Evolution of the Bicycle

The high-wheeled or penny-farthing bicycle was a common sight on the streets of the 19th century. One of the most distinctive features of these early bicycles was the large front wheel. But why were these front wheels so much bigger than the rear wheels? This video takes a closer look at the history of the penny-farthing and why it was designed with such a large front wheel.

One of the main reasons for the large front wheel was to increase the distance covered with each pedal stroke, allowing for greater speed. The larger the wheel, the farther it would travel with each rotation of the pedals. This was particularly useful in an era when roads were often unpaved and uneven, and riders needed to be able to navigate obstacles and rough terrain.

Another reason for the large front wheel was to create a more efficient transfer of power from the rider's legs to the wheels. With a larger wheel, the power generated by the rider's legs could be more effectively translated into forward motion.

While the penny-farthing may have been replaced by more modern designs, its legacy lives on in the modern bicycle. By understanding the history of the bicycle, we can better appreciate the incredible engineering that goes into the bikes we ride today.