file which includes the original illustrations4 ,see #fbbbg-;h4htm or #fbbbg-;h4zip3 7https3_/_/www4gutenberg4org_/cache_/epu b_/#fbbbg_/pg#fbbbg-;images4html7 or 7https3_/_/www4gutenberg4org_/files_/#fb bbg_/fbbbg-;h4zip7 ,images of the original pages are available through ,internet ,archive4 ,see https3_/_/archive4org_/details_/commonse nseofbic#jjward ,transcriber's note3 ,text enclosed by underscores is in italics 7italics74 ,small capitals have been replaced with ,,all ,,capitals4 ,a deetailed transcriber's notes is at the end of the text4 ,,bicycling ,,for ,,ladies ,illustration3 ,,wheeling ,,from ,,the ,,peg--,,showing ,,inclination ,,of ,,wheel4 ,the ,common ,sense of ,bicycling ,,bicycling ,,for ,,ladies ,with ,hints as to the ,art of ,wheeling--,advice to ,beginners--,dress--,care of the ,bicycle--,mechanics--,training--,exerci se1 etc41 etc4 by ,,maria ,e4 ,,ward ,illustrated ,new ,york3 ,brentano',s ,chicago ,washington ,paris ,copyright1 #ahif1 by ,brentano's ,,bicycling ,,for ,,ladies ,,preface ,i have found that in bicycling1 as in other sports essayed by them1 women and girls bring upon themselves censure from many sources4 ,i have also found that this censure1 though almost invariably deserved1 is called forth not so much by what they do as the way they do it4 ,it is quite natural to suppose1 in attempting an unaccustomed exercise1 that you have to do only what you see done and as others about you are doing4 ,but to attain success in bicycling1 as in other things1 it is necessary to study the means as well as to look to the end to be attained1 and to understand what must not be attempted as well as to know each step that will be an advance on the road to progress4 ,a great deal has been said against attempting to study a little of anything2 but when a slight knowledge of several important branches of science that bear directly upon a subject under consideration1 and that a subject concerning the health and safety of many individuals1 will render one intelligently self-dependent1 and able at least to exercise without endangering one's own health or the lives of others1 the acquisition of such knowledge should not be neglected4 ,there are laws of mechanics and of physiology that directly concern the cyclist2 it has been the author's aim to point out these laws1 showing1 for instance1 the possible dangers of exercise1 and how they may be avoided by the application to bicycle exercise of simple and well-known physiological laws1 thus enabling the cyclist to resist fatigue and avoid over-exertion4 ,the needs of the bicyclist are an intelligent comprehension of the bicycle as a machine1 an appreciative knowledge of the human machine that propels it1 and a realization of the fact that rider and bicycle should form one combined mechanism4 ,for this1 a knowledge of the laws that determine the limits and possibilities of both mechanisms is necessary4 ,the cyclist is limited1 not only by laws physiological and laws mechanical1 which determine when and for how long he may travel1 but he is restricted by the laws and ordinances of county1 town and village as to how and where he may travel4 ,a knowledge of these laws is also necessary4 ,while not attempting to treat any of these subjects exhaustively1 the author has endeavored to place them comprehensively before her readers1 hoping to prepare the enthusiast to enjoy all the delights of the sport1 to encourage the timid1 and to assist the inexperienced to define and determine existing limitations4 ,the subject of the care of the bicycle has been carefully treated1 some of the means at hand suggested1 and the necessary tools1 and their uses explained4 ,other topics considered are how the bicycle is propelled1 and why it maintains its balance2 what the cyclist should learn1 how correct form may be attained and faults avoided1 and what should be the essential features of the clothing worn4 ,the author wishes to acknowledge indebtedness to ,dr4 ,legrange1 and to ,messrs4 ,d4 ,appleton ,co4 for their permission to quote from 8,physiology of ,bodily ,exercise40 ,,table ,,of ,,contents ,,page4 ,,chapter ,i4 ,,possibilities #a ,,chapter ,,ii4 ,,what ,,the ,,bicycle ,,does #h ,,chapter ,,iii4 ,,on ,,wheels ,,in ,,general ,,and ,,bicycles ,,in ,,particular #ad ,,chapter ,,iv4 ,,for ,,beginners #bb ,,chapter ,v4 ,,how ,,to ,,make ,,progress #bi ,,chapter ,,vi4 ,,helping ,,and ,,teaching2 ,,what ,,to ,,learn #cg ,,chapter ,,vii4 ,a ,,few ,,things ,,to ,,remember #dg ,,chapter ,,viii4 ,,the ,,art ,,of ,,wheeling ,,on ,a ,,bicycle #ef ,,chapter ,,ix4 ,,position ,,and ,,power #ga ,,chapter ,x4 ,,difficulties ,,to ,,overcome #hb ,,chapter ,,xi4 ,,dress #ic ,,chapter ,,xii4 ,,watch ,,and ,,cyclometer #ajj ,,chapter ,,xiii4 ,,women ,,and ,,tools #aab ,,chapter ,,xiv4 ,,tools ,,and ,,how ,,to ,,use ,,them #aah ,,chapter ,,xv4 ,,solving ,a ,,problem #abe ,,chapter ,,xvi4 ,,where ,,to ,,keep ,a ,,bicycle #ach ,,chapter ,,xvii4 ,,tires #ade ,,chapter ,,xviii4 ,,mechanics ,,of ,,bicycling #aef ,,chapter ,,xix4 ,,adjustment #afd ,,chapter ,,xx4 ,,exercise #agj ,,chapter ,,xxi4 ,,training #age ,,chapter ,,xxii4 ,,breathlessness2 ,,the ,,limit ,,mechanical #ahi ,,list ,,of ,,illustrations #a4 ,,wheeling ,,from ,,the ,,peg--,,showing ,,inclination ,,of ,,wheel ,frontispiece #b4 ,,correct ,,position--,,leaning ,,with ,,the ,,wheel ,opposite ,page #bb #c4 ,,incorrect ,,position--,,leaning ,,against ,,the ,,inclination #bd #d4 ,,proper ,,way ,,to ,,stand ,a ,,bicycle #cj #e4 ,,carrying ,,the ,,bicycle #cb #f4 ,,picking ,,up ,a ,,bicycle #cd #g4 ,,leading ,a ,,bicycle ,,about #ch #h4 ,,preparing ,,to ,,dismount #dj #i4 ,,dismounting #db #aj4 ,,correct ,,pedaling #ef #aa4 ,,following ,,pedal #eh #ab4 ,,lifting #fj #ac4 ,,back ,,pedaling #fb #ad4 ,,back ,,pedaling--,,showing ,,distribution ,,of ,,weight #fd #ae4 ,,hill-,,climbing--,,pushing ,,crank ,,over #ff #af4 ,,coasting #gb #ag4 ,,wheeling ,,one ,,foot ,,over #gd #ah4 ,,wheeling ,,from ,,the ,,peg--,,showing ,,distribution ,,of ,,weight #gf #ai4 ,,preparing ,,to ,,mount--,,showing ,,inclination #hb #bj4 ,,incorrect ,,mounting ,,position #hd #ba4 ,,mounting--,,preparatory ,,position #hf #bb4 ,,correct ,,mounting ,,position #hh #bc4 ,,mounting--,,second ,,position #ij #bd4 ,,dismounting ,,over ,,the ,,wheel #ib #be4 ,,mounting ,,over ,,the ,,wheel ,,from ,,peg #id #bf4 ,,starting ,a ,,nut #aab #bg4 ,,adjusting ,a ,,wrench #aaf #bh4 ,,applying ,,power #aah #bi4 ,,screwing ,,up #abj #cj4 ,,unscrewing #abb #ca4 ,,preparing ,,to ,,turn ,,bicycle ,,over #abf #cb4 ,,turning ,,the ,,bicycle ,,over #abh #cc4 ,,the ,,bicycle ,,turned ,,over #acj #cd4 ,,straightening ,,the ,,handle-,,bars #acf ,,bicycling ,,for ,,ladies4 ,,chapter ,i4 ,possibilities4 ,bicycling is a modern sport1 offering infinite variety and opportunity4 ,as an exercise1 at present unparalleled1 it accomplishes much with comparatively little expenditure of effort2 as a relaxation1 it has many desirable features2 and its limitless possibilities1 its future of usefulness1 and the effect of its application to modern economic and social conditions1 present a wide field for speculation4 ,bicycling possesses many advantages1 and is within the reach of nearly all4 ,for the athlete and the sportsman1 it opens up new worlds2 for the family it solves problems2 for the tired and hurried worker1 it has many possibilities4 ,the benefits to be derived from the exercise cannot be over-estimated and the dangers that result from over-doing are correspondingly great2 for it is easy to over-exert when exhilarated with exercise and unconscious of fatigue4 ,it is but recently that the bicycle has become a perfected mechanism1 adaptable to general usage1 simple and scientific4 ,the railroad makes possible direct and rapid communication between widely separated localities4 ,the usefulness of the bicycle begins where that of the railroad ceases1 for it connects and opens districts of country that the railroad has not reached2 indeed1 it is to the bicycle in connection with the railroads with which the country is gridironed that we must look to make possible the enjoyment of much that is beautiful and valuable1 but otherwise inaccessible4 ,to the naturalist1 the traveller1 and the intelligent observer1 cycling offers advantages which are limited only by time and opportunity4 ,bicycling has been adapted to serve many purposes2 but it is bicycling as an athletic exercise and sport1 with the bicycle propelled by human power only1 that we shall now consider4 ,the history of the bicycle is modern4 ,the study of its evolution shows the development of a great industry1 constantly introducing and applying improvements2 most important of these was the pneumatic tire1 which made bicycling universally possible4 ,getting under way for even a short cruise awheel has some of the features familiar to the yachtsman4 ,to the skater1 the motion is not unlike the rapid1 swaying movement on the ice1 the silence and the rush of succeeding strokes4 ,to the horseman1 the dissimilarity of the two modes of locomotion1 after the settling to work has been accomplished1 is very striking4 ,for the uninitiated and for some others1 bicycling does not possess attractions4 ,the bicycle is a familiar object1 not compelling a second thought4 ,one reason for this is that it is not really brought to the intelligent notice of the casual passer4 ,the cyclist1 to the stationary observer or the comparatively stationary pedestrian1 is such a fleeting instantaneosity that1 unless thrown among enthusiasts over the sport1 few of the unenlightened would be tempted to try it2 for they are as unappreciative of what the wheel means to the cyclist as is the countryman1 who lives near a railway1 of the intricacies of commerce which are indicated by the flying mail4 ,to the lover of out-door life the bicycle presents a succession of wonderful possibilities4 ,much has been written of canoe-trips and of the charms of cruising among our inland waters2 as charming and as attractive is land travel on the wheel4 ,bicycling1 moreover1 combines the best features of many other sports with advantages peculiar to it1 for instance1 the cyclist must work1 and there is much pleasure in watching progress made with so little effort--the work all his own1 the machine but a means of locomotion--enjoying and appreciating all the beauties of the country traversed1 while yet conscious of the power to hasten away as soon as the surroundings cease to interest or amuse4 ,by the scientist and the naturalist1 no encouragement is needed2 the bicycle at once compels their attention4 ,the lover of horses may fear that this new mode of locomotion may interfere with his sport--the same objection that was advanced against the introduction of the steam engine4 ,but the bicycle does not displace2 it is rather a link in the chain connecting driving and railroading4 ,bicycling1 furthermore1 means good roads1 not as a luxury1 but as a necessity1 for it is impossible without them4 ,rough country may be crossed1 but the bicycle must be pushed or carried across it1 and this is not practicable for any considerable distance4 ,the bicycle1 though a simple machine1 is a complicated mechanism simplified4 ,the principle that keeps it from falling is a well-known one--that of the gyroscope1 the only known mechanism that overcomes gravity4 ,the bicycle has its limits1 determined by the powers of its rider and the surface ridden over4 ,the motion is unquestionably fascinating after the control of the machine is acquired2 and there is an accompanying exhilaration that is peculiar to the sport1 and always something to conquer1 something to accomplish1 besides the direct benefit to be derived from the exercise4 ,there is a great variety of methods of bicycling1 whether for exercise1 transportation or travel4 ,in travelling1 the country all about soon becomes1 as it were1 your own domain4 ,instead of a few squares1 you know several towns2 instead of an acquaintance with the country for a few miles about1 you can claim familiarity with two or three counties2 an all-day expedition is reduced to a matter of a couple of hours2 and unless a break-down occurs1 you are at all times independent4 ,this absolute freedom of the cyclist can be known only to the initiated1 and as proficiency is acquired1 it becomes a most attractive feature of the sport4 ,there is bicycling weather1 as there is skating weather1 yachting weather1 or weather favorable for any out-door sport or exercise4 ,but it is easy to wait for bicycling weather1 and nothing has to make way for it4 ,the machine is always ready1 and that is all that is needed if a suitable country is accessible4 ,on the road the bicyclist is rendered independent of assistance1 for everything needful is prepared for him1 and parts and repair supplies can be carried and need but little room4 ,only inattention or carelessness should cause delay4 ,still1 proper preparation is essential to enjoy bicycling at its best1 and the bicyclist should be ready to meet any emergency4 ,that there is necessarily the element of sociability about cycling is evident4 ,there are so many stops1 and the dusty wheelmen grouped among their wheels at the roadside have always the bond of a common interest2 from this1 transition to individual fads and fancies is easy2 there is constant opportunity for acquiring special knowledge and for using it2 and almost every accomplishment is appreciated in addition to capability as a bicyclist1 and may be utilized in a variety of ways2 cheerfulness is an invariable factor2 and there is always novelty and the possibility of excitement1 for it is unusual1 on a bicycle trip1 that everything happens as it is expected or has been planned for4 ,too much cannot be said of the benefits to be derived from out-door exercise2 and one of the best features of bicycling is that it brings so many to enjoy out-door life who would otherwise have little of either fresh air or exercise4 ,proper oxidation is necessary to perfect health4 ,the great danger that these would-be bicyclists must face is unfamiliarity with exercise1 either general or special4 ,persons accustomed to athletic exercise know how to prepare for and how to resist fatigue1 know what practice means and how proficiency may be attained4 ,the bicyclist unaccustomed to athletics has all this to learn1 and more2 to him1 ultimate success means more time given to study and less time to practice4 ,the novice1 however1 has the advantage that he has nothing to unlearn1 and can profit by the experience of others4 ,to accomplish the best results1 the human machine must not be overworked2 and to stop work at the right moment is one of the hardest things to learn1 and the most important to success4 ,to learn the construction of a bicycle1 the particular duties of all the parts and their adjustment1 is a matter of memory and observation4 ,to understand the adjustment of the human machine to mechanical environment requires cultivated perception and special knowledge4 ,but the human machine is so independently adaptable1 so hard to put out of order1 that it may be cared for by intelligent attention to only a few simple laws4 ,do not wait for danger signals3 know how to avoid them4 ,bicycling opens a delightful future to all who attempt it intelligently4 ,the inspiration of the enthusiast is invaluable2 but it is the practical theorist who is successful4 ,a bright1 sunny morning1 fresh and cool2 good roads and a dry atmosphere2 a beautiful country before you1 all your own to see and to enjoy2 a properly adjusted wheel awaiting you1--what more delightful than to mount and speed away1 the whirr of the wheels1 the soft grit of the tire1 an occasional chain-clank the only sounds added to the chorus of the morning1 as1 the pace attained1 the road stretches away before you6 ,,chapter ,,ii4 ,what the ,bicycle ,does4 ,the bicycle has been evolved--a mechanism1 propelled solely by human power1 capable of quadrupling the distance traversable by the pedestrian4 ,the simple1 light1 and almost universally accepted machine is constructed to stand a strain tremendous in proportion to its weight2 for the modern machine weighs only twenty pounds1 and it may be lighter1 though for some purposes it should be heavier4 ,the bicyclist is virtually mounted on a set of casters1 which propels the weight with much greater ease than can be attained in the act of walking4 ,in walking1 advantage is taken of the force of gravity by continually falling forward1 and simultaneously placing the feet1 with a regular motion1 one beyond the other1 to alternately receive the weight of the body4 ,on the bicycle1 the weight is carried and supported1 and the wheels reduce friction to a minimum4 ,the wheel being set in motion1 power is applied to overcome inertia1 and speed is increased by multiplying the number of the wheel's revolutions2 the application of the gyroscope principle assists materially1 and the resistance of gravity is overcome in a degree while the wheels are rapidly revolving4 ,to set a bicycle in motion requires the expenditure of considerable power4 ,a given rate of speed on the level may be maintained by a minimum expenditure of power4 ,bodies or masses set in motion maintain their velocity undiminished unless other forces intervene4 ,the bicycle in motion is resisted on the level by air pressure and friction1 on the roadway by friction1 and by the incidental obstacles of the road4 ,on an ascending plane1 it must overcome the additional resistance of its own and its rider's weight1 which must be lifted constantly2 on a descending plane1 it must oppose a constantly lessening resistance4 ,all this resistance and lack of resistance means a proportionate stress laid upon the bicycle1 the wheels of which are all the while kept rapidly revolving1 the large wheels moving much faster than the cranks and pedals4 ,each separate part of a bicycle must be made capable of withstanding a certain wear and strain1 and must perform its own particular duties and work in conjunction with all other parts of the machine4 ,to this end1 it has been studied1 perfected1 tested2 its weight and tensile strength calculated to a nicety2 its finish and adjustment made matters of deep thought and careful investigation4 ,only the best can be made to do in bicycle manufacture2 each piece of metal must be separately tested1 and the maximum of strength with the minimum of weight must be attained4 ,what is known as the safety factor enters largely into the construction of the modern bicycle2 that is1 the machine is made much stronger than is necessary for the strain it is expected to withstand2 this added strength involving of course the added weight of the material which supplies it4 ,the calculated strength of a machine is the strength which fits it adequately to perform its work4 ,when1 as in the bicycle1 the accurate testing by skilled workmen proves the existence of this degree of strength1 the safety factor meanwhile being reduced to the lowest possible limit1 the product is the perfected result of the highest degree of skill4 ,each part is tested for so many pounds strain or tension or compression1 and each strain is accurately figured for each particular part2 each part1 moreover1 must be able to stand so much additional strain1 more than it is ever likely to have thrown upon it1 though no bicycle is built to withstand the shock of collision under speed4 ,in case of collision1 the older1 heavy bicycle was not smashed into fragments1 as is the modern twenty-pounder4 ,something would give way1 perhaps2 it might break in several places4 ,the light modern wheel holds together or is crushed to pieces1 though its rider is less likely to suffer serious injury1 the lighter construction having less power to do damage than the cumbrous wheel of fifty or sixty pounds weight4 ,the cost of a well-made bicycle1 of perfect workmanship and finish1 represents the amount of skilled labor required to construct it rather than the value of the raw material1 although1 when it is remembered that each part must be tough1 hard1 strong and elastic1 it will be apparent that only the best of material can be used4 ,wheels can be made at a very low cost2 but such wheels cannot be correctly adjusted and tested without the additional cost of skilled labor4 ,for the production of a perfect bicycle1 the machine of tested strength1 simplicity of detail1 and beauty of finish1 the most accurate workmanship as well as the best material is necessary4 ,a machine or a tool should always be the best of its kind1 and it pays to take care of it4 ,a bicycle requires as nice and accurate adjustment as a watch1 and like a watch1 with regular attention afterwards1 will run steadily and smoothly4 ,a bicycle1 moreover1 as much or more than a watch1 is individual property1 and each individual wants the best4 ,our physical powers have been tested in certain directions2 in walking1 for instance1 we know what we can do1 how far we can go1 how much it is wise to attempt4 ,the bicycle appeals to us as a means of swift locomotion attained without other force than our own powers four or five times multiplied by mechanical processes4 ,the bicycle enables one to do1 to prove one's powers2 it puts one in conceit with one's self4 ,when one is not a pedestrian1 does not care for equestrian pleasures--and1 indeed1 in the majority of cases1 there is little to compel attention to these means of recreation--the bicycle offers the opportunity to find the limit of one's powers in a new field4 ,it supplies1 too1 a new pleasure--the pleasure of going where one wills1 because one wills4 ,the attention has only to be directed1 and the wheel1 responsive to touch or thought1 moves in unison with the rider's will1 flitting hither and thither1 that he may enjoy the freshness of nature and the ever-changing beauty of clouds and sky1 of sunshine and shadow1 of meadow and sea1 lake and river1 mountain and forest4 ,riding the wheel1 our own powers are revealed to us1 a new sense is seemingly created4 ,the unobserving are gradually awakened1 and the keen observer is thrilled with quick and rare delight4 ,the system is invigorated1 the spirit is refreshed1 the mind1 freed from care1 swept of dusty cobwebs1 is filled with new and beautiful impressions4 ,you have conquered a new world1 and exultingly you take possession of it4 ,travelling by vehicle or by any public conveyance1 the sense of individual responsibility is reduced to the minimum2 it is indeed no appreciable factor4 ,you pay so much to be taken up and set down1 so much for a reasonable amount of safety1 comfort1 and convenience4 ,mounted on a wheel1 you feel at once the keenest sense of responsibility4 ,you are there to do as you will within reasonable limits2 you are continually being called upon to judge and to determine points that before have not needed your consideration1 and consequently you become alert1 active1 quick-sighted1 and keenly alive as well to the rights of others as to what is due yourself4 ,you are responsible to yourself for yourself2 you are responsible to the public for yourself2 and you are responsible to the public for the rights of others4 ,the upholding of laws and ordinances1 the general welfare1 public health and safety--problems never before1 perhaps1 