The Wood Brothers, of 596 Broadway, New York, decided at the
commencement of the _furore_ in this country, to make the manufacture
of velocipedes an important branch of their business. They made
thorough and personal investigation of the many styles used abroad, and
selected the patents of Messrs. Michaux & Co., as being the one most
in favor with experts there.
The Wood Brothers’ velocipede, though very similar to the French
machine, is made of better material, with steel tires and axles, and
with gun-metal gearings upon the rear wheel. This machine combines
in a great degree lightness and durability. It weighs from fifty to
fifty-eight pounds, and if required, can easily be led, lifted, or even
carried by the rider. The seat is fixed more directly over the stirrups
than in some machines, and at such a height above the wheels as to
avoid wear and tear of the clothing from contact with mud and dirt,
and the driving wheel in turning. The stirrups are attached in such a
manner to the crank, that they can be adjusted near the hub or axle,
giving speed on level roads; or they can be placed at the end of the
crank, giving power and ease for rough roads and ascending grades. Two
kinds of stirrups are used; the “spool pattern,” entirely round, and
covered with leather, making it easy for the beginner to keep his foot
in place; and the French swing stirrup, which is for proficient riders
and general use. This latter style has a very long bearing, relieving
the strain on the ankle joint, and making it easy to ride a distance
without fatigue.
This bicycle has a brake, rests for the feet in front, and a handsomely
finished saddle, supported by steel springs. It will ascend a grade of
one foot in twenty. The price is $135.
The Wood Brothers have in their possession the first velocipede ever
brought into this country. When first exhibited on the sidewalk in
front of their warerooms, it attracted such attention that the police
requested them to remove it. They have just completed for a New York
gentleman, at a price of $300, one of the most completely finished
velocipedes yet manufactured in America.