Members of the Edinburgh University Cycling Club

Category

Library Item

Item no

13856

Title

Members of the Edinburgh University Cycling Club in George Street on the occasion of the Scottish Cycling Meet, Saturday 14th June 1884

Description

A large group of cyclists on penny-farthings cycle along George Street, Edinburgh. Crowds of pedestrians stop to watch the cyclists pass.

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1884

Size

16.5 x 21.5 cm

Type

Photograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

This image shows the Edinburgh University Cycling Club on the eve of a monumental change in bicycle design. The following year J.K. Starnley introduced the Rover Safety Bicycle, a design featuring similar sized rear and front wheels, a diamond shaped frame, and a chain drive linking the cranks and pedals to the rear wheel. This design, essentially the pattern for most modern bicycles, quickly took over from the 'Ordinary' or 'Penny Farthing' bicycles seen in this image. The improved safety and comfort of the new design led to a rapid increase in the popularity of recreational cycling and the proliferation of cycling clubs.

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Related images

Related subjects

Places > Edinburgh areas > New Town

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Sport and leisure > Activities > Cycling

Transport > Land > Bicycles

Transport > Land > Horse and carriages

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