called to your attention--come up one by one for consideration4 ,in short1 individual duty1 recognition of the rights of others1 consideration of means for the proper enforcing of laws1 all are suggested to the awakening mind of the bicyclist4 ,the bicycle is an educational factor1 subtle and far-reaching1 creating the desire for progress1 the preference for what is better1 the striving for the best1 broadening the intelligence and intensifying love of home and country4 ,for all that is beautiful is ours--ours to protect and to cherish4 ,to the many who earnestly wish to be actively at work in the world1 the opportunity has come2 they need but to come face to face with it to solve this problem of something to conquer1 something to achieve4 ,,chapter ,,iii4 ,on ,wheels in ,general and ,bicycles in ,particular4 ,the form of the wheel is very ancient1 its construction modern1 even recent4 ,its evolution has been gradual4 ,first came the round stick or roller1 placed beneath a weight2 then a roller with its central portion shaped and thinned to lessen friction2 then two disk-shaped sections of a log1 connected by a bar upon which they revolved1 replaced the clumsy stick4 ,each wheel or disk then began to receive separate attention4 ,there was the wear on the edge or rim to be considered1 and it was found that if its surface were protected1 the disk would last indefinitely longer4 ,then it was noticed that the hole in the centre of the disk wore unevenly1 and it was reinforced1 and the hub began to take form4 ,when the rim was strong and the central portion of the wheel remained intact1 the disk was found to be heavier and stronger than it need to be to support the outer portion of the wheel4 ,some of the useless heavy part was removed1 and the disk pierced with holes to make it lighter2 then these holes were shaped between the remaining portions1 which took the form of pillars or spokes4 ,a pillar would break1 and be replaced by a rounded stick2 and thus1 perhaps1 the rude idea took form of constructing a wheel out of several pieces1 for the sake of securing economy1 durability1 and lightness4 ,a wheel1 then1 was well constructed1 with a large1 heavy piece in the centre to stand friction and bear weight1 and with the rim made of several pieces1 each piece supported on a spoke1 and all held together by a band called a tire4 ,in the course of time the hub became heavier1 the spokes thinner1 the rim stronger and lighter1 and the tire narrower4 ,the bar connecting two wheels was made very strong1 with smooth ends for the wheels to revolve easily upon4 ,pins were driven into holes in the projecting ends of the axle1 or bar1 and later the pins replaced by knobs1 or nuts4 ,then the wheels were brought closer together1 and found to run more easily2 and the tire1 cutting too deep into soft surfaces1 was widened4 ,attention1 moreover1 was paid to the roadway1 very bad places being filled and smoothed4 ,a wheel is defined as 8a circular frame turning on an axle02 an axle as 8a shaft or rod1 either solid or hollow1 on which a wheel is placed40 ,the first bicycle wheels were constructed like carriage wheels1 the limit of that method of construction arrived at4 ,the rim was supported on the spokes1 which rested on the hub4 ,the minimum definite quantity of material was ascertained1 but the wheel was still too heavy and bulky4 ,if the weight of material was lessened1 however1 it would fall to pieces4 ,the bicycle wheel of to-day is a compound mechanism constructed on reverse principles4 ,the wheel is made on the principle of suspension1 an inverted application of weight and thrust4 ,the hub is hung from the rim1 and the axle supported in that way4 ,each bicycle wheel is really two wheels1 graceful in form1 with but one rim1 and with two hubs1 one on either end of a short axle1 the spokes being drawn to a common rim1 and made stiff enough to carry weight1 and elastic enough to withstand shock4 ,the rim or frame is elastic and durable4 ,to this rim many wire spokes are fastened1 and the hubs for each wheel are centred and hung from them4 ,the hubs and axle are wider than the rim of the wheel1 and the spokes are fastened alternately to either end1 thus giving a tangent strain which stiffens the wheel and gives it strength4 ,the tire is a separate construction1 possessing several individual features4 ,the only office of the old tire was to protect the rim of the wheel from wear2 the pneumatic tire protects the rim1 presents a good friction surface1 and is enabled by its elasticity to take the shock and jar of the entire bicycle4 ,in order that the wheel may turn1 the axle must be lubricated2 otherwise the inside of the hub will become hot1 and wear the face of the axle a little rough4 ,the surfaces then cannot pass1 but remain fixed and immovable1 and the wheel cannot turn4 ,the introduction of a third material of a different consistency between the revolving surfaces prevents their wearing against each other1 and the lubricant is rubbed and rubbed again2 there is so little of the lubricant that it does not accumulate sufficiently to cause resistance1 and the moving surfaces slip smoothly over each other4 ,the axle of a modern bicycle wheel is compound1 and although there are two ends to the axle1 there is but one rim to the wheel4 ,the rim carries all the weight distributed from many points at once2 the weights resist each other1 and give strength and stiffness4 ,the axle really carries double1 two wheels with but one rim2 and each end of the axle is supported at so many points that it possesses great weight-carrying power in proportion to the weight of material used in its construction4 ,the weight of the frame is supported on the axles of the rear and front wheels4 ,of its construction it is sufficient to say that the weight is taken up on the thrust principle and that wherever a point of support for the thrust is located1 the frame is strengthened to support and resist the thrust4 ,by a mechanical application of power1 the power of the pressure of the foot on the pedal is multiplied1 one revolution of the pedal crank causing the rear wheel to revolve a number of times4 ,in the chain gear the mechanical means is a large wheel on the axle to which the pedal cranks are attached1 and a smaller wheel on the axle of the rear wheel4 ,there are teeth on both these wheels1 the large wheel having the greater number4 ,the band or chain passing over the large sprocket-wheel has links which engage each tooth of the wheel as the chain passes over it1 and as that wheel revolves1 it pulls the chain over1 link by link4 ,the small wheel is also provided with teeth1 and every time the large sprocket-wheel is turned1 if only a little way1 it pulls the chain link by link1 and the chain link by link pulls the rear wheel tooth by tooth4 ,the small sprocket-wheel revolves as the chain pulls it1 revolving oftener than the large wheel to keep count with it tooth for tooth4 ,the number of teeth on the sprocket-wheels determines the multiplicity of revolutions of the rear wheel4 ,the rear wheel revolves very rapidly1 in the process becoming virtually a gyroscope2 and a gyroscope will maintain the plane in which it revolves unless other forces intervene4 ,the front wheel takes its motion from the friction of the surface over which it is propelled1 and after the bicycle is in motion1 the forces that are applied to control and direct its movement are friction and resistance4 ,after the cyclist is mounted1 there is the added complication of a constantly shifting centre of gravity1 caused by change of balance4 ,the steering is effected by changing the direction of the front wheel1 the rear wheel being enabled to follow by a slight slipping over the wheeling surface4 ,if the change of direction is too abrupt1 the rear wheel will slip enough to lose its hold on the surface1 and the weight of the rider will be suddenly shifted from above the point of support 7the axle of the rear wheel7 to the top of the rim of the wheel1 thus becoming a lever with the weight on the end of the long arm1 and the bicycle falls over4 ,as the wheels revolve1 there is a constant pull on tire and rim4 ,just as the chain is pulled over the sprocket-wheels1 the tire is pulled by friction over the surface ridden on4 ,if this surface affords the tire no hold1 it is impossible for the wheel to advance1 as on a muddy surface4 ,the crank may impart a motion to the wheel1 but this motion will not enable the wheel to maintain its place2 or if1 in overcoming the cranks at the dead centre1 too much weight is applied to one side of the wheel1 the same thing occurs1 and the wheel falls over4 ,there are a number of mechanical means for conveying the motion of the foot to the wheel of the bicycle to cause the wheels to revolve4 ,there are many ways of constructing a frame1 and different designs and patterns of fittings for different parts2 but the main idea of the bicycle does not change--a fixed wheel to which motion is imparted1 and a movable or guiding wheel1 independent of the power wheel1 and revolving only because the machine is pushed or pulled forward4 ,this second wheel gives stability1 and supports the wheel at a movable point4 ,we have1 therefore1 a wheel which supports a frame and the weight it carries4 ,the frame is supported on two wheels1 one end of the frame taking the weight1 and that end supported on one wheel4 ,the second wheel merely supports one end of the frame4 ,if the frame were attached at one end directly and rigidly to the second wheel1 the weight carrying wheel would move in the same plane with it4 ,a child's two-wheeled cart will illustrate this4 ,while moving forward in a straight line1 the child is safe until one or both of the wheels begin to travel in a rut1 when the rigid handle or tongue of the cart resists the guiding power1 and the child is pulled or thrown over4 ,if the tongue or frame of the wagon is allowed play1 as it is called1 say by being held easily in the hand1 the pole may be guided4 ,the supported end of the frame of the bicycle corresponds to the pole or tongue of the cart4 ,now1 the wheel is made to steer in this way3 ,we have the rigid forks1 and a wheel to support them4 ,the forks hold the wheel in the same plane as themselves1 but the top part of each fork1 instead of being fastened immovably to the frame1 passes up through a bearing-head prepared for it in the frame4 ,the wheel is supported1 but it can now maintain a separate plane1 and as the post of the forks changes its direction1 it pulls the frame with it as it advances2 and so the controlling or steering power is transferred4 ,the weight-bearing wheel is led and directed2 part of its power is transferred by thrust or push to the front wheel1 and as the steering wheel is pushed over the surface1 it revolves4 ,as it revolves1 part of its power is diverted by the movable head1 and as the head is held and controlled by the rider1 any desired direction may be imparted to the entire machine4 ,a bicycle may have either a diamond frame or a drop frame4 ,the drop frame is made to facilitate mounting and to permit the adjustment of a woman's dress4 ,the diamond frame possesses great strength1 and can be lightened to a wonderful degree without injury to the thrust and strain-bearing quality of its construction4 ,a form of triangle is made use of to carry the greatest weight and bear the greatest strain4 ,this triangle is supported on the rear wheel1 and has part of the frame attached to it to connect it with the steering-wheel4 ,the steering-wheel is provided with handles by which it may be controlled4 ,the weight of the rider is carried over the power wheel1 and the propelling power1 a lever movement1 is imparted by the foot4 ,from this description an idea may be formed of how and why a bicycle works2 but the details of its mechanism are of endless variety of form and pattern1 material and workmanship4 ,each small part1 its form1 its use1 its angles of surface1 its every detail indeed1 is the product of the work of many minds for many years4 ,and though the bicycle was looked for1 and hoped for1 and worked for1 its general acceptance came suddenly1 and came only when it had been built light enough and strong enough and elastic enough to warrant confidence in its universal usage4 ,,chapter ,,iv4 ,for ,beginners4 ,mount and away6 ,how easy it seems4 ,to the novice it is not as easy as it looks1 yet everyone1 or almost everyone1 can learn to ride1 though there are different ways of going about it4 ,unless the beginner is one of those fortunate beings who mount1 and as it were1 wheel at sight1 little need be said about instruction at this stage of proceedings if a bicycle school is within reach4 ,a few suggestions may be desirable1 however1 even with a competent instructor4 ,nothing more quickly exhausts one's strength than the first few minutes with a bicycle4 ,this is due to the fact that many unused muscles are called upon to do unaccustomed work and to work together in new combinations2 and the effort required and the accompanying nervous excitement produce a sudden and apparently unaccountable fatigue4 ,normal conditions can be restored by resting long enough to allow repair of the wasted tissues4 ,it is well to stop when a little tired1 rather than to persist and finish the lesson1 even if extra lessons are necessary to make up for lost time4 ,no one can really learn anything when tired1 and it is unwise to attempt it4 ,in this matter no one else can judge for you4 ,illustration3 ,,correct ,,position--,,leaning ,,with ,,the ,,wheel4 ,what a horrible moment it is when first mounted on a bicycle1 a mere machine1 a thing quite beyond your control1 and unable even to stand by itself4 ,but it is impossible to tell without trying whether or not you can manage a bicycle4 ,make the experiment1 therefore1 and find out4 ,any competent teacher will guarantee success1 and after the first five minutes on the bicycle can tell how long it will take you to learn4 ,the time varies with the individual2 the period of instruction may last for five minutes or for six months1 without counting extra lessons for fancy wheeling4 ,don't try to get the better of your wheel4 ,you cannot teach it anything1 and there is really much for you to learn4 ,what to keep in mind when taking your lesson4--,attend to the bicycle and to nothing else4 ,don't attempt to talk1 and look well ahead of the machine1 certainly not less than twenty feet4 ,remember that the bicycle will go wherever the attention is directed4 ,in sitting upon the wheel1 the spinal column should maintain the same vertical plane that the rear wheel does1 and should not bend laterally to balance in the usual manner4 ,a new balance must be acquired1 and other muscular combinations than those that are familiarly called upon4 ,to wheel by rule is the better plan until the natural balance of the bicyclist is developed4 ,sit erect and sit still4 ,the bicycle must be kept from falling by a wiggling movement of the front wheel1 conveyed by means of the handle-bar4 ,when moving1 the rapidly revolving wheels maintain the vertical plane by rotation1 with but little assistance or correction from the handle-bars4 ,it is a good plan1 while the instructor assists you1 to pedal with one foot at a time1 holding the other foot free4 ,this will enable you to determine the amount of pressure it is necessary to exert to cause the wheels to revolve4 ,when both feet are on the pedals1 they oppose each other4 ,the weight should be lifted from the ascending pedal1 or else the descending foot must push the other foot up until that foot is in position to exert a downward pressure4 ,this instruction applies to forward pedaling only2 for back pedaling or backing1 the movement should be reversed4 ,practise pushing first with one foot and then with the other1 taking the weight off the opposite pedal in each case4 ,at each push of the pedal1 a little pull on the handle-bars1 pulling with the hand on the same side on which you are pushing with the foot1 will keep the wheel from falling4 ,look well ahead4 ,the bicycle covers the ground very rapidly1 and the eye does not at first receive impressions quickly enough to enable you to know where to look and what to look for4 ,as soon as your teacher will allow it1 take the wheel for a little walk4 ,this may seem rather an absurd proceeding1 but it will assist you greatly in learning the feel and tendencies of the machine4 ,lead the bicycle about carefully1 holding the handles with both hands and avoiding the revolving pedals4 ,learn to stand it up1 to turn it quickly1 and to back it in a limited space4 ,illustration3 ,,incorrect ,,position--,,leaning ,,against ,,the ,,inclination ,the machine heretofore has been arranged for you4 ,now you can begin to think how you would like to have it adjusted4 ,you will1 perhaps1 find fault with the saddle4 ,the saddle is a very important adjunct1 and much depends upon its proper adjustment4 ,a large1 soft saddle is usually preferred by the beginner1 and perhaps this is a good kind to learn to balance on2 but it is a very poor kind to wheel on1 for many reasons4 ,at first1 in practising pedaling1 the height of the saddle should permit the hollow of the foot to rest firmly on the pedal when the pedal is lowest4 ,the ball of the foot only should press on the pedal4 ,the foot should be made to follow the pedal as early as possible4 ,point the toe downward on the last half of the down stroke1 and keep pointing it until the pedal is at its lowest1 following the pedal with the foot1 and pointing downward until the pedal is half way on the up stroke4 ,this carries the crank past the dead centre4 ,to acquire a proper method1 attention should be directed to each foot alternately4 ,to learn to balance1 have the saddle raised as high as possible1 so that the ball of the foot just touches the pedal at its lowest4 ,practise wheeling in this way1 with an instructor1 or alone on a smooth surface where you are sure to be undisturbed4 ,the hands naturally take a position where it is easy to grasp the handles of the handle-bars4 ,the handle-bar conveys two principal movements to the first wheel--a short wiggling movement and a long or steering sweep4 ,the handle-bars also assist in maintaining the seat at first4 ,the beginner usually exerts too much pressure on the pedals1 and has to pull correspondingly hard on the handles to correct the falling tendency of the machine4 ,this is very hard work1 and stiff arms and shoulders and blistered hands may be often thus accounted for2 they are the result of badly balanced pedaling4 ,to be able to sit comfortably at work1 and to feel that it is not so hard after all1 is a great advance4 ,now1 the question of that other foot4 ,by this time which 8the other foot0 is will have become quite evident2 it is always the foot to which attention for the moment is not directed1 and which consequently may meet unexpected disaster--a lost pedal1 perhaps1 with its accompanying inconveniences4 ,downward pressure with the foot is easily acquired and needs little effort4 ,to take the pressure off the ascending pedal at the right moment is a more difficult matter4 ,usually considerable practice in cycling is necessary before the unused lifting muscles are strengthened sufficiently by exercise to permit them to do their work easily4 ,there is a third movement of the handle-bars--a quick twist in the direction the machine is leaning if about to fall2 it is made suddenly1 and brings the wheel back to its original position4 ,if the wheel were stationary1 and the front wheel were turned1 the bicycle would fall in an opposite direction from the front wheel4 ,if the wheel is about to fall1 it can be prevented from doing so by throwing the balance the other way by means of the handle-bars4 ,a similar result is accomplished by wiggling the front wheel1 and when a bicycle is moving very slowly1 a continuous wiggle--changing the balance as the machine inclines from side to side--is necessary to keep it upright4 ,the body should incline with the rear wheel and maintain the same plane with it1 becoming as much as possible a part of the wheel1 as though united by a straight bar going from the base of the tire to the top of the head4 ,the rear wheel and all the weight that it carries is governed by the front wheel and controlled by means of the handle-bars4 ,the rear wheel supporting all the rider's weight1 the power is applied to that wheel4 ,the front wheel serves only for balance and steering4 ,it is not necessary to provide a complete outfit to take the first lesson4 ,if you possess a pair of knickerbockers1 so much the better4 ,wear an old dress1 easy shoes and gloves1 and a hat that will stay on under any conditions4 ,the clothing should be as loose as possible about the waist4 ,wear flannels1 and no tight bands of any kind or anything elastic4 ,as respiration is increased by the exercise1 the clothing should be loose enough to allow of a long deep breath1 drawn easily1 taken by expanding the chest at the lower ribs to fill the lungs4 ,this precaution being taken1 giddiness and short-windedness can result only from over-exercise4 ,ten or fifteen minutes' practise is enough at first2 and a half hour's lesson later1 with several stops for rest1 is the best rule for many people1 particularly those unaccustomed to active exercise4 ,if you are an equestrian1 you will meet with many unexpected problems4 ,the bicycle will do nothing for you1 and the lack of horse-sense must be supplied by your own intelligence4 ,it is well1 when learning1 to remove all bicycle accessories4 ,they are only in the way1 and add weight and distract the attention4 ,the propelling of the bicycle--that is the one idea to keep in mind4 ,make the machine go2 shove it along4 ,never mind if you are not quite comfortable or at ease at first4 ,sit on your saddle and stay there4 ,do not try to balance the machine4 ,lean the way the machine inclines1 not away from it1 as it will be your first impulse to do4 ,the bicycle is not to be fought against2 it is to be propelled and controlled2 and the art is not difficult to acquire4 ,avoid starting a bicycle on a down grade when you are learning4 ,for on a slight1 even an almost imperceptible incline1 the cycler must back-pedal2 but the beginner wishes to propel the bicycle1 and for that purpose must use an altogether different muscular combination4 ,,chapter ,v4 ,how to ,make ,progress4 ,you have learned to wheel a bicycle1--have had some lessons1 can take the machine and mount it1 wheel a little way1 and fall off2 or can wheel for some time without a dismount1 but feel utterly exhausted after a short spin4 ,you have accomplished what you attempted1--you can wheel a bicycle2 but you feel dissatisfied4 ,you have tried to ride with friends1 perhaps1 and have had to give it up2 yet you feel that you should be able to do what others have done and are doing all the time4 ,it is very discouraging4 ,what you should have now is a suitable and comfortable wheeling outfit4 ,you perhaps have a bicycle of your own2 if not1 a good wheel may be hired reasonably4 ,the matter of dress is now all-important1 and a costume suitable for cycling should be selected2 it is impossible to do good work or to practise comfortably unless