Have you ever come across those peculiar bikes boasting a dramatically oversized front wheel? They look almost cartoonish, far exceeding what seems mechanically sensible. These aren’t just oddities; they’re penny-farthing bikes, and they hold a significant place in cycling history as arguably the first true “bicycles.”
Looking at them today, everything seems counterintuitive. The pedals are directly connected to the front wheel’s axle, a wheel so large it appears daunting to mount and even more challenging to pedal. Modern bikes, with their uniformly sized wheels, streamlined designs, and optimized pedal positions, feel like precision instruments in comparison.
Surely, there must be a logical reason behind the penny-farthing’s unconventional design. Humans are inherently practical; such an unusual form wouldn’t arise from mere whimsy, would it?
You’re right to question! Let’s delve into the compelling reasons behind the ludicrously large front wheels of these vintage bikes.
The Chain Drive Dilemma
One of the primary reasons these bikes with large front wheels emerged is the absence of a chain drive. The concept of a chain drive surprisingly dates back centuries, potentially conceived by Leonardo da Vinci in the 15th century. However, its application to bicycles didn’t materialize until 1885, marking the advent of the first chain-driven bike.
Penny-farthings, in contrast, burst onto the scene in 1871, predating chain-drive bicycles. As many cyclists know, the chain drive provides a significant mechanical advantage, enabling riders to achieve higher speeds with less exertion.
Without the chain drive to amplify pedaling power, engineers needed to find an alternative method to enable riders to reach faster speeds. Their solution? Increase the diameter, and consequently the circumference, of the wheel directly propelled by the cranks.
The genius of the large front wheel lies in its ability to achieve higher top speeds without a chain drive. While it demands more effort to initiate movement (and equally to stop, as the larger wheel acts as a powerful flywheel storing considerable rotational momentum), it undeniably allows for greater velocity.
The trade-offs are evident: mounting becomes a precarious act, and control is significantly compromised. But the allure of speed, without a chain, was a powerful motivator in early bicycle design.
Alt: A detailed view of a penny-farthing’s front wheel and direct drive mechanism, emphasizing the large size and crank connection.
Suspension? Think Again!
The quest for speed in the absence of a chain drive is the main driver behind the penny farthing’s large front wheel, but there’s another crucial factor – the rudimentary state of early bicycle technology.
Consider the “boneshaker,” an even earlier bicycle prototype. It too lacked a chain drive, and in many iterations, suspension. Proportioned similarly to modern bikes in wheel size, the boneshaker relied on riders pushing off the ground for propulsion. Some variations incorporated pedals directly attached to the front hub axle, much like the penny-farthing.
The moniker “boneshaker” wasn’t just evocative; it was brutally accurate. These early machines delivered an incredibly harsh ride. Every bump and imperfection in the road surface was transmitted directly through the wheels, frame, and into the rider’s body, with no cushioning whatsoever. Steering and pedaling simultaneously proved cumbersome, compounding the discomfort.
Here’s where the large front wheel of the penny-farthing offered an unexpected advantage: rudimentary suspension. Like the boneshaker, it lacked a dedicated suspension system. However, that significantly larger front wheel could roll over bumps, dips, and uneven surfaces more smoothly than its smaller-wheeled predecessors. The increased diameter allowed for a greater angle of attack, effectively bridging smaller obstacles rather than crashing directly into them.
Braking with Caution!
Ultimately, the bike with a large front wheel provided a pathway to higher speeds and improved navigation over rough terrain – but not without significant drawbacks.
The elevated front wheel necessitated a higher riding position, raising the machine’s center of gravity. Penny-farthings became notorious for their challenging handling. Attempting to brake too abruptly often resulted in a dramatic “header,” sending the rider tumbling headfirst over the handlebars.
Alt: A comical illustration of a penny-farthing rider falling headfirst over the handlebars, highlighting the danger of sudden stops on these high-wheel bicycles.
Despite the inherent risks, the penny farthing represented a notable advancement over earlier cycles, embodying the spirit of innovation in early transportation.
Curious to Try a High Wheeler?
While functionally obsolete in modern cycling, these odd bikes retain a dedicated following. Enthusiasts worldwide continue to ride and even race penny-farthings, celebrating their unique charm and historical significance.
If you’re intrigued by the penny-farthing, whether for a historical appreciation or the thrill of a unique ride, you’ve come to the right place. Explore our collection of odd bikes to find one that piques your interest. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team at 678-494-4962 – we’re here to assist you!
