Lot 232 , A scarce late version of the Ordinary bicycle (Penny Farthing), cream painted steel frame, sprung leather seat, fitted with the original innovatory Dunlop pneumatic tyres (patent reg. no.563865), circa 1890. Pneumatic ty

A scarce late version of the Ordinary bicycle (Penny Farthing), cream painted steel frame, sprung leather seat, fitted with the original innovatory Dunlop pneumatic tyres (patent reg. no.563865), circa 1890. Pneumatic tyres were first patented for the Penny Farthings in 1888, making it an interesting example of the very last stage of development for the Penny Farthing. Also innovatory was the use of alluminium as a material for the handlebar and the seat springing, Approximate dimensions; diameter of front wheel 126cm, diameter of rear wheel 54cm, James Starley of Coventry introduced the first ‘Penny Farthings’ in 1871. At the time they became known as ‘High Wheelers’. Later they were termed ‘Ordinary’ in order to distinguish them from the Safety Bicycles which started to appear from circa 1888.
They generally proved popular in England only in the 1870’s and 1880’s.
£1,500-2,000

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. In honest condition: defects include numerous small rust spots; smaller Dunlop tyre more worn than the larger.

Sold for £2,400