you are properly dressed4 ,choose for a practice ride a pleasant day1 with little or no wind1 and neither too hot nor too cold4 ,the atmospheric conditions are an important factor in bicycling2 indeed1 beginners are often discouraged by external conditions which really have nothing to do with their mastery of the machine4 ,take the bicycle out on a smooth road1 where you may have two or three miles free from traffic1 and as level as possible4 ,if the road is muddy or slippery1 wait for the proper conditions4 ,unless the surface is smooth and dry1 it is better to take the bicycle back without attempting to mount it4 ,if two or three miles of good road are not accessible1 a quarter-mile stretch or even less will serve4 ,select a good pathway1 however short4 ,see that the wheel is adjusted to suit you2 the saddle of a comfortable height1 certainly not too high2 the handle-bars convenient to grasp4 ,assure yourself that all the nuts are secure1 the saddle and handle-bars firm4 ,spin the pedals to see that they revolve easily4 ,make up your mind before mounting how far you want to go2 mount the machine1 wheel it for this distance1 and dismount4 ,do not try to look about while wheeling4 ,give your whole attention to the bicycle and keep your eyes fixed in the direction you are travelling4 ,avoid hollows and cart-ruts1 though these should not occur if the locality for practice is well chosen4 ,if an unexpected hollow or hump should be encountered1 hold hard to the handle-bars and press firmly on the pedals1 rising at the same time a little from the saddle4 ,the pedals are most important parts1 the controlling power being centred in them4 ,if there is a good hand-brake on the bicycle1 it is well to note its action and to understand how to apply it2 for in case of a lost pedal1 its application might give a little confidence4 ,by a 8lost pedal0 is meant1 not that part of the machine is literally lost1 but that the foothold is missed on it1 and so control of the wheel lost for the moment4 ,illustration3 ,,proper ,,way ,,to ,,stand ,a ,,bicycle4 ,if out of breath1 wait until rested4 ,rest for a few minutes in any case1 and look about1 and note the surface wheeled over4 ,then plan another spin1 of perhaps a few hundred feet4 ,fix upon an objective point1 wheel to it1 and dismount4 ,rest thoroughly1 and mount again4 ,be careful to avoid becoming chilled while resting1 stopping only long enough to restore the natural breathing and to look over the road4 ,half an hour of this kind of work at first every suitable day is enough4 ,if you are strong and accustomed to active exercise1 the time may be prolonged to an hour or an hour and a half2 or you may practise twice daily1 morning and afternoon1 or afternoon and evening4 ,cycling weather is an uncertain quantity1 and all possible advantages should be taken of it4 ,if tired after the first day's practice1 do not attempt to resume it until entirely rested1 even if it is necessary to wait for two or three days2 for unless the wheel is well understood and the wheeler fairly practised1 it is hard work4 ,the practised cyclist controls the bicycle without conscious effort1 and may direct his attention to his surroundings2 but the novice must concentrate his attention on his machine4 ,a bicycle should always be handled carefully2 for though it is made strong enough for the emergencies of being thrown and pulled and twisted1 none of these things improve it4 ,keep the polish free from scratches1 and the more delicate parts free from dents4 ,do not let the bicycle fall or throw it down carelessly4 ,learn to balance it against a curb or post or fence or any other convenient object1 without injury to the bicycle or to the supporting surface4 ,a bicycle will balance in this way3 ,the front wheel kept from moving at either the tire or the centre of the frame2 the pedal resting against some firm object4 ,do not wheel near anything1 but give yourself as much room as possible4 ,a practised cyclist can take a bicycle wherever it is possible to walk1 but it is sometimes a feat to do this4 ,the proper position cannot be too soon acquired4 ,sit erect and not too far from the handle-bars4 ,let the hands grasp the handles in an easy1 natural position4 ,the saddle should be quite over the pedals to give a natural movement1 forward1 down1 back1 and up4 ,the bicycle is sensitive1 and yields to almost unconscious direction2 but if the eye is not trained to judge distances1 steering will be difficult at first4 ,it is necessary to look well ahead1 to decide quickly what you will do1 and to do it4 ,pedal fast1 but do not hurry4 ,don't try to find out how fast you can go4 ,this is not a good time for such an experiment2 it will be easy later to test your speed4 ,pedal fast enough to keep the machine running easily and smoothly and to feel it take care of itself a little4 ,it is easier to guide and control it when it is in motion with the wheels rolling rapidly4 ,illustration3 ,,carrying ,,the ,,bicycle4 ,it is not a good plan to select a very light wheel for practice4 ,the tendencies and the peculiarities of the bicycle are more readily determined when there is a little weight to resist4 ,be careful to wear nothing tight1 particularly shoes1 gloves1 waistband1 or hat2 for they might prove a source of discomfort or even danger4 ,learn to steady the bicycle as soon as you can4 ,it will wiggle and wobble from a number of causes4 ,the front wheel must be kept steady4 ,wobbling results from losing the sense of direction for a moment4 ,to overcome the difficulty1 either stop and dismount1 or1 if it is possible1 increase your speed4 ,before taking a bicycle out1 have any oil that may have settled on the outside of the bearings wiped off1 and add a little fresh oil to the oil-cups4 ,the chain or power gear should be lubricated1 and any superfluous lubricant carefully removed4 ,the ease with which the bicycle runs depends on proper cleaning and oiling2 an illy cared for or badly oiled machine1 moreover1 is very unpleasant to handle4 ,a course of practice will inspire confidence1 and wobbling will occur less and less frequently4 ,then the inequalities of surface will be noticed1 and the cyclist will wonder why it is harder to wheel in some places and in certain directions4 ,parts of the road are covered1 the wheeler being almost unconscious of exerting any force1 and again in places the foot seems to be pushed up4 ,ease and comfort in wheeling are dependent to a large degree on the wind and to a much larger degree on the grades and hills4 ,a very little grade1 a very slight rise1 quite unnoticeable to the pedestrian1 is disagreeably obvious to the bicyclist4 ,the difficulty presented may be overcome by pushing on the pedal at the right place as it descends1 and at the right time1 time and place being also adjusted to the weight and power of the bicyclist4 ,to push at just the right time on a grade assures an easy ascent4 ,any difficulty in pedaling may be traced to a wrong application of power4 ,hill-climbing and grade work require thought and practice4 ,do not be discouraged because a little bit of a hill seems quite impossible4 ,overcoming grades is no easy matter1 and is usually learned slowly2 every time a grade is attempted1 however1 some progress is made4 ,wheel as far as it is possible to go comfortably2 then dismount1 and walk the rest of the way4 ,never try to mount on an up grade unless you are expert1 for this is a difficult and most fatiguing thing to do4 ,when mounting1 notice the grade1 and if it is downward1 do not have the mounting pedal at its full height2 and select a clear place to mount in4 ,if an up grade must be wheeled over1 it is often advisable to mount in a downward direction1 wheel far enough for a start1 and then turn to ascend without dismounting4 ,learn to pedal slowly and steadily and to start and stop easily4 ,these things may be practised at convenient times1 and with sufficient practice will be mastered1 but meanwhile need keep no one from attempting a moderately long run4 ,illustration3 ,,picking ,,up ,a ,,bicycle4 ,uncertain attempts at mounting are very fatiguing4 ,get some one to mount and start you when off for the first long outings2 the energy saved can be better utilized in wheeling4 ,do not be afraid to wheel over small inequalities if their direction is at right angles to the direction of the bicycle2 but avoid all ruts and depressions parallel with the wheel's direction4 ,it is easy to slip into them1 and difficult to get out of them without a spill4 ,never eat a full meal before starting on a bicycle trip2 if possible1 set the time for starting at least an hour after eating4 ,ten1 twenty1 and thirty miles are often covered after the first or second trial4 ,it is better to sit on your wheel and pedal slowly than to dismount4 ,getting on and off1 stopping and starting1 are much more fatiguing than wheeling2 and it is well to economize your strength at this stage4 ,always see that the tool-kit is in place on the bicycle1 and never go far without a wrench and a screw driver4 ,the tires also should receive close attention2 they should be properly inflated1 and the hand-pump carried on a convenient place on the machine4 ,it is never well to use a tire that is not property inflated4 ,avoid all broken glass1 nails1 etc41 and do not rest the wheel against a barbed wire fence4 ,the wheeler who desires to succeed cannot too soon begin to observe and take notes4 ,early learn to use the wrench yourself1 and study how to apply that instrument properly4 ,study the different parts of the bicycle1 and note how they are put together2 and particularly observe each nut and screw1 and determine its purpose4 ,each nut must be at its proper tension to hold securely4 ,study the valves of the tires and learn their construction2 and be sure you know how to apply the pump-coupling properly4 ,learn the names and uses of the different parts of the bicycle1 and study their construction4 ,this is mechanical geography1 if ,i may use such a term4 ,learn to care for your health and how to prepare your system to resist fatigue4 ,then you will find that you have mastered the subject1 and are prepared to avail yourself of the many pleasures of the sport4 ,the oftener discouraged1 the oftener the opportunity to hope again4 ,the art of bicycling is a purely mechanical attainment2 and though its complications may at first seem hopeless1 sufficient practice will result in final mastery4 ,,chapter ,,vi4 ,helping and ,teaching2 ,what to ,learn4 ,accuracy is the first principle of cycling2 and the would-be bicyclist should learn as early as possible that ease of movement and precision of movement are inseparable2 and that bruises and bumps and wrenches1 though they may have an educational value1 are not a necessary accompaniment of the sport4 ,the skilful instructor need never allow a scratch or a bruise4 ,some people want to learn everything at once2 but only so much should be done at each attempt as can be done accurately1 if it be only walking the machine about and standing it up4 ,this exercise is helpful1 for walking a bicycle about requires a series of accurate movements1 and accurate movement is necessary in learning mounting and propelling4 ,the bicycle is a marvel of adjustment1 and the bicyclist is obliged to adopt movements that correspond with the movements of the bicycle4 ,the more accurate this correspondence of movement1 the greater the ease of propulsion4 ,the lines and angles of the levers of feet and legs must be studied to so apply them as to secure the best results4 ,avoid undue tension4 ,learn just how much to lean the bicycle in mounting1 just where to place the foot1 where to stand in relation to the handle-bars1 and where to place the weight on the machine4 ,this understood1 mounting is accomplished4 ,the bicycle may be mastered1 and easily mastered1 by remembering all the things not to do and by doing all the things that should be done4 ,to assist another to do what you do not know how to do yourself is not an easy task2 yet there are people who are willing to undertake it4 ,a bicycle is so nicely balanced that it is easy to hold it up if it is taken hold of in the right way4 ,grasp the back of the saddle firmly with one hand1 take hold of one of the handles with the other1 and the machine is in your power4 ,a person seated on the saddle with a firm hold of the handles of the handle-bar1 becomes1 as it were1 a part of the machine1 and when sitting quite still is governed by the same laws of balance that control the bicycle4 ,take hold of a bicycle with some one seated in the saddle1 and move it a few inches forward1 then a few inches backward1 and it becomes at once perceptible that but little force is necessary to overcome the inertia of the combined weights of wheel and rider4 ,the wheel has a tendency to fall to either side1 but it is easy to balance the weight on the tires4 ,then hold the wheel a little toward you1 for it is easier and less fatiguing than to hold it from you4 ,if the bicycle is allowed to incline from you1 it will pull you over2 if it inclines toward you1 you can support its weight against the shoulder4 ,if the rider sits still and inclines with the machine1 it is easily righted2 but if the rider's weight is thrown in a direction opposite to the inclination of the bicycle1 the tendency to fall is increased1 and the inclined bicycle is pushed over4 ,illustration3 ,,leading ,a ,,bicycle ,,about4 ,before assisting another person with a bicycle1 it is well to note all the tendencies of the machine4 ,this may be done by taking a bicycle and putting it in all the different positions mentioned4 ,the motions are the same whether or not there is any one in the saddle1 and it is well to learn to manage the machine without exerting too much force4 ,stand on the left-hand side of the bicycle1 and hold the saddle with the right hand4 ,the steering may be done with the left hand1 and the bicycle kept upright by wiggling the front wheel4 ,it is better to do this than to attempt to hold the front wheel still4 ,walk the bicycle about by the handle-bars only1 and you will find that to keep the wheel straight it is necessary to hold the bars stiff1 and this is quite a difficult undertaking4 ,allowed to move gently from side to side1 the wheel is more easily controlled4 ,when assisting a person for the first time1 stand beside the machine1 see that the pedal farthest from you is raised to its greatest height1 and move the bicycle forward until the pedal is commencing its down stroke4 ,then let the wheeler step in beside the bicycle1 in front of you and on the same side of the machine1 and grasp both handles firmly4 ,stand as close as possible to the bicycle1 having it inclined toward you at such an inclination that the weight of the wheeler1 stepping to the opposite pedal1 will right it4 ,then1 while you hold the bicycle still1 the wheeler should step on the raised pedal1 stand upon the pedal with the knee stiff1 and then settle slowly on the saddle2 the other foot must find the down pedal4 ,do not let the machine move yet1 but have the beginner go over these movements again1 practising them from both sides of the machine until a little confidence is felt4 ,it is all important to get on the saddle quickly and easily and without necessity for readjustment4 ,if a skirt is worn1 it should be arranged before placing the weight on the pedal1 and the knee should be slightly bent when the pedal is lowest4 ,the saddle should be the right height2 the handle-bars should be a trifle high1 that is1 when the rider sits erect2 the hands should rest easily and comfortably on the hand-grips4 ,now the thing for the rider to do is to ride and hold on to the handles4 ,don't let the wheel get away from you4 ,to prevent an accident1 should this happen1 the beginner should know how to come off the bicycle4 ,an active person can step to the ground before the wheel has time to fall4 ,to get off1 step on the pedal that is down1 and throw the other foot over4 ,if the saddle is not right1 dismount the wheeler in this way3 ,have the wheeler's feet firmly placed on both pedals1 and see that the down pedal is on the side on which you are standing4 ,pull the machine a little to that side1 and see that the foot is on the down pedal4 ,then direct the wheeler to step on this down pedal1 throwing all the weight on it1 and to pass the raised foot over in front of the down foot to the ground4 ,the foot on the down pedal should not be removed until the other foot1 placed on the ground1 has taken the rider's weight4 ,illustration3 ,,preparing ,,to ,,dismount4 ,say that you are now going to move1 and let the wheeler mount as before4 ,show that a wiggling movement must be kept up with the front wheel1 and say that you will help to do it4 ,see that the wheeler has both handles held firmly1 and then grasp the bars just in front of the handle4 ,keep firm hold of the saddle1 and control the balance and push by that1 letting the bars do their own work4 ,a learner always pushes too hard on the pedals4 ,take the machine about1 and trot it up and down1 holding it firmly and keeping it balanced4 ,should it pull you over1 the wheeler can step off without difficulty4 ,it is much easier for two than for one to help a beginner4 ,a trio of novices can form a very fair school4 ,a bicycle is inclined either to pull or to push1 and if supported on both sides1 the pulling tendency is avoided and the pushing tendency readily corrected4 ,if ladies are helping one another1 the best way is for two to hold the bicycle1 standing one on each side of the machine4 ,both should hold the saddle and both should hold the handle-bars just beyond the handles and above the hands of the wheeler4 ,one should instruct1 and the other help to hold the machine4 ,let a beginner first learn to mount1 then to dismount1 practising these movements several times before starting2 then1 having made sure that the pedal on that side is two-thirds up1 come to the left hand side of the wheel1 step on the pedal1 and be seated in the saddle2 then put the weight on the pedal that is down1 and step off with the other foot4 ,repeat several times1 mounting from each side1 dismounting on the same side and on the opposite side1 at command1 and repeating4 ,tilt the wheel as the weight goes on the pedal4 ,dismount the pupil1 and walk the wheel about between you1 wiggling the front wheel4 ,then mount your pupil1 and proceed as already explained4 ,after the pupil begins to propel the wheel1 very little assistance from the instructor is necessary1 and care should be taken not to confuse the pupil as to the amount of work they are doing4 ,call attention to the ease with which the wheel is brought up when inclined to fall1 and explain about turning and steering and wiggling1 and what these motions are for4 ,you cannot propel a bicycle unless you know what you are doing2 there cannot be guess-work about it4 ,the perfect confidence that comes with familiarity and practice must precede success4 ,given three people with one bicycle1 all can learn to ride1 helping each other in turn4 ,having learned to mount and dismount1 the next thing is to learn to start the bicycle4 ,the weight should be allowed to start the bicycle as soon as the foot1 pressing on the pedal as it descends1 brings the wheeler to the saddle4 ,the stop should be learned next4 ,the wheeler should be reminded to notice which is the down pedal1 and to step on it with all the weight just as it begins to rise4 ,this will stop the machine1 and the dismount is made in the usual way by throwing the other foot over1 and stepping with that on the ground4 ,the foot that has stopped the machine should not leave the pedal too soon1 but remain on it long enough to control the bicycle4 ,illustration3 ,,dismounting4 ,as soon as the wheeler can pedal a little and has the balance well enough to ride without assistance1 the next thing is to learn to ride over ordinary obstructions1 and to remain on the wheel for a given number of minutes without dismounting4 ,all this can be taught in an ordinary room or on a piazza2 and both teacher and pupil will find a smooth surface1 such as a board floor or a pavement1 best adapted for the work4 ,attention cannot too soon be directed to taking the weight off the ascending pedal1 and the exercise should not be prolonged for a moment after this becomes a difficult thing to do4 ,at first the practice leaves the beginner much agitated and breathless2 but these conditions are overcome after a few lessons1 though experienced riders sometimes experience a return of them when they find mounting difficult and do not notice the grade they are attempting4 ,the sensitiveness of the wheel sometimes puzzles the beginner1 and the sense of adjustment is often difficult to acquire4 ,nervous work and nervous effort are noticeable in no other sport in the same marked degree4 ,some seize and adopt its salient points at once and almost unconsciously1 but the majority are not so fortunate4 ,the first fifteen minutes on a bicycle are frequently enough to cause thorough exhaustion4 ,the best remedy for this is to take the wheel and walk it about2 the pupil should be left alone with it4 ,if fifteen minutes' work is too much1 alternate five minutes' work with rest at the next lesson4 ,the balance and distribution of strength for the pull by the hands is quite important in directing and controlling the machine4 ,the feet are used to propel and to balance4 ,the teacher should note carefully if the beginner errs by incorrect pedaling or by too much pull on the handles1 and correct the wrong tendency4 ,balance by pedaling comes next in order1 and cannot be practised too early2 and as by this time a fair amount of speed will have been attained1 the natural balance begins to be acquired4 ,balanced pedaling and swaying are very different1 and should not be confused4 ,the bicycle may be propelled1 balanced1 and controlled entirely by the pedals2 and as this is the best and most important mode of wheeling1 it should early be understood and attempted4 ,the adjustment of the machine should now be taken up1 and the wheeler should know how and why the bicycle can be changed to suit individual peculiarities4 ,the wiggling tendency of the front wheel lessens as the wheeler acquires confidence2 and its unsteadiness can be overcome and controlled with the balance and by pedaling1 with the swaying of the body or the pressure of either foot4 ,there is much to avoid as well as much to do4 ,incorrect position means difficult work1 almost impossible propulsion and possible personal injury4 ,the knowledge that everything is firmly screwed up about the bicycle1 and particularly that the saddle is secure1 cannot be too soon acquired4 ,never attempt to mount or even to try the bicycle unless the saddle is properly secured and immovable4 ,if anything breaks1 it is not necessarily your fault2 if anything is insecure1 blame no one for not attending to something you should yourself have attended to4 ,always examine the pedals to see that they turn easily2 and be sure about that saddle4 ,it is a good deal of trouble to screw the nut up tight for a few minutes1 or even for half a minute1 but it should be done4 ,when adjusting the saddle1 never be hurried when