This book traces how the upper-class passion of the 1800s for the Hobby-Horse gave way to amateur mechanics' Velocipede and Boneshaker, the Penny Farthing, and ultimately the modern 'Safety' bicycle in its many forms.
High-riding clubmen, the cycling explorers of distant lands, the society ladies awheel during the great cycling boom, the thrills of cycle sport: find them all in this well-illustrated social history describing the roller coaster of cycling's popularity.
Sometimes a sad, neglected toy, other times the darling of the age. The bicycle did more for morals and manners than almost any other invention. This book looks beyond the technical developments. It tells the story of people and progress under many different circumstances around the world.
Paperback, 208 pages, 16 in colour.
"His history of cycling is, for my money, the best in a crowded field." Matt Seaton, The Guardian
Author: Jim McGurn
Published Date: 1999
