the best types to purchase, but for display, almost any kind you like can be found online in places like eBay.
Originally posted 2008-12-23 14:00:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Finding Antiques and Collectibles If you are interested in the art of antiquing, then you should know that there are antiques and collectibles that you can find in all shapes, all sizes and all kinds of locations. All of these antiques and collectibles have history, a past, a story to them. People can find...... -
Enjoying Antique Shopping People who have been antique shopping for years know that if you are going to go out shopping in search of antiques, then you should absolutely stick to the antique shops that are still true to the business. What this means is that you should be sticking to the antique...... -
Curio Cabinet Dealers -> Furniture -> Cabinets-Armoires-Cupboards A curio cabinet is a piece of furniture that encompasses so many different varieties that it's hard to sum up in a short space. The thing each one has in common is that it allows for “curios” to be displayed. Knick-knacks, trinkets, collectibles and other...... -
The Benefits of Antiques Insurance If you have a collection of antiques, collectibles or fine art, then you may find yourself wondering about insurance coverage, and how antiques insurance can possibly be used to cover your needs and ensure that your cherished items are protected. In general, antiques insurance is tricky because placing a value...... -
Purchasing Antique Rings for an Engagement If you are looking for the perfect engagement ring, you just may want to consider antique rings and the sentimental value that can be associated with them. Antique rings are capable of being purchased through reputable dealers in second hand jewelry stores. You may even be able to find antique......
Related Websites -
Antique Vintage Plastic Collectibles There seems to be a market these days for every type of vintage collectibles under the sun, and Bakelite and antique plastic jewelry vintage collectibles are certainly no exception. These vintage jewelry collectibles include antique and vintage jewelry made from Bakelite as well as from vintage types of plastic include...... -
Get to Know Antique Paper Money Collecting One of the hottest new trends in the world of collecting is antique paper money collecting. This hobby has seen a recent increase in popularity because of some of the recent reality based shows set in pawn shops. Many of these shows have featured episodes in which individuals have brought...... -
More Cycling Glossary Terms A good part of understanding your triathlon training and performance is having a grasp on the lingo. Here is a guide to cycling terms that you should know in order to get the most out of your experience. Derailleur - When gears are shifted on a bike, the derailleur is...... -
Inline Skate Rockering If you have been into inline skating for any decent amount of time, then chances are you have heard the term rockering before. You might even know what rockering is, and this will just be remedial information for you. But if you do not, then this could be quite enlightening...... -
Antique Tools Collectibles -> Tools, Hardware and Locks -> Tools The market for antique tools is growing as many collectors seek a return to when times were simpler. The nostalgia value of old tools is great, but there are many antique tools that are actually quite valuable on their own. Whether you......
- Design Pc Publications & Software Gardening & Plants Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living
- Large Metal Javelina Garden Stakes Garden Dcor Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living Nursery
- Proform Machine Repair Ellipticals Cardiovascular Equipment Gym, Workout & Yoga Exercise & Fitness
- Antique Wooden Wheelbarrows, Carts & Wagons Garden Tools & Equipment Gardening & Plants Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living Nursery
- Handlebars & Grips Mountain Bike Parts Bicycle Parts Cycling