tools are to be used1 for it is necessary to apply them carefully to insure accuracy2 and a nut really requires serious attention1 for often a good deal depends upon it4 ,if screwed hurriedly1 the thread is in danger of being injured1 and on that thread the holding power of the nut depends4 ,when the beginner can balance and propel the bicycle for a little way alone1 the really tedious part of learning often begins4 ,at this point beginners become discouraged1 for there seems to be nothing new to learn2 yet the results attained are unsatisfactory4 ,what is needed is practice4 ,practise on a smooth piece of road1 with some one running beside the bicycle to give confidence and prevent falls4 ,the proper position in mounting should be studied4 ,in mounting a drop-frame machine1 never step over the frame and place the foot on the ground2 it is an awkward and ungainly method4 ,take a proper position1 then be sure everything is right1 and last of all1 step on the pedal1 and you are moving4 ,a good way to practise1 if you have no one to help you1 is to mount the bicycle in the gutter1 and limp along2 or if in the country1 a roadside fence may give the needed assistance4 ,grasp a post firmly1 and holding by it1 try to mount2 and study the tendencies and the balance of the bicycle without letting go the post4 ,make up your mind how to mount1 start the pedal properly1 and keep trying until you can ride a little4 ,if a little1 why not more8 ,keep on practising1 avoiding faults4 ,for instruction1 the bicycle should be fitted with an instructor's handle1 and the pupil provided with a belt having one handle or more4 ,the instruction handle and a hold on the handle-bar are sufficient safeguard for most pupils1 but the belt will often give confidence to the timid and aid the instructor4 ,,chapter ,,vii4 ,a ,few ,things to ,remember4 ,two important points for the bicyclist to study are avoidance of road traffic and consideration of the surface ridden over4 ,the law of the road applies to all traffic passing over the road2 the law of mechanics to the surface of the road as it affects the bicycle and the cycler4 ,in cities1 on much-used thoroughfares1 careful work1 quick eyes1 experience and caution are demanded to insure safety4 ,the law of the road1 8,keep to the right1 pass on the left anything going in the same direction10 is explicit1 and if always observed would render collisions almost impossible4 ,the avoidance of careless and unobservant travellers is quite a study4 ,passing to the right1 you can see and be seen2 passing on the left1 a traveller moving in the same direction does not become aware of your intention without being notified4 ,you give notice to prevent others from changing their direction and to enable them thus to avoid crowding4 ,to pass a vehicle on the road1 when travelling in the same direction1 involves increase of speed if the vehicle in front maintains its pace2 should it go slower or stop1 and the roadway permits1 a change of pace is neither necessary nor desirable1 unless you wish to steady your machine4 ,in nearing any vehicle or person coming from the opposite direction1 keep your share of the road4 ,be always alert and observant2 do not fail to give ample room to the approaching vehicle2 but on the other hand1 do not permit yourself to be crowded or inconvenienced1 and keep enough of the roadway on your right in reserve in case a change of direction becomes necessary4 ,the importance of having your machine at all times perfectly under control cannot be over-estimated4 ,put faith in your pedaling1 and never ride at greater speed than you can determine and check at will4 ,dependence on any brake1 however perfect its action1 is bad practice4 ,vehicles approaching pass each other on the right4 ,in case of collision1 the vehicle which has maintained the proper side of the roadway has the advantage in case of legal controversy4 ,in passing a vehicle drawn by horses1 the bicycle should keep to the centre of the roadway when possible1 leaving the curb for the horse-drawn vehicle4 ,the bicycle can only draw away from the curb1 and is limited to one direction4 ,the centre of the roadway1 therefore1 affords the best opportunity for a change of direction4 ,sit well on your saddle1 observe the adjustment of the centre of gravity1 but ride on the pedals1 using the weight as much as possible4 ,trust to the pedals only for rough riding and for unexpected inequalities of surface4 ,the study of the mechanics of balance1 resistance1 and friction is most interesting in this connection1 as their action affects cycler or wheel or the combined mechanisms4 ,the law of the road is simple and very generally understood1 though there are reckless and ignorant people who disregard it4 ,the law defines where you shall ride1 how you shall pass1 and sets a limit to increase of speed beyond what is considered compatible with the general safety4 ,there is1 besides1 the unwritten law of courtesy1 more often observed than disregarded2 and there is the law you make for yourself4 ,the traffic of a crowded thoroughfare may be analyzed1 and the conduct of a wheel explained and simplified1 though travel on such routes is difficult at best and had better be avoided4 ,given a long1 straight road1 with two streams of travel from opposite directions4 ,one of these streams will consist of vehicles1 quadrupeds1 and pedestrians1 few maintaining an even rate of progress1 fewer still the same rate4 ,the law requires that you pass on the left1 and you must await the opportunity to do so4 ,when a clear way opens1 take immediate advantage of it1 and increase your speed4 ,should there not be room enough to pass1 signal1 and the vehicle in advance is bound to make way for you4 ,should there be a free road to the right1 you may take it1 but only with the consent of the traveller ahead1 and then at your own risk4 ,never ride more than two abreast4 ,riding in single file1 with ample room for turning1 is better on a crowded street or when making time4 ,for moderate wheeling1 the cyclists being disciplined and drilled1 the distance between bicycles may be shortened4 ,but control of the wheel should be absolute before this is attempted4 ,when travelling at even a moderate rate of speed1 a certain distance between wheels should be observed4 ,when in single file1 turn on the same line1 but not at the same time as the leader4 ,inexperienced wheelers are apt to turn at the moment the wheel ahead turns4 ,should you be following close1 keep on your own line1 unless you see good cause to change your direction4 ,if the leader wishes to stop1 let him turn out3 if you are wanted1 you will know soon enough4 ,gain all the distance you can between dismounts4 ,a little drill and the understanding of a few signals will prove very useful4 ,for the public at large1 the bicycle may be specialized to suit individual needs1 and locomotion becomes simplified1 distances are reduced1 and the obliterated landscape of railroad travel takes form and substance4 ,cycling means travel over well-constructed highways1 with telephone and telegraph1 post-office and express office1 usually easily accessible4 ,to enjoy the full freedom that wheeling should give1 little luggage should be carried1 yet that little must include all necessaries4 ,when a party of six or even twelve start to wheel a given distance1 what are the problems to be met8 ,all being fairly expert cyclists1 in good practice1 sociability is incidental while making time4 ,on the road attention1 strict attention1 to business and to the signals is necessary4 ,conversation is not prohibited2 it is entirely dependent upon the nature of the surface you are travelling4 ,how to keep together is a vexed question1 and a very nice adjustment of animate and inanimate mechanism would be necessary to its satisfactory settlement4 ,the better way is1 all knowing the road1 to wheel along independently1 with an occasional halt1 not necessarily a dismount1 assembling at intervals of half or three-quarters of an hour4 ,the leader should keep back until the roller of the party is hailed1 and has reported1 then increase speed again until the next interval has elapsed4 ,another plan is to wheel with only a given number of minutes headway1 this arrangement keeping the roller-up always within hailing distance4 ,a good leader deserves implicit confidence4 ,he has responsibilities aside from wheeling1 for the comfort and convenience of others must be intelligently studied1 and consideration for each individual cyclist in the party makes constant demand on the qualities of tact and decision2 in other words1 the leader must possess good judgment and be as well a thorough bicyclist4 ,the present rate of wheeling averages ten miles an hour1 and greater speed is undesirable1 except for special purposes4 ,a point to keep in mind is that every five minutes' halt is a mile lost4 ,the time lost in slowing and stopping should also be carefully taken1 as it is of value in reckoning possible mileage4 ,there are grades to hesitate about1 and there are grades to avoid4 ,if a grade seems possible1 try it1 but dismount the instant it becomes hard work4 ,it is better to dismount too soon than to persist too long4 ,without regard to the inclination1 there are two principal kinds of grades--the increased grade and the decreased grade4 ,in mounting the increased grade1 more and more power is required at every stroke to push the machine upward4 ,in mounting the decreased grade1 this additional power is not necessary1 and the ascent is accomplished with little fatigue4 ,increase of grade means application of more power in ascending1 and an increase of momentum in descending4 ,this is on the whole the most dangerous kind of bicycle travel2 for over-work on the ascent1 loss of pedals or dangerous coasting on the descent1 are to be expected1 and danger should be looked for1 and observed in time to be avoided4 ,it is always well to walk an increasing grade1 if the hill be long and steep1 both in ascending and descending4 ,the decreasing grade has many pleasant features1 and on a well-known road may be ridden up or down with ease and with little danger of injury4 ,it is interesting to watch the effect of individual adjustment to hill-work1 a group of bicyclists being almost always scattered when mounting a grade4 ,when and where to apply power and when to make the push tell best on his own machine1 each cyclist must determine by practice and experience4 ,sometimes a long and apparently easy down-grade is rendered dangerous by its increase of pitch2 and seemingly easy roads are often difficult to travel on account of an increasing but almost imperceptible ascent4 ,unless power is applied to the stroke at the right place1 much inconvenience from fatigue will be felt1 and will soon overcome the ambitious bicyclist4 ,when short expeditions are to be undertaken--all trips of more than an hour's duration being so classed--remember that lack of preparation means delay1 and that ignorance entails discomfort4 ,if the start is to be an early one1 go over the bicycle carefully1 see that the lamp is in order1 that matches are convenient1 tools and repair-kit in place1 a small envelope of sewing materials with needle and thread and another of red-cross supplies in the pocket4 ,i have often been laughed at for taking out my lamp for a short afternoon's ride with friends who could ride well enough for their own satisfaction2 and as often have ,i been obliged to help with my lantern's light belated wheels coming in close behind me4 ,a lantern is a convenience at dusk1 or even earlier1 enabling others to see and avoid you2 and this helps more than the uncertain light annoys4 ,for luncheon on a short trip1 it is quite safe to depend on the road2 if you carry luncheon1 a couple of bread-and-butter sandwiches well wrapped in waterproof paper1 and thin slices of cheese in a separate paper1 or hard chocolate and water-biscuit1 are as good as anything2 and such a luncheon may prevent delay in swampy or foggy or damp country from becoming dangerous4 ,study the country you are to travel and the road-surface1 understand your map1 know your route1 its general direction1 etc4 ,always observe the road you cover2 keep a small note-book1 and jot down everything of interest4 ,use the pocket-compass1 even in your home locality1 to fix general direction2 for when detained at night1 such knowledge may prove useful4 ,fog and rain or a moonless night are bewildering1 rendering familiar roads weird and strange2 and1 unlike the driver or equestrian in the dark1 a bicyclist must trust to himself alone4 ,wheeling in the dark1 however1 has some advantages1 as you are apt to ride in a straight line1 and not turn out for bad places in the road2 on the other hand1 a certain amount of risk is necessarily taken4 ,there should be no close riding1 and constant care should be exercised for the avoidance of collision4 ,cycling offers endless opportunities for the formation of clubs1 and cycling clubs there are of all ages and sizes4 ,a simple form of club for the earlier phases of the sport may be organized in this way3 ,buy two bicycles1 and form as small a club as can manage their purchase4 ,keep a register1 and pass the bicycles from member to member1 for say a week at a time1 repairs in case of accident to be paid for by the member using the wheel at the time of the accident4 ,the club may later be enlarged by receiving any desired number of members and purchasing additional wheels in proportion4 ,but nothing is so satisfactory as a chosen mount of your own1 adjusted to suit your individual needs and kept for your own exclusive use4 ,a bicycle exactly adjusted to your liking should be jealously devoted to your individual use4 ,a beautiful machine should be kept free from finger-marks4 ,keep a chamois and a clean piece of cheese-cloth at hand where it is kept1 and use them4 ,nickel holds its polish if not attacked by acid or grease4 ,enamel should be treated differently1 with cold water1 sponge and chamois1 after light dusting4 ,,chapter ,,viii4 ,the ,art of ,wheeling a ,bicycle4 ,there are three very important methods of controlling the bicycle1 namely1 steering by the hands1 guiding by foot-pressure on the pedals1 and guiding by the swaying of the body2 and these methods may be used separately or in combination4 ,the wheels are kept in motion either by pedaling1 or simply by gravity in descending a grade4 ,the use of the hands on the handle-bar is two-fold for the inexperienced--for steering and for correcting undue pressure on the pedals4 ,the hand opposite the pedal that receives too much pressure corrects the tendency of the bicycle by an extra pull on the handle-bars4 ,this is very good exercise1 but it is a useless expenditure of force1 and cannot be prolonged without great fatigue4 ,it is the work of hill-climbing done on the level4 ,the feet are on the pedals1 and the natural tendency is to press equally at all times on both pedals and pull at the same time on both handles4 ,one pedal must descend1 and the other pedal must ascend2 they are attached to the same axle1 which is turned by either pedal or both pedals4 ,as the pedals are always on opposite sides of a circle1 one is always coming up1 and its upward tendency is resisted by any pressure1 however slight4 ,the lifting of the foot1 therefore1 from the ascending pedal means easy wheeling4 ,this is one of the hardest things to realize4 ,if there is little or no pressure to resist from the up-coming pedal1 it is necessary to expend but little force to propel or push the down pedal2 only enough1 indeed1 to overcome the weight or inertia of the bicycle and the bicyclist and of surface friction1 provided there is no grade4 ,but of grades1 there are many2 and to this is due the infinite variety of the sport of cycling1 the muscular development and increased respiration of the cycler4 ,illustration3 ,,correct ,,pedaling4 ,the handle-bars should at all times be ready to receive a sudden grip or squeeze4 ,grip the handles hard when you want to hold on1 and only pull as much as is absolutely necessary2 for if the arms are stiff and rigid from pulling on the bars1 they will not be sensitive enough to control the bicycle4 ,the handles of the bar are the ends of a pair of levers2 and the nearer the hand to the centre of the bar1 the less power is needed to oppose the other hand4 ,when there is a tendency to pull hard on the handles1 gradually slip the hands near the middle of the bar1 and the pull will ease up4 ,the front wheel1 to run easily1 should run steadily2 and the less wiggle there is1 the better for steady travel4 ,the pedal is the projection on the crank adapted to the use of the foot4 ,there are many varieties of pedals1 of differing sorts1 weights1 patterns1 and purposes4 ,the foot placed on the pedal pushes it down2 the push is communicated to the wheel to propel the bicycle forward4 ,as the pedal leaves the dead centre1 the power begins to take effect1 and continues until the dead centre below is reached4 ,now1 it is necessary to push at just the right time and place2 if too soon and too hard1 the wheels of the bicycle will go too fast1 and must be retarded by pressing down on the up-coming pedal4 ,the natural weight pressure of the foot is more than enough to propel the bicycle over ordinary surfaces at a fair rate of speed1 without the application of great muscular power4 ,the foot should be placed squarely on the pedal1 the ball of the foot only resting on it1 and the toe pointing downward4 ,the foot may be made to perform divers duties1 and numberless new combinations of pressure can be and are called for and applied4 ,to apply more power in the stroke1 begin to push when the pedal is all the way up1 the toe pointing down until at the lowest part of the stroke1 ready to follow the pedal around1 pushing it backwards1 and helping to lift it4 ,here the toe-clip helps1 and holds the foot on the pedal1 in the place where the tendency to leave it is greatest4 ,balanced pedaling is a little different1 and weight-pressure on the pedal is used as a factor to overcome the front wheel4 ,use the weight as much as possible to propel1 and reserve the push for hard grade-work4 ,keep the knees well turned in2 it squares the foot and prevents the ankle from receiving hard knocks4 ,when the knee is turned out1 the ankle bones are turned in1 and so receive many a bruise that could have been avoided4 ,to keep the ankles from interfering1 turn the knees in1 and ride square leg4 ,illustration3 ,,following ,,pedal4 ,controlling a bicycle on a down-grade requires pressure on the ascending pedal4 ,point the heel down or hold the toe up1 and an even pressure will be maintained4 ,let the lift come with the heel well squared and the leg as straight as possible1 the weight to be supplied at the right point on the up stroke to control the machine4 ,always use the weight when possible as a supplementary driving power4 ,the pedals differ in construction and in material1 being differently adapted for racing and for road work4 ,a pedal with a good broad resting surface for the foot is very comfortable1 though a 8rat-trap0 pedal used with a stiff-soled shoe is lighter and preferable4 ,toe-clips are desirable for those who can use them easily1 but for a novice they are dangerous1 being liable to cause the mishaps they are intended to prevent4 ,experienced bicyclers prefer any discomfort to that of a lost pedal1 and when wheeling with only a light1 even pressure1 toe-clips are good reminders2 but their principal use is to apply more power and help the foot to carry the pedal around and back4 ,the swaying of the body controls the bicycle from the saddle4 ,in walking the bicycle about1 it is soon perceived that it may be directed by holding the saddle only4 ,the pressure comes from the saddle1 and the bicycle is swayed by the rider1 by leg pressure against the saddle4 ,there is little or no shoulder movement1 and the body1 though flexible1 does not move perceptibly4 ,when starting a machine1 hold it well balanced by the handle-bars1 and know how much inclination to allow4 ,take hold1 and mount steadily and easily1 and move off quietly1 noting the running of the bicycle4 ,gradually increase the speed1 leaning a little forward to lessen any sudden strain and to help the push on the pedals4 ,then increase the stroke to the desired speed1 and the machine will take care of itself4 ,speed power may be increased1 and it is good practice to slow1 and start again at will4 ,figure wheeling1 with a good leader1 is capital practice to insure steadiness and increase the power of control over the bicycle4 ,it is not easy to stop suddenly when going at a good rate of speed1 and it is well to know your limit of distance in such case2 nor is it easy to spring alertly from the saddle when bringing up in a dangerous position1 even when frightened into doing it4 ,back pedal hard1 grip with the hands and press down1 holding the bicycle still as you reach the ground4 ,the pedals will not get in the way1 and it is well to remember not to let go of the machine if you do not want to get hurt4 ,to jump off and hold the bicycle still may at times prevent collisions4 ,the cyclist1 however sure of his skill1 should not throw his machine at any one1 even inadvertently4 ,there is much unnecessarily fine riding done--dashing between two passing vehicles1 for instance1 or rushing through a gap instead of wheeling slowly behind a wagon until an open space is reached2 but some prefer the stimulation and excitement of danger to safety1 and like to perform such hazardous feats4 ,illustration3 ,,lifting4 ,steering is a subject for serious consideration2 a sharp eye1 quick determination1 constant care1 and a steady hand are needed4 ,a knowledge of steering is essential for safe coasting2 and as one of the pleasures of cycling is to descend easily the hill you have climbed1 a fair degree of steadiness should be attained4 ,brakes are important aids4 ,learn to brake with the foot1 but do not resort to this expedient unless compelled to4 ,now to consider hill-work4 ,the resistance of the grade is always perceptible2 it is not always recognized4 ,as the angle of ascent increases1 the powers of the bicyclist are taxed4 ,the spindle of the pedal describes a circle4 ,the foot part of the pedal revolves around the spindle1 and permits the foot to take any angle that is needed for the best application of power1 the plane always1 however1 remaining parallel with the spindle4 ,this arrangement of the pedal allows of ankle-motion within certain limits2 and to give greater efficiency1 the foot and ankle may move in adjustment with the weight and power to be applied4 ,this is the much-talked-of ankle-motion4 ,the pressure may be applied to the pedal by this ankle-motion at any part or at all parts of the circle that the pedal describes4 ,as constructed1 the pedal permits free ankle and instep movement1 prevents cramping of the foot1 and allows the foot the same freedom that it has in walking or running4 ,ease of work depends on proper application of power4 ,to be able to apply just the right amount of push to carry the crank past the dead centre1 and to pull it past the lowest dead centre1 and to follow the pedal accurately1 is the aim