Lot 230 , A Pierre Michaux-type ‘Boneshaker’ velocipede, an example of the first true bicycle with pedals, manufactured circa 1865, wrought iron frame, painted wood wheels fitted with wrought iron tyres, canvas cover seat mounted

A Pierre Michaux-type ‘Boneshaker’ velocipede, an example of the first true bicycle with pedals, manufactured circa 1865, wrought iron frame, painted wood wheels fitted with wrought iron tyres, canvas cover seat mounted on a leaf spring, lever brake on rear wheel, the pedals directly attached to the hub of the front wheel, approximate dimensions; overall length 170cm, height of seat 103cm, height to the top of the handlebars 126cm, diameter of front wheel 92cm, diameter of rear wheel 76cm The French inventor brothers Pierre and Ernest Michaux added pedals to the hub of the front wheel in 1861 enabling faster travel. However the iron frame with wood and iron wheels was generally considered uncomfortable.
Most of these bicycles were melted down for the metal during the First World War.
£2,000-3,000

Condition:
Vendor inherited this and the other cycles in the sale from his father some decades ago; his father being a pioneer collector of early aircraft, motor cars and bicycles during the 1930’s. One turned wood handlebar grip missing, the other with evidence of old woodworm; generally in honest condition; no mark or label on frame.

Sold for £1,300