Hobbies And Interests
History
The first bicycles were not driven by a chain. A person sat on the seat and propelled the bike by using his feet. As improvements were made, the Victorian bicycles became a significant mode of transportation. Lifestyles and society changed significantly due to the development of the bicycle. During World War I manufacturers began designing bikes that would appeal to children. Sears, Schwinn, Montgomery Ward and Mead were among the first to take an interest in marketing to children. These early bikes looked very much like aircraft and motorcycles. Parents and children were quickly captivated with the designs although these models were awkward to handle. In the 1960's, manufacturers started making bikes lighter and incorporated a simpler style.
Restoration
Antique bikes are most valuable when the original finish is intact. Consult an appraiser who can tell you the value of the bike before you attempt to make repairs, such as sanding, painting or changing the original condition of the bike. If you decide to paint the bike, take photographs in the original condition. Keep the original decals and markings when possible and do not change the color. Examine the bike and determine the parts that may need to be replaced. This is the time to decide whether the bike is worth the expense and time to restore it. All replacement parts should be from the same model and year of the antique bike.
Types
The walking machine was invented by Baron van Drais in 1817 to help him move about the royal gardens faster. This design was made of wood and was propelled using the rider's feet and then gliding. It was not very practical and was considered nothing more than a fad.
The velocipede was designed in 1865 with the pedal attached directly to the front wheel. It was made of wood; later, metal tires were used. The ride was very uncomfortable and acquired the nickname of the boneshaker.
The high-wheel bike was introduced in 1870. It was the first all-metal bicycle and the first to have solid rubber tires. The rubber tires gave a much smoother ride for the passenger. The size of the front tire was determined by the length of the rider's legs. This also caused many mishaps because the rider was so high above the center of gravity; any sudden stop propelled the rider over the handlebars and landed him on the ground.
Function
The invention of the bicycle was thought to be merely a fad and several years passed before design renovation changed the public's idea of ways to use the bicycle. For some people, modern bikes are an alternative to gas-powered vehicles. Bikes are used for exercise and many towns have bike trails set apart specifically for this purpose.
Considerations
Finding an antique bike can be a time-consuming and expensive ordeal. However, for a person with patience and a little bit of good luck, the search can be very rewarding. Restoring a bike may take more than one bike. You may need to take parts from several bikes to refurbish one bike to its original state.