of all good pedal work4 ,the push down is almost instinctive2 but the lifting of the weight from the ascending pedal can be acquired only by practice1 when the muscles have become sufficiently accustomed to the work to move without the effort of mental concentration that they seem to require in the beginning4 ,the power of the stroke may be given by applying the weight after the dead centre is passed4 ,the weight should be entirely removed from the ascending pedal1 and the balance and sway used to take the pull off the handle-bars by throwing the weight from side to side for that purpose4 ,the weight and balance should be directed in this way3 ,if the push on the down pedal only is used1 it must be corrected by a pull on the handle2 this pull increases as the grade obstructs the wheel4 ,skilful hill-work shows in the lessened pull on the handles4 ,in travelling on the level1 the ascending foot is pushed up1 and rested by being lifted4 ,there is no reason why the pushing muscles should be stronger than the lifting muscles of the leg except that they are accustomed to do more work4 ,always try to ride a hill1 but never begin by looking at the top to see how far off it is4 ,pay no more attention to the surface than is absolutely required by the nature of the surface4 ,concentrate all thought on the pedals and how best to push or take the pull off the handle-bars4 ,lean a little forward if necessary1 and do not try to increase the stroke4 ,the number of strokes is bound to lessen if the power is not increased proportionately on the ascent4 ,and how can the power be effectively applied unless the work is done intelligently by mental application1 or instinctively by the use of accustomed muscles8 ,illustration3 ,,back ,,pedaling4 ,hills should be ridden easily1 or not ridden at all4 ,it is easier to wheel up an ascent than to walk up1 if the wheeling is properly done4 ,always stop before the hill proves too much for you4 ,never think any incline too steep to attempt2 this is the first move on the road to successful hill-climbing4 ,the seat for hill-work should be made to support the body4 ,the bicyclist should not be obliged to cling to the handles to keep from slipping off over the saddle2 there should be something else to push against4 ,to get all possible power out of the levers1 there should be a sufficiency of fulcrum for the lever to work against2 and the saddle should certainly be made to do duty in hill-work4 ,if there is no support from the rear of the saddle1 the fulcrum must be located at the handle-bars1 which should have all possible strain removed from them to lessen the pedal work4 ,a saddle placed at this angle is of little use as a fulcrum on an incline4 ,in all work1 levers and fulcrums are kept in position by the hands1 unless the weight is supported from the saddle4 ,if this principle of the application of power is considered1 the usual difficulty of hill-climbing is overcome4 ,why should it be harder to wheel up hill than to walk up and push a bicycle8 ,in the first place1 it is necessary to be able to stay on the bicycle without holding yourself on2 in the next place1 to know how to apply the power2 and then to perform the work1 keeping all essential points well in mind4 ,wheel up hill with the mouth shut1 or get off2 wheel slowly2 concentrate power to apply it most effectively4 ,power is needed in overcoming both the crank dead centres4 ,the weight should be applied to force the crank downward1 and the weight lifted to let the other crank rise4 ,the body sways to ease the handle pull1 and the bicycle mounts steadily4 ,the inertia1 of course1 becomes more apparent as the weight is resisted by gravity2 so do not attempt to force or strain1 with the idea that hill-climbing is something that must be done4 ,it should be done only when it can be done easily4 ,the rule for climbing universally recommended reads1 8,pay no attention to the hills4 ,ride them40 ,this is good as far as it goes1 but it is of little assistance in mounting an incline4 ,there are two kinds of grades independent of the angle--the increase grade and the decrease grade1 in ascending1 and in descending as well2 for descending is only the reverse of ascending4 ,in approaching an ascending grade1 always note its character1 whether long or short1 what the pitch is1 and particularly if the angle of ascent increases or decreases at the top of the incline1 and prepare for the work before you4 ,illustration3 ,,back ,,pedaling--,,showing ,,distribution ,,of ,,weight4 ,each hill has its peculiarities1 which must be studied and conquered4 ,the actual mounting to the top is not all you have to do2 you should mount in proper trim1 arriving at the summit fresh and fit4 ,it is most saddening to see some one else mount a hill easily1 leaving you1 puffing and pushing1 half way up1 and to know that1 when you reach the top1 speechless and exhausted1 that exasperating person will be seated there1 cool1 contemplative1 and comfortable4 ,intelligent practice1 however1 should result in scientific attainment4 ,the saddle should be adjusted in relation to the pedals for the carrying of the cranks past the dead centre4 ,the angle of the saddle should be studied1 and the adjustment permit of its use as a fulcrum in hill-work1 while admitting of balance-work on a level and of comfort and ease in coasting4 ,it should support the weight when the feet are on the forks1 not merely permit of balancing4 ,in studying this adjustment1 weight1 length of limb1 strength1 and the work to be done should all be taken into consideration4 ,the rule that what is lost in speed is gained in power should comfort the hill climber when1 half-way up a grade1 the bicycle gradually loses speed1 and seems to be stopping1 in spite of all efforts to the contrary4 ,in mounting1 the machine is started by the placing of the weight on the pedal1 and in hill-climbing the weight should be used to force the pedal down and around4 ,the bringing of the pedal into position where the weight will take effect is the true secret of success4 ,follow this by making the weight carry as far as possible1 prolonging its usefulness by pushing the pedal back past the lowest dead centre1 and following and lifting it4 ,but it is useless to prolong the work if the commencement of the stroke is not executed in an effective manner4 ,the up-coming pedal must either be pulled up1 or have all weight removed to permit the power to be fully effective on the down pedal4 ,what is the point where power applied will begin to tell8 ,if the upper dead centre is left to be overcome by the downward stroke of the foot on the pedal1 the foot on the ascending pedal is doing no work1 only kept from doing harm1 held in a cramped position4 ,after carrying the crank past the lower dead centre1 the weight is removed and the angle of the foot changed from pointing the toe down to holding the toe up and dropping the heel4 ,as the foot-rest will follow the sole of the foot1 it is a simple matter to change the pressure from pushing and pulling up to pressing and shoving over4 ,before the crank has arrived at the top of the circle1 say at sixty degrees1 the heel should be lowered1 and the attention directed to pushing the cranks over and past the dead centre4 ,as the top of the circle is reached1 the foot levels1 and prepares to point the toe to make an effective downward thrust4 ,rise from the saddle a little at this point1 to make the weight more effective1 and prepare to carry the pedal back as far as possible4 ,this method leaves very little time for the foot to change its angle4 ,from the toe pointing downward to the toe held up ready to push1 the change from pull to push is abrupt1 and hill-work depends on correct ankle-motion more than anything else4 ,the ankle-motion may be corrected by swaying1 the hands meanwhile being held lightly on the handle-bars ready for emergencies1 but not used for the work of climbing4 ,illustration3 ,,hill-,,climbing--,,pushing ,,crank ,,over4 ,the breathless condition induced by extra work may be remedied2 for the upper chest is forced to expand1 while1 if the arms are held rigid1 a plentiful supply of air for the lungs is not insured4 7,see ,chapter on ,exercises74 ,free combustion is needed for the extra power exerted4 ,the bicycle and its load are lifted1 and a given weight requires a given power to lift it4 ,that power must be supplied by the stored force of the human body1 and must be utilized to the best advantage if the work is to be prolonged4 ,hill-work is not impossible of achievement2 but it requires intelligent work unless one applies mechanical laws intuitively4 ,easy hill-work is delightful2 it is work1 hard work1 but work done without strain4 ,nothing1 on the other hand1 can be more injurious than forced hill-climbing2 the strain on heart and lungs is severe1 particularly for one wearing a tight belt1 or any constrictive clothing about the waist4 ,because a hill looks rough and the surface difficult1 it does not at all follow that it will be bad wheeling4 ,if the tires are not too full1 inequalities of surface are an assistance1 helping to block the wheels1 and preventing them from slipping back1 while the soft tire takes up the stones and bumps1 holding on by them4 ,always look well at your hill on approaching it2 study its inclination1 determine its grade1 and the nature of its surface1 and quickly decide how best to attack it4 ,on mounting the top of a grade1 never hurry or increase speed2 wheel along slowly and easily1 with the mouth shut1 until rested and really ready to start up4 ,if there is a good coast1 don't hurry to it1 but keep working gently until the balance of the respiratory organs is fully restored4 ,then take the coast1 and all the benefits of hard work1 and rest1 and the exhilarating effects of swift motion and free oxidation are fully realized4 ,to work in balance or equilibrium is the aim of hill-work1 and there should not be too abrupt a transition after severe exertion4 ,pedal along at a pace to restore the breathing after hard work1 then change2 never dismount when breathless1 but wheel along slowly4 ,the strain is thus much less than by forcing the body to accommodate itself to a change of position just when a general easing is required1 a general slackening of all the muscles that have been at work4 ,rest always before dismounting long enough at least to restore breathing2 and rather than coast after climbing1 back-pedal gently and slowly if the grade should descend from the top of the ascent4 ,never let a hill get the better of you1 if it is one that you have a chance to attack a second time4 ,set to work and study it4 ,find out the changes of grade1 and prepare for a change in the amount of power at the proper place in the incline4 ,see if the grade is simple1 prolonged1 or compound4 ,if the surface is very smooth1 it will be more difficult4 ,there is a bit of road that ,i remember well1 a country road1 seemingly good enough1 with a little grade perhaps in some places2 but1 one after another1 it dismounted us all4 ,a heavy ,telford pavement was laid1 but there was still a mile and a half of that road that winded the best of us every time4 ,though it was up grade all the way1 experience had taught us that at places we must stop1 and mount again and go on4 ,our machines were heavy1 but this fact did not explain what puzzled us2 for it ought not to be easier to start a heavy wheel up a grade than to continue to wheel up steadily4 ,knowing this bit of road so well1 we were on the lookout to note its effect on others2 and there were always wheels lined up at some part of the road1 and a curious variety of expressions on the countenances of their riders--puzzled defeat on those unacquainted with the road1 and sad determination on those who knew it too well4 ,after a careful study of this grade1 that was long but not steep1 and seemingly not difficult1 we found it made up of a series of differently inclined planes and curves1 the up-curves all against us2 and1 taken from foot to top1 there was a continued increase of pitch1 with certain changes that were all against wheeling2 and moreover a generally increasing pitch for the whole distance1 and four places of change of grade1 each change an increase of pitch and an increased angle of ascent4 ,the smooth surface concealed these difficulties at first1 making the deceptive stretch appear easy and inviting4 ,it was like the inside of a curved line set with scollops4 ,to overcome this most difficult kind of incline1 wheel along at a good pace1 note the increase of grade1 and drop the heel at the beginning of the down stroke1 or rather while the pedal is half way on the up stroke and the foot is prepared to resist the change4 ,take into consideration the fact that an increase of power is necessary2 look where to apply it1 adjust the balance of the body to the work1 and your work will be effective4 ,,chapter ,,ix4 ,position and ,power4 ,the racing wheelman has adopted a position that has received much censure--a position accepted as the one enabling applied power to produce the greatest speed4 ,if this position is analyzed and compared with the erect position1 several interesting features may be noted1 and by comparing the two positions1 important information may be gathered4 ,the bicyclist seated upon the saddle1 not against it1 has little power for work4 ,the thrust is downward2 there can be no forward push or backward thrust1 unless the hands grip the handle-bars and pull against the push1 if the push needed is greater than can be resisted by the weight of the body4 ,the power of the stroke is all in the downward direction2 there can be but little power in the forward thrust2 the most important part of the stroke in hill-climbing is that given by getting behind the pedal and pushing it down4 ,if the saddle be too far forward1 power is again lost in the push and thrust1 and the up-and-down motion must do the work1 and power is lost on the down thrust1 though added in the upward and backward push4 ,we may conclude that a proper position has much to do with the work of bicycling2 that there is more than one correct position1 different positions being adapted to different work4 ,the racing position on the bicycle is the position for speed1 and is the position of the running athlete4 ,it is not adapted to moving at a moderate pace or to being maintained for any length of time4 ,it is the position in which power may be most readily converted into speed2 where the leverage may be applied with the greatest efficiency1 and the greatest amount of work accomplished in the least possible time4 ,the drop position also takes the strain off the upper leg muscles1 and is desirable on that account1 apart from the fact that more power may be exerted from that position4 ,the leg does not straighten out1 and is always ready to give a powerful stroke and maintain an increased or even speed4 ,it is a position of continuous movement2 and if the weight and all the muscles are not directed to propel1 the weight is improperly supported on all fours4 ,the position for speed where the weight is distributed between handle-bar1 saddle1 and pedals is not suitable for road work1 nor can it be maintained for any long period without injurious results4 ,it is the position where power is best converted into speed4 ,for prolonged work a different position is demanded4 ,here speed is not a necessary factor1 but ease of movement and continuous movement are essential4 ,we are not anxious to convert power quickly1 but rather to reserve our powers1 and use them slowly4 ,illustration3 ,,coasting4 ,for pleasure riding and ordinary exercise1 the erect position is the best4 ,the drop position is the racing or running position2 the erect position1 the position of ease4 ,here the saddle question presents itself4 ,the saddle should support the weight while seated1 or1 in the racing position1 hold the weight2 it should not hamper movement1 and should be comfortable for coasting4 ,in moving over the ground1 the relative position for the balance of the cyclist changes according to the grades2 and the seat should be adjusted so as to be adaptable to the different positions required to enable the bicyclist to change the balance for the work of the moment4 ,there is also the position adapted to quick work and exercise4 ,change in adjustment of the application of power varies with the amount of work done by the bicyclist in covering a certain distance4 ,the resistance caused by change of speed and varied wind resistance have also to be taken into the calculation4 ,people of different lengths of leverage must study the different adjustments of the machine to produce the best results for the different kinds of work required of the machine4 ,when a hill is to be surmounted1 the climb should be made without effort1 that is1 effort understood in its technical sense4 ,the position should be such as to permit of work being done by the foot1 and the power should be applied at the right time and place4 ,assistance by a pull on the handle-bars means lessened power on the stroke4 ,effort succeeds effort4 ,the work should be done by the foot1 the pelvis being the fulcrum4 ,the saddle should be the real fulcrum4 ,if the hands are used to do the work by pulling1 the pelvis becomes the only fulcrum1 and the bicycle saddle is not used at all for the application of power4 ,the weight should be made to do as much of the work as possible1 and the added resistance of lever pressure made auxiliary4 ,to obtain leverage for the hands1 it is necessary to use a fulcrum4 ,where is that fulcrum located8 ,each set of muscles pulls on its point of application--the hand on the arm1 the arm on the shoulder1 the shoulder on the thorax1 the thorax on the pelvis4 ,if more power is needed1 it must require effort4 ,in hill-climbing1 effort is a physiological phenomenon associated with great expenditure of force4 ,in making an effort1 exerting force1 the air-passages of the lungs are closed1 the air in them making of them an air-cushion1 as it were1 which acts as a fulcrum for certain extra muscular combinations4 ,this accounts for the feeling of suffocation experienced in severe hill-climbing1 which should never be prolonged4 ,the hill should be climbed with the hands held easily1 not gripping the handles2 and gripping and pulling on the handles1 it should be remembered1 lessen the power for prolonged work4 ,squeezing the handle-bars induces involuntary lung compression1 and pulling on them adds to the strain4 ,lean forward1 if need be1 to balance and maintain the equilibrium1 but do not maintain the centre of gravity by pulling on the handles4 ,illustration3 ,,wheeling ,,one ,,foot ,,over4 ,the fixed position of the arms1 when sitting with spinal column erect1 certainly prevents a full1 free inflation of the lungs2 the shoulders are held fixed1 and between the saddle and the fixed shoulders there is no up and down lung-play4 ,in running1 the forearms and shoulders permit free chest expansion4 ,in the racing position on a bicycle1 the arms and shoulders take the same relative position as in running1 and a full1 free lung expansion is obtained4 ,no rigidity is maintained between shoulders and saddle in the racing drop-position4 ,for speeding and work of that kind1 the position that allows of the greatest flexibility as well as the greatest leverage is the position to be chosen4 ,in travelling and in every-day wheeling1 the position should be one permitting the minimum expenditure of power2 the weight should be supported1 yet the position should be such as to permit the weight to be used as a propelling power4 ,the hands should be held where they are supported and in the position where they can most easily control the wheel under any change of conditions4 ,the saddle should be placed where the foot can act most effectively at all parts or at as many parts as possible of the circle that the pedal describes4 ,the height of the saddle should be calculated to permit of extension of the leg without supporting the weight on the saddle1 which causes compression of the larger veins and arteries4 ,the foot should at all times be fully on the pedal2 that is1 the position should permit of throwing all the weight on to the pedals1 whatever the position of the cranks at the moment4 ,the handle-bar should be adjusted2 also length of arm and relative position2 and the weight1 height1 and curve of bar adapted to suit individual build4 ,length of crank1 gear1 height1 position1 and adjustments of saddle may be used as factors in adjustment of position for ease of movement and prevention of fatigue4 ,each individual has different combinations of lever power1 varying with the lengths of the different parts of different limbs4 ,one may have a long thigh-bone with short lower leg2 another may have just the reverse combination--short thigh-bone and long lower leg4 ,the crank is the lever of application of power2 the gear1 the power in resistance4 ,the gear determines1 in a sense1 how much force is needed2 the length of crank1 combined with the levers of foot and leg1 the proper or most comfortable lever for overcoming that resistance4 ,long-limbed people do well on long cranks1 short-limbed people on short cranks1--the question of length of limb to be determined1 not by actual measurement1 but as to the proportions in weight and length of limbs generally4 ,either too long or too short a crank will produce numbness and fatigue4 ,the leg and foot on the crank as it works form a crank lever movement4 ,the crank of a bicycle should be of such length as to permit of the greatest amount of force being conveyed along the lever movement with the least resistance4 ,the sprocket-wheel is the weight to be moved by the crank2 but the crank is only one of a series of levers4 ,illustration3 ,,wheeling ,,from ,,the ,,peg--,,showing ,,distribution ,,of ,,weight4 ,the knee1 the ankle1 and the pedal-pin must revolve in a circle or a part of a circle2 and each individual must find out the size of circle that is determined by the crank that will best move in adjustment with his individual lever combination4 ,a small circle on the pedal may mean cramped or uncomfortable movement for a long-limbed cyclist2 or a large pedal circle too great distance to traverse on the stroke for a short-limbed cyclist4 ,a stout person working on a high gear1 with a crank adapted to his requirements1 makes fewer strokes of the pedal for distance traversed1 but expends more power at each stroke2 therefore1 when wishing to reduce weight1 he should use a low gear1 working rapidly1 and when wishing to travel easily1 a higher gear4 ,a thin person should be careful to choose such a length of crank and such a gear as will give ease1 so that undue fatigue may be avoided4 ,the position of the saddle should be most carefully considered4 ,it should be just far enough back to permit of getting a forward pressure on the pedal against the crank1 as it were1 at the top of the stroke1 and yet have something to work against in hill-climbing4 ,the tilt or inclination should be studied as well as the build of the saddle2 its height from the pedal should allow the foot1 when on the pedal1 at its most distant point from the saddle1 to press with the ball firmly on the pedal2 and