I can't believe I haven't found this one sooner :)
lehommeauvelo
The Style of Bikes has not changed much, though in those Days the Bikes were Bigger. They seemed a Bigger Size than the Actual Person that was doing the stunt Cycling, and the Clothes they were using is Heavy Woolen Type with Tails Flailing out the Sides. Which means that they had to Work Harder at those Stunts. Whereas Today They use Small Little BMX Bikes with Small Wheels also with Helmets on t heir Heads. I think they were more Skillful Those Times back in 1899,with Heavier Bikes also with no Protection added.
You're right, John and for all the same considerations I think it proofs the bicycle (diamond-shaped frame) as an invention is absolutely brilliant and timeless and in essence can't be improved on.
Protection, Blahstection, we HAVE wandered of the path of critical thinking, true, so silly :)
I love sharing this film with people. From a cinematic standpoint it's interesting because the cameras in those days were too large and heave to move, hence the static shots. From a cultural standpoint, the film demonstrates just how much a part of the mainstream the bicycle was before the introduction of the automobile into peoples' lives--even in the United States.
The fixed geared bicycle is good for tricks, but it's also a very utilitarian machine that requires minimal maintenance which is good for Minneapolis winters that include lots of salt and sand being applied to roadways. Of course, internal hub gears and enclosed drive trains are another low maintenance option for the non minimalist types.
[Site moderator: Matty, I have to repost your comment. It did show up in my admin but not here.]
I love sharing this film with people. From a cinematic standpoint it's interesting because the cameras in those days were too large and heave to move, hence the static shots. From a cultural standpoint, the film demonstrates just how much a part of the mainstream the bicycle was before the introduction of the automobile into peoples' lives–even in the United States.
The fixed geared bicycle is good for tricks, but it's also a very utilitarian machine that requires minimal maintenance which is good for Minneapolis winters that include lots of salt and sand being applied to roadways. Of course, internal hub gears and enclosed drive trains are another low maintenance option for the non minimalist types.
Valid question: of course Edison shot this, but somebody else made a compilation by recording the projection, a very cute sound ;)
alraeburn
Be careful what you say about fixie riders.....:-)) Why is the riding position uncomfortable? Mr Freight could even be a fixie, but you'd have to pedal all the time! Not really a lot of fun in busy traffic though.
Quoting medical opinion can be iffy, sometimes it's says helmets are a good idea... NOT my opinion, and said tongue firmly in cheek!
Frames were big on all bikes back then, just look at the size of the racing bikes, they look almost impossible to ride, especially when you realise how short a lot of riders were.
After years of small framed MTBs, larger framed bikes are making a bit of a comeback in the UK, on fixies and more prosaic working bikes.
Nice and warm here in Madrid, and I saw a bike within an hour of arriving:-8
