How the Wheel Changed History

How the Wheel Changed History — page 1
THE wheel I n 1870s England bicycles were big literally big The front wheel of a high-wheel bicycle could top four feet 1 2 m in diameter With its much smaller rear wheel the metal and wood contraption looked awkward and it was heavy and difficult to ride Rigid metal tires made for a bumpy ride and dismounting from the tall seat was a challenge and a hazard even for skilled riders As noted by American humorist Mark Twain Get a bicycle You will not regret it if you live 1 Despite the shortcomings of these ungainly contraptions they were popular with the rich young men who enjoyed competing with them in bicycle races 6 chapter 1