yet the saddle1 when the leg is extended1 should not press so as to compress the large blood vessels of the inside of the leg as it rests against the saddle4 ,the handle-bar adjustment permits of individual preference to a certain extent4 ,the handles should be within easy reach of the hands and below the line of the elbow4 ,if above the level1 power is lost1 and the controlling sense of direction as well4 ,the grip on the handles is instinctive1 and as there is much work for the hands to do1 they should be able to grip easily and quickly1 and to move easily in all directions that the handles take1 retaining their controlling power undiminished4 ,a position with the hands reaching down a little gives more power than a position with the hands reaching up2 and in this position the leverage of the elbows and the power of the shoulder and upper arm may be more effectively exerted4 ,speed work should be done only on a track or a place set apart for that kind of work2 and the most delicate adjustment and balance of weight and pressure should be studied to produce the proper results4 ,scorching1 also1 to be effective1 should be done only on a track1 and the position for the work should be planned most carefully4 ,high speed over rough surfaces on even well-made roads may prove disastrous if the position for the work is not a correct one4 ,serious injury may result to the bicyclist working incorrectly1 with wheel out of adjustment4 ,scorching and racing1 however1 are not properly part of the subject of bicycling1 but are a sport1 and should be separately considered4 ,the adjustment of position may be changed for rest or for any particular purpose2 but for practical purposes it is well to adopt a fixed adjustment of handle-bar and saddle and length of crank and gear1 and adhere to that1 endeavoring to acquire the best form on a machine adapted to suit your individual requirements4 ,a bicycle should be used only by the person for whom it has been adjusted2 for comfort on a bicycle depends on such infinitely small adjustments4 ,never lend a bicycle or a tool1 and never make any change in adjustment by guess4 ,for ordinary use1 the saddle should be a little back of the pedals and not too high1 and the handles within easy reach4 ,this will allow of the balance and adjustment of weight and balance to suit changing conditions of surface and grade4 ,sprinting is often tempting1 and comparatively harmless4 ,scorching is a form of bicycle intoxication1 and the taste once acquired1 the bicyclist craves its excitement1 caring little for the other pleasures of the sport4 ,the scorcher sees little1 hears little1 and is conscious of little but the exhilaration of the moment1 and seems to be imbued with the idea of consuming a certain amount of tissue in a given time4 ,scorching is a form of bicycling hardly to be commended1 and reckless scorching is to be condemned at all times4 ,sprinting consumes a large quantity of material in a limited time1 and though it is well at times to practise speeding1 still the getting up of speed involves considerable expenditure of power and greatly increased momentum1 and should be indulged in only by those who understand the limit of their powers and know what they hold in reserve4 ,the wheel of to-day was evolved on the race-track and for the conditions determined thereon2 and the amateur bicyclist owes much to the professional wheelman4 ,improvements in construction1 in detail1 and in adaptability have reached a certain limit1 a limit of possibilities in certain directions4 ,it behooves us now to accept the machine and to adapt ourselves to its requirements and to avail ourselves of all that it offers4 ,the elasticity of the machine1 the resiliency of the tire1 rigidity of frame1 position1 vibration1 and concussion should be next considered4 ,on a bicycle fitted with a rigid saddle and with hard tires1 well blown up1 the vibration that is conveyed through the entire machine is very perceptible1 even on a smooth wheeling surface4 ,over uneven country1 ,belgian blocks1 or other rough or corrugated surfaces1 the vibration produces concussion2 and if too erect and rigid a position is maintained1 fatigue1 if nothing worse1 is sure to result4 ,on a horse the position1 while erect1 is studied to lessen the concussion2 the weight is carried well under to avoid it4 ,the flexible curve of the spine is there1 though not perceptible1 as the body is held erect and in balance4 ,the lower part of the body becomes part of the saddle1 the upper body flexible from above the hips4 ,the concussion comes as each of the horse's feet is placed on the ground2 while concussion on the bicycle is produced by the change caused by each inequality of surface4 ,the pneumatic tire lessens this to a degree1 if not blown up too hard2 for inequalities sink into the yielding surface that would make a wheel with a hard tire bump4 ,the frame should be stiff to hold its direction1 and the saddle elastic enough to interrupt the vibration of the frame4 ,the position on the saddle should be studied to prevent tension or compression of any of the joints1 large or small2 and the spine should be easily erect1 not stiff and rigid1 but flexible4 ,the sense of balance and the adjustment required to balance the bicycle tends to keep the body flexible4 ,the danger to be avoided is concussion induced by a rigid position--a position where1 the bones being held closely against each other by tense muscles1 shock is easily conveyed over the entire body4 ,let the weight come well on the saddle1 in such a position that it can be shifted to the pedals at will2 and let the whole trunk be flexible1 elastically flexible1 equally in all directions4 ,then the bicycle may be controlled almost unconsciously and from the saddle1 the hands being used only in an auxiliary manner4 ,the front wheel may be steered and controlled from the saddle by means of the power over the front wheel gained by the bicycle frame construction4 ,bicycling can be thoroughly enjoyed only when the machinery ceases to require constant and concentrated attention4 ,the rhythmical movements of a bicyclist at ease1 master of the conditions1 comes only with confidence and the persistent practice which causes all the muscles to move easily together in uninterrupted combinations1 and the bicycle no longer to require conscious attention4 ,,chapter ,x4 ,difficulties to ,overcome4 ,there is the mounting difficulty and the steering difficulty and the pedaling difficulty2 and then there is the general difficulty of doing all these things together4 ,the first thing to do after learning the theory of starting and stopping the machine is to make it go4 ,no matter what happens1 keep it going1 the faster the better1 until a taste is acquired for the pastime2 until the going-forward-forever idea seems to have taken possession of you4 ,then you want to try it again1 but mounting seems more difficult than ever4 ,the machine will not do anything it ought to do2 it bucks and kicks and stops and spills and slips1 and will not stand still1 or even move on4 ,you know how to mount1 or think you know2 but that knowledge does not seem to aid materially in overcoming the tendencies of the machine4 ,now be sure that you do know what to do4 ,the first thing to know is that the weight placed on the pedal starts the machine2 that the foot on the ground will hold the machine1 and keep it from starting2 that the machine when in motion will move without falling1 and when at rest will not stand still unless held up4 ,illustration3 ,,preparing ,,to ,,mount--,,showing ,,inclination4 ,then determine the amount of inclination the bicycle requires to balance against your weight4 ,the weight placed on the pedal pulls the machine up to a vertical plane2 and the inclination to be calculated for soon becomes an accepted quantity4 ,in gripping the handles and inclining the machine1 the balance that is felt will set you up on your wheel4 ,in mounting1 the beginner is apt to stand too far behind the mounting pedal4 ,the position should be beside it1 and the mounting foot be placed over the frame and on the pedal4 ,then1 raising the weight by means of the handles1 step off the ground1 letting the pedal take the weight4 ,do not give any push from the foot on the ground1 but step off the ground as you step on the pedal4 ,stepping on the pedal sets the machine in motion1 and rights it at the same time4 ,there is nothing now to do but to let the pedal lower you to the saddle1 and hold the other foot up until the other pedal comes around and carries the foot forward4 ,in mounting1 the weight should be distributed between the handles and the pedal until seated on the saddle4 ,to practise mounting1 take the wheel1 and start on a very slight down grade4 ,never attempt to practise mounting against a grade1 no matter how slight the inclination4 ,a careful instructor teaches mounting and dismounting thoroughly2 but if a poor method has been acquired1 practise alone until you have gained confidence and perhaps a few bruises4 ,the only way to succeed is to try and try again4 ,practise fifteen minutes at a time1 for it is fatiguing work2 and do not become discouraged4 ,with sufficient practice1 the difficulty vanishes4 ,never practise mounting when tired2 for you should be alert1 and all your muscles responsive4 ,but persist2 practise first mounting1 and then dismounting2 and then rest by walking the machine about to learn its balance4 ,any one who rides or drives1 or rows or sails1 knows something of the art of steering1--pulling or pushing on one side or the other to change direction1--and on mounting a bicycle has only to apply knowledge already acquired4 ,in steering a bicycle1 look directly over the centre of the handle-bars in the direction you wish to take1 and push or pull the wheel until the centre of the bars coincides with your objective point4 ,this is really what is done2 but the machine is so delicately sensitive that you change its direction almost without knowing that you are doing so4 ,you go where you look2 the hands follow the eye2 and the art of steering a bicycle resolves itself into knowing where you want to go1 and looking in that direction as you move4 ,in steering or mounting1 always have an objective point4 ,look up the road well ahead1 and keep the general direction4 ,a difficulty early experienced is uncertain steering and an uncertain sense of direction4 ,when you are out for practice1 look well ahead towards the end of your road over the handles4 ,novices run into anything they look at1 and must concentrate their attention1 therefore1 on the direction the bicycle ought to take4 ,illustration3 ,,incorrect ,,mounting ,,position4 ,the weight inclined from side to side steers the bicycle2 pressure on either pedal steers it as well4 ,correct and effective pedaling is a very difficult attainment1 to be acquired only with care and practice4 ,first make the bicycle go1 then study how you do it1 and improve your method4 ,keep in mind the points that are required for correct pedaling4 ,the early difficulty experienced is to keep the knees and ankles in proper line4 ,turning the knees in and the heels out will prevent the ankle-bones from striking1 a difficulty that many experience4 ,the reason that mounting is so difficult for some is because the foot is placed incorrectly on the pedal1 with the toe pointing out4 ,the foot should be parallel with the frame of the bicycle1 and the knee turned in2 or else1 when the weight is raised1 the ankle will strike1 and the discomfort of the blow will render the attempt to mount unsuccessful4 ,the position seems awkward until correctly acquired2 but the awkwardness is due usually to lack of confidence to come close to the machine and to taking a position too far back of the mounting pedal4 ,the change of direction on mounting often proves confusing1 and the bicycle must be steadied1 and made to keep its direction at the same time4 ,choose your direction1 and assure yourself of plenty of room to work in1 away from trees or stones or other objects that might prove a source of danger in case of collision4 ,then mount and go4 ,keep these two ideas well in mind4 ,if you are uncomfortable1 stop and get off2 don't try to adjust anything while in motion4 ,when you get on1 go4 ,you cannot get on and keep still4 ,do not get on unless you are ready to go2 keep going when you are on2 and the mounting difficulty vanishes4 ,steer steadily1 and be quick without haste4 ,a hurried change of direction can only be made without danger of a spill by an expert1 and then only in an emergency or for track-work4 ,bicycling requires precision1 and haste or hurry is out of place1 while quick and alert movement is required4 ,take the bicycle out and do as much as you can with it4 ,part of the fun is conquering difficulties1 and each difficulty overcome is an achievement4 ,another difficulty experienced is striking the saddle in mounting4 ,this is usually due to springing from the ground to the saddle1 or attempting to do so1 instead of stepping on the mounting pedal1 and supporting and holding the weight on the handle-bars4 ,of course1 if the weight is not supported on the machine1 and the machine is started1 it cannot carry the weight forward4 ,the saddle will strike1 and push you over4 ,mount by means of the handle-bars2 let them take you2 shift the weight up by them on to the pedal4 ,then lower the weight to the saddle1 step clear of the ground1 and lean a little over the bars if necessary to clear the saddle4 ,in mounting a bicycle1 you mount up on the pedal1 and settle from that down to the saddle4 ,if the pedal strikes the other foot1 it is because the foot is not held up4 ,do not be in dread of that other foot2 hold it well up out of the way1 using the mounting foot to make the machine go4 ,illustration3 ,,mounting--,,preparatory ,,position4 ,too great inclination of the machine will spoil the mount1 and insufficient inclination will have the same effect4 ,the front wheel must be held in line with the frame1 and any wrong tendency corrected by the handle-bars after the weight is raised on the pedal1 and the machine is upright4 ,many good tires are ruined by ineffectual efforts to mount4 ,the machine is pulled against the tire1 and it is hard to understand why the tires are not torn off or ripped to pieces4 ,the light wheels are not made to stand such usage2 and it is a mistake to subject a new wheel to it4 ,the rubber is pulled sideways 7a proper way to pull a tire off71 and the novice is fortunate if the bicycle is not all pulled out of true by being strained in directions not calculated to resist wear and strain4 ,a twenty-pound wheel may be pulled out of true and so bent and untwisted by ineffectual mounting efforts that it cannot be restored without labor that amounts to practically rebuilding the bicycle4 ,in turning a bicycle1 always lean in the direction the machine is inclined4 ,lean in the direction you want to go1 and very little correction will be needed from the handle-bars4 ,in turning1 lean with the wheel1 and meet it with the handle-bars4 ,meeting the machine is done continually1 and is done by swinging the front wheel to meet the inclination of the bicycle on whichever side it has a tendency to fall4 ,bringing up is done by pulling the wheel around a little further quickly1 and very quickly back again4 ,the frame is lifted by the front wheel4 ,this is explained in the principles of bicycle construction4 ,when an obstacle1 as a car track or rut in the road1 is met1 the obstacle must be crossed squarely2 or if obliged to make a different angle1 the angle should be met with the front wheel at the instant of contact1 and a proper balance maintained with the pedals4 ,to stop and stand still1 pedal slowly until the machine is almost ready to stop2 then 8catch the pedals half way10 that is1 stand on them1 rising from the saddle1 having the pedals at equal heights1 and alternate the pressure4 ,hold the saddle firmly1 pressing against both sides to feel the balance and to hold the balance by means of the saddle between the pedals with the weight on the feet4 ,as you catch the pedals1 give the front wheel a sudden twist towards the back pedal1 which will prevent the bicycle from falling on that side2 then control the balance by the weight on the other pedal1 and if necessary restore balance by a quick twist of the front wheel4 ,the best way to practise this is to stop near a smooth wall1 and use that to assist to steady the balance4 ,two people can stop and stand still in this way1 crossing hands as in skating1 gripping the inner handles of the bicycles1 and stopping by holding the pedals and controlling the front wheels by the handles1 using the outer hand4 ,this makes a very pretty and effective pause4 ,illustration3 ,,correct ,,mounting ,,position4 ,numbness undoubtedly comes from interrupted circulation1 caused either by the clothing or the method of working4 ,numbness of the hands and fingers may be traced generally to tight clothing1 and after all surface pressure is removed may safely be attributed to a too tight gripping of the handles4 ,a large soft glove often aids to prevent numbness of the fingers2 if gloves are not worn1 the hand is apt to grasp too closely4 ,change of position1 too1 will tend to counteract numbness4 ,it is not well to work too long at a time without a rest1 if there is any tendency of this kind4 ,walk up hill or on the level to restore the circulation4 ,numbness of the foot can be caused by surface pressure1 the shoes1 or the saddle4 ,sitting too close to the saddle while working1 instead of carrying the weight on the pedals1 is apt to produce numbness of the feet4 ,garters or belts will have the same effect1 and must be watched and regulated4 ,a shoe adapted for walking is not at all suitable for serious bicycle exercise2 the strains and pressure all come in the wrong places1 and confine and numb the feet4 ,free ankle movement is imperative1 and freedom for the lower muscles of the calf of the leg2 room for the feet1 and especially for the toes to spread and to assist in pressing the pedal4 ,the sole of the shoe should be stiff1 to prevent bruises from the pedals or from irregularities on the ground4 ,concussion and a consequent vibratory movement of the bicycle are impossible to avoid1 but they need not affect the wheeler injuriously4 ,numbness is sometimes due to a condition of the nerves of the parts affected by the vibratory movement4 ,to prevent this condition of affairs1 never wheel with the weight on the hands1 nor grip the handles of the handle-bars too tight4 ,rest the hands lightly on the handles1 and be prepared to squeeze hard when necessary4 ,study the best position and most convenient height for the hands when the machine is best under control1 and the jar and vibration are not perceived4 ,all joints of wrist1 elbow1 and shoulder should transmit any motion1 not locate it1 by being fixed or rigid at any point4 ,the tire of the wheel should not be hard1 nor should the saddle be fitted with springs2 and it should be so placed as to allow the rider to rise easily on the pedals for rough wheeling4 ,these rules being observed1 serious danger from this cause need not be apprehended4 ,wheeling over cobble-stone pavement or over good ,belgian blocks produces a marked vibration in the bicycle4 ,it would be a satisfactory test for adjustment of position to be able to wheel over such a surface with comfort1 feeling the vibration of the bicycle hardly at all4 ,the difficulty experienced in wheeling over rough surface is caused by lack of confidence and by general stiffness of all the muscles1 which causes the full force of the vibration to be felt4 ,in carrying the weight on the pedals1 the vibration is less intensely felt4 ,to grip the handles for rough surface riding is almost involuntary1 but it is accompanied by acute discomfort from vibration4 ,pedal work only will meet this difficulty4 ,there are different methods of mounting4 ,the pedal mount is usually the one first attempted on a drop-frame bicycle2 the mount over the wheel on a diamond-frame4 ,illustration3 ,,mounting--,,second ,,position4 ,the diamond-frame mount from the peg is made in this way3 ,standing directly behind the machine1 the handles of the handle-bars are grasped firmly4 ,one foot is placed on the peg1 and the wheel inclined away from that foot2 the foot on the ground gives a shove1 and the bicycle moves off1 carrying the weight on the peg2 and the other foot swings forward to catch the pedal1 which was a little behind the top of the circle on starting4 ,the drop-frame has several rather pretty pedal mounts and vaults4 ,in one1 the bars are held1 and the machine is started4 ,watch the rhythm of the pedal1 and as it passes the top of the stroke1 incline the machine away from you1 place the other foot on the pedal1 swing the foot next the machine over in front1 and catch the other pedal as it rises2 then sit easily on the saddle4 ,the vault is made after starting the machine1 running or hurrying along1 and springing from the ground to the saddle1 using the handles to help4 ,the pedals are found after being seated on the saddle2 and the machine moves with the momentum given it in running before rising in the vault4 ,there is a mount from the pedal on the same side on which you are standing4 ,start the bicycle1 and keep along with it1 watching the pedals4 ,as the pedal near you comes up and over the top of the curve1 step on it with the outside foot1 inclining the machine well away from you2 at the same time the weight will carry the pedal around with you1 and as it rises1 the other pedal and the saddle can be found4 ,the same mount may be made without starting the machine4 ,hold the machine inclined from you2 place the outside foot against the pedal until it is at its furthest point away from you2 hold the bicycle firmly1 and step on1 swinging the foot off the ground around to the other pedal1 in front of the saddle1 not behind it4 ,on the diamond-frame1 the same mount is made1 only the foot is swung behind the saddle1 not in front of it1 as is possible on the drop-frame machine4 ,to stop the bicycle with another person on it1 grasp the handle-bars1 and take hold of the shoulder of the person propelling the bicycle1 if necessary4 ,illustration3 ,,dismounting ,,over ,,the ,,wheel4 ,,chapter ,,xi4 ,dress4 ,the matter of dress for bicycling is quite important from the hygienic standpoint4 ,clothing should be most carefully selected1 with the view to an equal distribution of weight and an even thickness of material2 it should have no constricting1 no tight bands anywhere1 but should permit of absolute freedom of movement1 and be warm enough to prevent chilling through too great radiation of heat1 yet porous enough to allow of free evaporation4 ,all seasons of the year permit of cycling2 the bicyclist therefore has opportunity for much variety in dress4 ,the essentials are knickerbockers1 shirt-waist1 stockings1 shoes1 gaiters1 sweater1 coat1 no skirt1 or skirt with length decided by individual preference1 hat and gloves4 ,the knickerbockers should be very carefully cut2 smooth and tight just over the top of the hips1 and fitting easily below2 not fulled or gathered2 full at the knees1 and boxed or