Bicycle. Illustrated History

"Since its appearance in the early 19th century, bicycles have not lost popularity. Their number in the world has reached an impressive figure - over a billion copies. Given the vast variety of types, models, and functionalities of bicycles that exist today, the history of this mode of transport has been complex and captivating. Leading specialists in the history of technology and engineering, Tony Headland and Hans Erhard Lessing, have researched the key stages of the bicycle's evolution from its first prototypes to super-modern machines. Based on an impressive volume of materials, including specialized patent documentation, accompanied by more than 300 unique illustrations, the book shows the development of technical characteristics of bicycles and their individual components, including seats, transmission, brakes, lighting devices, and devices for transporting cargo and passengers (carriers, bike backpacks, saddle bags, trailers, and child seats). .«We will look at the early stages of bicycle development at a time when it was still far from its most advanced and stable form - a safe device with a frame of classical geometry. We will trace the further development and improvement of bicycles with various specifications for use, including racing, folding, and off-road models. We will also explore the evolution of functional components of bicycles necessary for improving speed performance, comfortable riding, and convenience in transporting luggage». (Tony Headland, Hans Erhard Lessing)".