The illustration on the opposite page shows how this is accomplished.
On the side of the structure where the Bicycle trains are shown, we
have an ordinary standard gauge, four feet eight and one-half inches.
This gives us four feet and eleven inches from center to center of each
rail, and as shown, with cars four feet wide, we have eleven inches
between trains. This is ample.
On places were the curvature is considerable, cars could be made still
narrower to accommodate four in each compartment instead of six, and
to allow more space to clear one another in rounding curves where the
overhang is considerable.
On such a road as shown here, two rails could be used for through
express trains solely, with no possible interference, and every
opportunity would be given for a very high rate of speed.
The value of such a line to business men would be incalculable, giving
them a rapid, comfortable and safe transit, and at one-third the cost
to railroad companies of the present so-called express trains.
Any business man, to whom time is valuable, would pay almost any
price to reach the various places in order to facilitate his numerous
business transactions.
The other two lines could be used for local passenger traffic and the
carrying of freight.
[Illustration]
[Illustration: _Bicycle Palace Car._]