finished with a band and button and button-hole2 nothing elastic on any account4 ,the stockings should be worn folded on the boxed part of the knickerbockers1 below the knees1 and rolled down and held by the band of the knickerbockers1 being fastened below4 ,this arrangement does away with garters1 which compress surface circulation1 or pull if attached at the waist1 causing pressure where they pull1 and are most objectionable for many reasons4 ,the knickerbockers should be made of cloth or woollen material4 ,the shirt-waist should have wristbands or sleeves finished to open a little way1 and button2 the neck finished with a band1 with a detachable collar of the same material4 ,the body of the waist should be shaped to the figure at the sides and back1 gathered slightly in the front1 and finished at the waist-line without a band1 and may be of the same material as the rest of the suit4 ,the knickerbockers should button to this waist1 the places for the buttons being reinforced4 ,the stockings should preferably be of wool1 and of a seasonable weight4 ,the combination of knickerbockers1 shirt-waist1 and stockings forms the essential part of a cycling costume4 ,a union under-garment may be worn and the knickerbocker suit2 over this a coat and a skirt if desired1 with a sweater for an extra wrap4 ,bicycling is warm work1 and the clothing should always be rather light in weight4 ,for touring it must all be carried on the wheel1 and yet be heavy enough for comfort when not exercising1 and not too heavy for work1 and should1 moreover1 allow of adjustment for changes in temperature or for any required change in distribution4 ,to this end1 all the clothing should be of one color or of colors that look well together4 ,the knickerbockers1 waist1 and skirt should match2 then if the coat is removed1 the costume looks complete4 ,an outfit might consist of two suits complete1 of different weights2 sweaters of different weights2 wool stockings1 heavy and light1 that will roll below the knee without being either bulky or tight4 ,illustration3 ,,mounting ,,over ,,the ,,wheel ,,from ,,peg4 ,the knickerbockers are better fastened with a button1 the button being in just the right place1 than with a strap and buckle1 which is liable to be pulled too tight at times4 ,the shoes should be low1 made of thin leather1 laced well down toward the toe1 with light uppers1 and soles stiff yet flexible1 and made with grooves to take the pedals and prevent slipping4 ,blocks or cleats on the soles to fit the pedals are sometimes preferred1 but are hardly so good for general work4 ,the gaiters may be made of almost any suitable material1 leather1 canvas1 or woollen1 to match or contrast with the rest of the costume4 ,they should fit easily around the ankle and over the instep1 and should never1 on any account1 extend more than half way to the knee4 ,the muscles of the calf of the leg must have room to work2 and gaiters badly cut1 or too tight or too long1 would impede circulation and restrict muscular action4 ,the sweater should come well up around the neck1 and pull down easily below the saddle2 it is better too long than not long enough to cover the large muscular masses that have been at work1 and may be turned up if in the way4 ,it should slip on easily1 and be soft and woolly1 and not so cumbersome that the coat cannot slip on over it and be buttoned up to the throat4 ,the coat should be cut long-waisted1 and easy across the shoulders1 single-breasted1 and made to button close to the throat2 the collar to roll and remain open1 but so cut that it may be easily turned up to the ears4 ,the sleeves should be finished with two buttons and button-holes1 so that they may be turned up a little if desired4 ,there are occasions when a covert coat made of close cloth may be useful1 when out in very cold weather or standing in the wind without shelter2 but it cannot be generally recommended4 ,pockets in any part of the dress should be made of woollen material4 ,cotton retains moisture1 and a cotton pocket or a pocket lined with cotton may become damp and clammy and cold1 acting almost like a damp compress4 ,the fewer pockets1 the better2 but a number are often found convenient4 ,everything if possible should be carried on the wheel1 not in the pockets4 ,metal condenses moisture and interrupts evaporation4 ,as the skirt should always open at the side1 and fasten with several buttons1 a convenient pocket may be placed in the placket-hole2 a watch-pocket in the skirt is a good thing1 but the watch is better carried on the wheel2 and a pocket should be set aside for matches1 where they may always be found quickly4 ,collars and cuffs of linen or of celluloid1 of silk or of the same material as the suit1 may be used for touring2 but soft neckwear should be worn if possible4 ,if a neck-muffler is worn1 it should be of cashmere1 not of silk4 ,neatness is most important4 ,each article of dress should be carefully adjusted and fastened4 ,never use pins or put things carelessly together1 hoping they will stay1 but be sure that every article of dress fits and is securely fastened1 and it will never need a thought after it is in place4 ,in warm weather gloves with one button are most comfortable2 for cooler weather1 four buttons1 fastened about the wrists1 keep the hands warm4 ,the adjustment of the covering of wrists and ankles makes the greatest difference in comfort in wheeling4 ,in cold weather1 hands and feet should be kept warm2 in hot weather1 it is comfortable to work with the cuffs turned back and wearing low shoes without gaiters4 ,indeed1 in hot weather it is important not to encase the ankles in heavy boots or leggings1 as these would ensure overheating4 ,the outfit may be completed with a number of hats--a light straw for summer1 a soft felt for touring1 and a small and becoming hat for the park4 ,the hat should be chosen to stay on easily1 and not pinned1 but fastened under the hair with elastic1 and the hair dressed to stand any amount of blowing about4 ,the skirt should not reach more than half way below the knee1 and the hem and all seams should be finished on the outside2 then there will be nothing to catch or pull4 ,the width around the bottom may be a matter of choice1 but the skirt need not fall behind the pedal when furthest back1 and should be cut full enough in the front to permit the knees to work easily4 ,the top of the skirt should take the place of a waistband1 following the curves of the figure1 made to flare at the top of the waist1 and fitted snugly over the hips and hanging from them4 ,it may be worn with or without a belt4 ,the coat should be long enough to touch the saddle or hang an inch or two below it1 to protect all the vital organs and as much of the working masses of muscle as possible4 ,the sweater may be worn for coolness or warmth4 ,as an outside garment1 it allows the air to pass through its mesh easily2 worn under another garment1 it is very warm1 retaining the heat4 ,the color of a bicycle suit may be chosen for the kind of work to be done2 its texture may be decided suitable if1 a piece being held over the mouth1 it is possible to inhale and exhale through it easily4 ,the cloth should be firm enough to stand wear and rough usage2 smooth enough to shed dust easily2 and of a quality that will stand being wet without shrinking1 and will turn the rain if caught in a shower4 ,it should be firm1 elastic1 soft2 have what is known as substance2 be very light in weight and yet not clinging2 and possessing all these qualities1 the ideal cloth for bicycling should not be so expensive that it cannot be renewed easily4 ,simplicity in detail for any garment made to work in is always commendable1 and a bicycle dress must be simple to be suitable4 ,a corset1 if one is worn1 should not extend below the waist-line1 and should have elastic side-lacing4 ,to choose what to wear when the weather is changeable is rather difficult2 and the bicyclist starting early in the morning for an all-day outing must expect changes of temperature during the day4 ,starting1 the coat may be folded on the handles1 and the sweater worn2 later1 as the sun grows warmer1 the sweater may be removed2 at the noonday halt1 the coat may be donned while lunching1 as it usually seems chilly coming under cover2 later in the afternoon the sweater is again of use2 and before the evening is advanced1 the coat worn over the sweater often proves acceptable4 ,for touring1 only an extra change of underwear1 with a change of neckwear1 is needed to carry on the wheel4 ,to look well at all times when bicycling1 it is necessary to remember the possible conditions that may be encountered1 and to wear no garment that may prove incongruous4 ,when touring1 of course1 fresh toilettes may be indulged in at the expense of extra luggage4 ,the chief pleasure of bicycling is independence and the joy of being free2 yet a long trip without access to the conveniences and even the luxuries of civilization1 should not be attempted4 ,a trunk may be sent home as soon as it has been proved unnecessary1 or sent ahead and met at intervals2 but its non-arrival should never be allowed to disconcert the traveller4 ,it is an accepted fact that bicycling cannot be properly enjoyed unless the clothing is suitable4 ,of course1 one can take a drop-frame bicycle1 mount1 and wheel slowly for a short distance1 barring inconveniences1 in ordinary dress2 so can one swim a little if unexpectedly placed in the water4 ,bicycling requires the same freedom of movement that swimming does1 and the dress must not hamper or hinder4 ,,chapter ,,xii4 ,watch and ,cyclometer4 ,suitably attired1 with a bicycle of the latest model and most perfect construction1 it matters little whether the residence be in town or country1 for the largest city is soon left behind4 ,the country1 when the highway ceases to be passable1 is easily traversable on the foot-trodden pathway beside it4 ,wherever the foot has trodden1 the wheel may follow1 if the path be well defined2 and as the wheel can be carried easily1 there is no limit but the limit of endurance in crossing country that cannot be wheeled over4 ,but in order to cover distance without dismounting and within a time limit1 where the speed attained is an element to be considered1 good roads should be chosen4 ,the bicycle multiplies our power of advancing by five4 ,one who can walk three miles in an hour can wheel fifteen miles on a bicycle1 given all the conditions necessary to attain that speed for the period of an hour4 ,the wonderful speed of the running and sprinting athlete is again multiplied by five1 for a short time1 in the contests where wheeling records are made4 ,while increasing the distance travelled the bicycle has greatly decreased the time limit4 ,a person travelling afoot at the rate of three miles an hour 7the average walking gait7 covers a mile in twenty minutes1 and at the end of an hour is not more than three miles from the starting point4 ,on a bicycle a mile is covered usually in four minutes or less4 ,the average distance1 owing to the varied resistance met1 is not usually so great2 and more power may be expended in the hour than is required to walk three miles in the same length of time4 ,six miles may be the record for an hour on a wheel1 and yet the amount of work done be very great4 ,until the position is adjusted to suit individual requirements1 the output of power to accomplish a certain distance1 even though it be a short one1 is necessarily great4 ,considerable study is necessary to work out the perfect individual adjustment of the bicycle1 weight of clothing1 and amount of practice requisite to easy1 rhythmical movement2 but that once attained1 the world lies before you4 ,bicycling trains and quickens the perceptions2 it cultivates and develops courage1 judgment1 and discrimination as well as prompt decision and quick and accurate sight4 ,the hand follows the eye without effort2 and the machine responds to each impression received without conscious expenditure of power4 ,to cyclists is due the keen public interest recently aroused in good roadways and in legislation to effect their construction1 and the consequent improvement in public highways4 ,for years the amateur cyclists of the country labored to this end in the interest of the sport1 the ,league of ,american ,wheelmen intelligently preparing the minds of the public on the subject4 ,to be accomplished as a bicyclist means something more than knowing how to wheel a bicycle and to be able to get about on it4 ,it is necessary besides to keep informed of the laws and ordinances relating to bicycles and to vehicles in general2 to possess a complete and accurate knowledge of the wheel as a machine2 to be able to do for it all that can be done one's self or to direct another who has not this knowledge2 to know the country travelled1 know distance and direction2 the use of map and compass1 and how to travel without them1 finding the direction by sun or stars1 or even1 if need be1 without either2 to understand the effect of time and season on the face of nature and to cultivate the senses of the woods4 ,if1 while touring with a party1 you find that you have missed the way in a strange country and that something about the bicycle has given out1 calm decision is requisite4 ,estimate your resources1 and keep quiet4 ,do not try to find your party2 let them find you4 ,study your wheel-tracks2 if off the line of travel1 follow them carefully to where they join the tracks of your companions4 ,then wait until some one comes for you4 ,rest or be busy about your wheel4 ,do what you can easily1 not to be tired and worn out when your companions find you4 ,it is seldom wise to try and walk after the party2 the only object in moving would be to keep warm1 for a chill must be avoided4 ,there is a wonderful difference in the distances covered under different conditions4 ,winds1 adverse or favorable1 affect the bicyclist more than anything else4 ,an unfavorable wind is one directly ahead or that can be felt on either cheek while advancing4 ,a favorable wind is one that blows on the back1 or cannot be felt on either cheek while looking ahead4 ,a wind blowing directly at right angles with the direction of the wheel is a favorable wind2 you unconsciously balance against it1 and the bicycle glides forward under pressure as a boat does with the sail trimmed in4 ,when starting out1 note the weather conditions2 what the prevailing winds are and what the changes are likely to be during the time you expect to be on your bicycle4 ,if the wind is west or northwest1 do not take that direction for the run out1 unless the trip is to be a short one4 ,always try to have the wind with you1 both going and returning4 ,learn the peculiarities of the weather and study the government weather reports2 they are of quite as much assistance to the bicyclist as to the mariner who knows how to use them2 for winds frequently change their direction1 and the indications for such changes should be sought and studied4 ,if a short trip is planned1 as the wind is not likely to change during the run1 start out against the wind2 that is1 plan to do the hardest work first1 and let the wind help on the return4 ,avoid hard work whenever possible4 ,hill-climbing against the wind is the hardest kind of work2 with the wind to assist1 even quite steep hills may often be coasted part of the way up1 and all easy grades taken with the feet off the pedals4 ,coasting should be indulged in with discretion1 or the bicycle may run away with you4 ,check speed at the first indication that the wheel is escaping control by applying the brake and catching the pedal1 back pedaling at the same time4 ,on a public road1 the bicycle should never be beyond control4 ,to thoroughly enjoy an outing1 road1 direction1 and atmospheric conditions should be studied4 ,if you are out for several hours' spin in chilly weather1 there is little pleasure to be had in exploring2 but in weather when the temperature permits of stops without danger to health1 frequent dismounts and short-distance trips across country are enjoyable4 ,one of the pleasures of bicyclists is the good fellowship existing between them1 which is rarely disturbed4 ,on the bicycle conversation is interrupted by long pauses1 by intervals of silence1 when each rider is alone1 with opportunity for reflection and mental expansion4 ,on long trips note first the general direction of the road1 the wind1 and the sun2 try to have the wind with you and the sun behind you for the better part of the day4 ,be able to change your plans quickly to meet changed conditions1 and have a reserve of grit to fall back on if things do not go quite to your liking4 ,dressed for bicycling1 it matters little whether it rains or shines2 but wind1 sand1 and stones make impossible conditions for the bicyclist4 ,when wind has reached a certain velocity1 wheeling becomes unsafe4 ,mud causes the wheels to slip and prevents them from turning2 sand does the same4 ,a surface offering little or no resistance is impossible4 ,stones are dangerously liable to cause spills1 while ruts and bumps twist the bicycle and are apt to throw the rider4 ,in the autumn months1 when the sun sets early1 a lantern should be provided even when it seems an absurdly unnecessary encumbrance2 for a town or village where the ordinances are strict may lie on the route1 and the unlucky bicyclist without a light must go afoot4 ,of course1 speeding cannot be attempted with the bicycle encumbered2 but with all the extras1 a good average speed may be maintained4 ,the bicyclist wishing for freedom from all encumbrance is apt to forget unpleasant possibilities4 ,a punctured tire thirty miles from anything is such a possibility2 so1 though the tool-kit weighs something1 it can never prudently be dispensed with4 ,have the bicycle all ready1 and start free from care and with a quiet mind1 after a last careful and reassuring inspection of the machine4 ,starting from a town with a perfectly running machine1 the attention is first directed to getting into the country easily1 either by train or by wheeling4 ,in wheeling1 streets free from traffic and with the best possible surfaces should be chosen4 ,country wheeling is often good when city work is impossible4 ,the dangers of city wheeling are traffic1 car tracks1 and mud4 ,city mud is usually of a greasy nature1 very difficult to wheel over4 ,even pedaling is very necessary1 and uneven pressure on the pedals means a side spill4 ,in wheeling over mud1 never attempt to control the machine by the front wheel2 it must be controlled by the pedals4 ,if too much pressure is used1 there is nothing left but to step off4 ,do not try to recover by means of the front wheel2 the attempt will be useless1 and a fall can be avoided only by stepping off4 ,keep the front wheel steady1 and rely on the weight-carrying wheel to take you clear of the mud4 ,keep a sharp lookout1 and travel slowly4 ,any one can make a bicycle go4 ,get out of town1 and then be ready to pedal up to time on the first clear stretch of good road4 ,make time1 but never hurry4 ,never work hard over hill-work or try to go fast against the wind4 ,when using side-paths1 always recollect they may be protected by local ordinances4 ,keep posted on the law of the road1 taking to the highway on approaching towns and villages4 ,if the work is hard1 travel slowly1 and look ahead4 ,two good rules are--,to travel fast1 look well ahead2 and watch the ground when there is a hard bit of road to pass over4 ,a good stiff pull against the wind can be accomplished easily1 really easily1 if you take your time1 giving full attention to pedaling1 and keeping the eyes a short distance ahead of the wheel4 ,it is much easier to rest on the bicycle by slowing than to dismount4 ,in cold weather1 never stop without seeking shelter1 at least the lee of bank or wall2 and keep away from a fire1 as it renders one liable to take cold4 ,nothing is so dangerous in frosty weather as a pause of even a few minutes dismounted4 ,in warm weather1 it is permissible to drink water when wheeling2 but it should be remembered that the bicyclist passes through all sorts of country1 and the water may sometimes be anything but drinkable from a sanitary point of view1 even causing typhoid and other fevers4 ,water that has been boiled is unpalatable1 but it is safe2 boiled and cooled1 it may be rendered more palatable by shaking it or pouring it from one pitcher to another to mix air with it4 ,ice in water is another source of danger4 ,the water1 after being boiled or filtered1 should be placed in bottles with absorbent cotton for stoppers1 and cooled by being placed on ice4 ,muddy water may be cleansed with a piece of alum4 ,if a lump of alum is stirred about for a second or two in a pail or pitcher of muddy water1 and then the water allowed to settle1 it will be found fit to boil for drinking4 ,bottled waters are safest when the country is unknown or when there is doubt as to the purity of the local supply2 but failing these1 the precautions mentioned will ensure safety4 ,never prolong bicycle exercise without eating1 and never work after a hearty meal2 but the consumption of a couple of sandwiches at noon cannot be regarded as a serious meal2 and it is often better to push on after a short halt1 moving slowly1 than to sit around on rocks or stumps to wait for a proper digestive period to elapse4 ,it is well to have a small reserve supply of food1 such as chocolate or beef tablets1 to tide one over a prolonged period between meals4 ,milk and bread and cheese are good to take as an extra meal4 ,never work hungry if it can be avoided2 the bicycle will lag1 and the cyclist wonder at being weary4 ,keep up the food supply by all means1 for fatigue sets in quickly with the desire for food1 and the system quickly becomes enfeebled4 ,the cyclometer registers each revolution of the wheel1 and by an ingenious mechanism the dial gives the record in miles4 ,there is a great temptation to roll up miles1 that the cyclometer may make a good showing2 indeed1 this striving after mileage often becomes a ruling passion1 interfering with the real pleasures of the sport4 ,the pedestrian1 accustomed to noting distances1 can usually judge the rate or pace travelled1 and decide very accurately upon the distance traversed1 with only the time as a guide2 for the pace1 so many miles an hour1 multiplied by the number of hours1 gives the distance4 ,on the bicycle the pace is very easily estimated in a similar manner4 ,count the strokes per minute as each knee rises1 divide that by two1 and you have the number of revolutions of the crank4 ,the gear gives the diameter of the wheel larger than the one on the bicycle2 sixty-four gear1 for instance1 means that the crank revolution covers a distance equal to a wheel with a diameter of sixty-four inches4 ,the circumference of a wheel is three times its diameter2 and #fd multiplied by #c equals #aib inches measured on the ground for one revolution of the crank4 ,multiply the distance measured on the ground by the crank revolution by the number of strokes made per minute1 divide by twelve to give the number of feet the crank has covered in one revolution1 and you have the distance in feet travelled per minute4 ,to find the rate of miles per hour1 multiply that result by #fj to find the number of feet travelled per hour1 and divide the result by #ebhj1 the number of feet in a mile4 ,the watch should have a second hand for bicycle work4 ,the cyclometer taken for five minutes1 then multiplied by twelve1 gives the rate of mileage per hour1 a very convenient way of ascertaining the rate of speed per hour4 ,it is well to know the rhythm of stroke of a certain rate per hour1 for it is often of assistance in determining distance1 and will frequently prevent a hurry when train connections are to be made1 by assuring you that you are easily travelling a pace that will take you to your destination on time4 ,the alertness and quickness of perception that bicycling cultivates seem marvellous4 ,a road1 previously accepted as ordinarily good1 becomes full of pitfalls that the wary learn to avoid4 ,slippery or uneven surfaces1 tacks and broken glass1 are to be noted and avoided1 inequalities allowed for1 and preparation made to overcome the tendency of the machine on unexpected hard bits of road4 ,one of the dangers of sidepath wheeling often encountered is a slippery spot or a place where the surface may give way1 such as the edge of a bank along which the path runs1 with a fence on the other side4 ,here1 if the bicycle slips1 the bicyclist is pretty sure to be thrown against the fence4 ,in sidepath wheeling a sharp lookout must be kept for these slippery spots and weak edges1 and also for stones or stumps that run through the uneven surface4 ,a first coast on a hill whose pitch has been miscalculated1 and which proves steeper than was anticipated1 is a terrible surprise4 ,to find one's self clinging desperately to a runaway machine1 with no hope save in the ascending grade that seems so far away1 is anything but a pleasant experience4 ,in such case sit still1 hold fast1 keep straight1 and if nothing is in the way to collide with1 there is hope1 barring unexpected surface obstacles4 ,the coaster's safety in steering lies in swaying2 the pedals are out of the question1 and the front wheel is better undisturbed4 ,a slight inclination to either side will alter the course of the bicycle without interfering with balance or momentum1 and the hands can be ready1 gripping hard1 to keep the wheel steady4 ,in coasting1 sit well in the saddle1 letting that take the whole weight1 and do not push too hard with the feet on the coasters4 ,the feet should not be braced against the coasters1 but should rest easily against them with an even pressure4 ,to learn to coast1 practise at first either on a slight or a small grade2 another way is to get up speed on the level1 and take one foot off at the time4 ,the most marvellous experience of bicycling is to have a wind carry you coasting up hill--a wind1 too1 that is seemingly adverse1 or at least not directly favorable4 ,trust to the map1 the watch1 and the cyclometer to locate your whereabouts1 and do not place too much faith in answers to inquiries1 unless you are speaking to a bicyclist2 for people unaccustomed to accurate judgment differ greatly in their estimation of a given distance or a general direction4 ,you need only stop three or four times in a mile or two1 and inquire the way to a town say five or six miles distant1 to be convinced of this fact4 ,,chapter ,,xiii4 ,women and ,tools4 ,most women can sew on a button or run up a seam2 sewing1 in fact1 is regarded rather as a feminine instinct than an art4 ,there are many capable people in the world1 both men and women1 who can comprehend at a glance the use or the application of an article or an idea--people who instinctively use their eyes and hands with ease and accuracy2 there are others who learn more slowly to use their mechanical senses2 and there are also those whose attention has never been called to certain simple mechanical facts and details that they are quite capable of understanding4 ,to all the mastery of these facts means an expenditure of more or less time1 and in this busy world of ours1 there is nothing so much appreciated or so carelessly wasted4 ,it is my intention to place before my readers a few simple mechanical explanations4 ,i hold that any woman who is able to use a needle or scissors can use other tools equally well4 ,it is a very important matter for a bicyclist to be acquainted with all parts of the bicycle1 their uses and adjustment4 ,many a weary hour would be spared were a little proper attention given at the right time to your machine4 ,illustration3 ,,starting ,a ,,nut4 ,ask any carriage maker or coachman1 and he will tell you that everything on wheels needs attention4 ,any owner or lover of horses will say that horses require constant care4 ,the bicyclist is the motor1 the horse2 the bicycle1 the vehicle4 ,these ideas should remain distinct4 ,when you mount a wheel1 you do not mount an iron horse2 you are a human propelling power1 and the bicycle is a carriage4 ,it is all important to work without unnecessary effort1 and for this you must have a knowledge of bicycle construction1 how to make the machine run smoothly1 and how not to injure the human motor or the mechanism4 ,the human body is so beautifully self-adjustable that it may be safely attributed to ignorance or neglect if anything goes wrong with it4 ,attention should always be paid at the right time to nature's warnings2 they are danger-signals1 and if disregarded1 unpleasant results are sure to follow4 ,a little common-sense goes far2 and with that and a right knowledge--not necessarily an extensive knowledge--of the working of the human machine1 there need be little to fear from injuries resulting from athletic exercise4 ,the amount of work different individuals can perform1 of course1 varies4 ,find out how much work you ought to do1 and do it4 ,a physician is the only competent judge of your limitations4 ,never attempt any new form of exercise without being examined for it4 ,sensible people when they purchase a horse require a veterinary certificate to accompany the guarantee2 and the work the horse is to do is planned according to the ascertained amount the animal is capable of performing4 ,if it is right for you to wheel but five miles every other day1 and at a certain hour only1 it does not follow that that is always to be your limit4 ,practice accomplishes great results2 and the strength and endurance that come of exercise taken regularly1 under proper conditions1 seems marvellous to those who1 after a course of proper preparation1 attempt and accomplish with pleasure and ease what at first seemed impossible4 ,it is hard1 of course1 to see some one else do what you would like to do and cannot2 but it is weak not to be able to say1 8,i have done enough1 and ,i must stop40 ,there are many other people similarly placed4 ,the bicycle may be so adapted and adjusted as to enable bicyclists of different powers to work together and enjoy a fair amount of sociability2 for if one has wheeled around the world1 why should that spoil one's pleasure in wheeling around a block8 ,to wheel alone is not much pleasure4 ,find some one to wheel around the block with you1 and you have the beginning of a club4 ,many people do not understand what is best for them4 ,the experienced athlete knows the amount of work he can do1 and what must be done and avoided to enable him to do his work well4 ,women and girls are able to do good work1 but they should not expect to accomplish such a result through ignorance or neglect4 ,they must be willing to study and to give proper attention to important details1 and their knowledge of the subject must be sufficient to enable them to use judgment and discrimination4 ,almost any form of athletics will aid in cultivating these qualities2 and bicycling has besides valuable educational features of its own4 ,a certain familiarity with mechanics is assured by a course of bicycling1 for it is impossible to handle a bicycle without taking some degree of interest in its construction4 ,women must expect ridicule and little sympathy from experienced cyclists if they essay feats they should not attempt4 ,many decide that a thing must be easy of accomplishment because they have seen some one do it easily4 ,easy muscular work1 however1 is the result of strength1 confidence1 and precision of movement1 which come only from practice4 ,all new muscular movements and combinations of movements must be learned2 they cannot be acquired hurriedly with good results4 ,people who can work well are usually patient with a beginner who is doing his best1 knowing themselves what it means to work hard and to face disappointment and failure and what is involved in repeated effort4 ,the ambitious are liable to over-exertion1 the timid not to practice enough4 ,there is much prejudice against athletic exercise for women and girls1 many believing that nothing of the kind can be done without over-doing2 but there is a right way of going about athletics as everything else4 ,prejudice can be removed only by showing good results1 and good results can be accomplished only by work done under proper restrictions4 ,to do a thing easily is to do it gracefully2 and grace1 without properly balanced muscular action1 is impossible2 grace is the embodiment of balance1 strength1 and intelligence4 ,jerky movement indicates lack of muscular development and training4 ,the human machine is capable of a seemingly unlimited series of muscular movements and combined muscular motions4 ,any training or practice of mind or muscles assists to fit them for new combinations4 ,but little time is necessary to learn to know how to do and what to do1 though the subjects to be considered1 mechanics and physiology1 are exhaustive and extensive in their range4 ,it is always a pleasure to do a thing well1 whether it is handling a needle or using a screw-driver2 and the art of using either successfully is not difficult to acquire4 ,with the bicycle it is necessary to know what to do2 the human motor1 unless pushed beyond reasonable limits1 is self-adjusting4 ,over-taxing is the result often of too great ambition1 of failure to keep in view the proper aim of exercise1 and sacrificing health and ultimate success for passing vanity4 ,the bicycle is but the means to the end1 first of all1 of health--health of mind and body4 ,the human mechanism is far more difficult to adjust when out of order than the mechanism of the bicycle4 ,in bicycling1 the two machines are one and interdependent4 ,the foot on the pedal pushing the crank is but one point of application of power conveyed by a series of levers1 actuated by muscles1 controlled by nerves1 supplied and directed by accumulated power4 ,illustration3 ,,adjusting ,a ,,wrench4 ,we hear of horse-power as a unit2 we have also human power--the amount of power the average individual can exercise4 ,food supplies material to be converted into power1 stored and transmuted in the human system either for use or waste1 as the case may be4 ,energy or power1 unless applied within a specified time1 is given off as heat1 etc4 ,less food is needed1 loss of appetite follows1 if too little work is done4 ,the muscular tissues become almost useless1 it is an effort to do any kind of work2 the power is not there4 ,by gradual and persistent practice1 strength is acquired1 and power stored in reserve4 ,exercise tends to strengthen1 not to weaken2 over-exercise uses up stored power and newly acquired power as well2 longer periods of rest are needed to renew the wasted tissues than is necessary when exercise is not carried to excess4 ,it must be kept in mind when bicycling that rider and wheel are a complete1 compound1 combined mechanism1 and mechanically inseparable4 ,the wheeler's weight1 when shifted or inclined1 affects his equilibrium1 and wheeler and bicycle are as much one as a skater and his skates4 ,levers and their application2 power1 stored1 distributed1 or wasted2 how to prevent waste and acquire reserve2 proper adjustment to mechanical environment1 translated to mean the use of a few common tools1 and their application to the adjustment of the bicycle2 and the care1 adjustment1 and proper preparation of the machine for work1 are points of such importance that too much stress cannot be laid on them4 ,a little thought1 a little attention at the right time1 prepares for emergencies1 for cheerful work1 and for the enjoyment of the exercise1 and the health and accumulated benefits sure to follow4 ,,chapter ,,xiv4 ,tools and ,how to ,use ,them4 8,a nut is a piece of metal adapted to screw on the end of a bolt40 8,a bolt is a stout metallic pin adapted for holding objects together40 ,the nut is to the bolt what the knot is to the thread1 to keep it from slipping through4 ,iron and steel are fibrous materials1 and very hard2 though strong1 they are also brittle4 ,indeed1 these metals1 and metals generally1 resemble molasses candy in their nature more than any other familiar substance that will serve for illustration4 ,when heated1 they become soft and liquid2 when cold1 they are tough1 hard1 and even brittle4 ,a few powerful1 sharp blows with a heavy object are enough to fracture a piece of metal4 ,direct1 heavy blows or tapping on the end of a bolt will flatten and alter its shape sufficiently to cause the edges to project1 a very little seemingly1 but enough to render it useless4 ,illustration3 ,,applying ,,power4 ,if you wish to remove a bolt that seems to fit too tight and resists ordinary methods1 place the nut on the bolt1 and screw it on level1 so that the end of the bolt will be flush or even with the top of the nut4 ,then lay your piece of wood1 quite smooth and flat1 on the nut and bolt1 covering both1 and hammer gently on that with a heavy hammer1 with gentle1 short1 sharp1 even strokes4 ,the most obstinate bolt will usually yield to this method of persuasion4 ,should a burr have formed on the end of a bolt1 a file is necessary to remove it2 and filing off a burr is a somewhat lengthy and tedious operation4 ,unscrew a nut gently and examine it4 ,on the inside will be found a spiral groove and a spiral ridge or thread4 ,examine the bolt1 and observe a similar spiral groove and thread4 ,these1 when screwed together1 prevent slipping1 and the nut cannot be pulled or pushed off4 ,to remove the nut1 it is necessary to turn it2 and always turn one way1 from left to right1 if the nut lies uppermost4 ,to keep a nut from unscrewing by jarring1 etc41 screw it down until it jams1 as it is called1 firmly against the surface it rests on4 ,if screwed too tight1 it will burst or break the thread1 or if enough force is applied the bolt may break4 ,this hardly seems possible until we realize that in the wrench we possess a very powerful lever1 capable of destroying quite a large bolt and its accompanying nut4 ,if pains be taken always to start a nut on square and to turn gently and firmly and not too fast1 the previous instructions may prove unnecessary4 ,there are usually two kinds of wrench in a bicycle outfit--an adjustable wrench with sliding jaw1 and one or more key-wrenches1 so called because made to fit particular parts of the machine1 and to be used for them only4 ,the adjustable wrench with sliding jaw should be used with the pressure or pull coming on the angle of the head1 and the sliding jaw so placed as to hold its position1 the wrench applied so that the greatest strain is taken at the strongest part2 then the faces of the jaw keep smooth and true1 and will not deface the plating or polish of the machine4 ,there is another point to note--that a properly adjusted wrench starts a nut easily1 while if the strain is taken on the movable jaw of the wrench1 there is give enough in the wrench itself to prevent the nut from starting1 and the wrench slips off the nut without effecting its object4 ,the handle of the wrench acts as a lever1 and the head of the wrench forms a right angle with the handle2 it is here that the power is centred1 not at the angle made by the movable jaw4 ,of course1 this position seems the reverse of proper until it is analyzed2 but once understood and adopted1 it will prove most effective4 ,there are various screws in and about the machine4 ,a screw is defined as a bolt or bar having a thread cut upon it spirally1 so that it will enter a hole in which a corresponding spiral groove and thread have been cut1 or on which they will be formed by the screw entering the hole4 ,the thread and screw interwind and prevent the screw from being withdrawn unless it is turned4 ,to turn the screw1 a notch is cut on one end1 which is made flat for that purpose1 and the other end of the screw is pointed1 to enable it to enter the hole easily4 ,after a screw is placed and started in its proper hole1 it is only necessary to turn it until it is driven home4 ,to turn the screw1 a short bar is flattened thin to enter the notch on the end of the screw4 ,illustration3 ,,screwing ,,up4 ,the screw-driver should be held and turned with one hand1 and steadied and guided with the other4 ,metal is not so hard but that the leverage of the screw-driver is enough to bend the notches on the end of a screw1 and thus render it useless4 ,the question may be raised1 ,why are not screws made harder8 ,if metal is tempered too hard1 it becomes brittle1 and flies4 ,a well-tempered screw should be neither too hard nor too soft1 but adapted for its particular use or position4 ,a screw should always be made clean before it is screwed home1 any particle of dust or rust being liable to injure the thread and spoil the screw4 ,if the screw is oily or greasy1 it will work loose4 ,all screws1 bolts1 etc41 therefore1 should be carefully wiped1 and never placed where there is any chance for even a little dust to settle upon them4 ,a nut with a small grain of sand inside will burst or break the thread of the bolt4 ,bolts and screws are used to hold different parts together or in place and to give strength and firmness4 ,there is usually an oil-can belonging to every machine1 and a bicycle should be provided with a good one1 small1 light1 and easily carried2 and special care should be taken that it does not leak4 ,a greasy oil-can is unpleasant to handle and almost useless1 as it cannot be handled properly4 ,the least possible amount of oil that can be used is the proper quantity4 ,greasy bearings only collect dust1 and the dust follows the oil back into the friction surfaces1 where its presence is always undesirable4 ,two kinds of lubricant are used on a bicycle--oil and graphite4 ,a lubricant is used to diminish friction where two or more surfaces move over each other4 ,if these surfaces are of the same material and the same degree of hardness1 they do not slip2 but the unevennesses of the surfaces engage each other and cause resistance1 which produces friction1 and friction causes heat1 and the parts move more and more slowly1 until at last they stop4 ,now1 if a substance of a different character1 like oil or graphite1 is introduced between the moving surfaces1 it forms little cushions1 which prevent the two surfaces from coming into close contact2 and1 as the oil or graphite splits up readily into minute particles1 the surfaces slip upon that1 instead of holding fast4 ,a smooth surface of metal is full of inequalities1 perceptible when magnified1 and slipping past each other with as much difficulty as would surfaces of sand paper4 ,only oil of the best quality and pure graphite should be used4 ,nothing sticky or gritty in its nature should be allowed near bearing surfaces4 ,the pump is an all-important and indispensable adjunct of the pneumatic tire4 ,each tire is fitted with a valve1 and accompanied by a pump with which to inflate it4 ,a valve is a lifting1 sliding cover1 connected with an aperture to prevent the passage of air or other fluids1 and so constructed that the pump forces the cover down1 and the air pushes past4 ,the cover is held in place by a spring and air pressure1 and1 fitting tightly against a washer of some soft1 impervious material1 makes an air-tight joint1 and will not move unless displaced4 ,the pump itself is fitted with a valve to fill its cylinder or barrel with air1 and to hold the air after the cylinder is full and when the plunger of the pump is forcing the air out of it again4 ,a flexible tube coupling is used to connect the pump-barrel with the valve of the tire4 ,illustration3 ,,unscrewing4 ,the valves are of many patterns and sizes1 and there are pumps made to fit special tires1 and pumps that will in a manner suit almost any ordinary valve4 ,it is most important to note that all the washers about the pump and valves are in place4 ,deflated tires are often caused by a misplaced washer2 and though valves are so constructed that it is not easy to disturb the washers1 still it is well to know where they are and when they require attention4 ,washers wear out and require renewing1 and sometimes a defective washer should be replaced2 they are usually made of rubber or leather1 but metal washers are sometimes used where there is much pressure or friction4 ,the metal used in bicycle construction must be finished1 smoothed1 and prepared to resist the corroding effects of the atmosphere and to present an attractive and durable exterior4 ,the metal used for the different parts must be smoothed and polished2 all foreign substances1 like grease1 removed from their surface by a chemical process2 and lastly a coating of nickel deposited on the surface by means of electricity4 ,the nickel in this way becomes a part of the original metal1 and protects its surface from rust and corrosion4 ,a well-nickeled piece of metal1 beautifully polished1 and kept free from finger marks1 loses its lustre only when neglected4 ,of course1 there are other ways of finishing the surface of the metal parts of the bicycle2 other plating metal may be substituted for the nickel1 and other finish than polish used4 ,light wheels cannot be recommended for rough country or for very fast work over only moderately good roads4 ,a certain weight of material has been taken from the bicycle to make it light2 the machine begins to lose its rigidity and consequently its accuracy1 and cannot maintain its direction1 but wavers1 and really travels further to attain a given distance4 ,the weight of a bicycle should depend on the roads it is to cover and the purposes it is to serve4 ,very light wheels wear out quickly2 they cannot stand the strain of practice4 ,beginners1 therefore1 should choose a wheel that can endure the handling they will give it4 ,a very light1 well-made1 and delicately adjusted bicycle can carry a skilled cyclist anywhere2 but a light wheel sooner loses its accuracy1 and is then more difficult to work than a heavier wheel that runs true4 ,heavy wheels are not to be endured2 light wheels1 too light wheels1 not to be encouraged4 ,,chapter ,,xv4 ,solving a ,problem4 ,when choosing a wheel1 you should know what you want and why you want it4 ,machines are built for special purposes1 and any reliable dealer can help you in selecting a machine and will guarantee satisfaction4 ,bicycles wear out1 of course1 but with proper care they may be made to last a long time4 ,careful examination of your wheel should always be made before starting for even a short ride2 and on returning it is well to test gear and pedals1 to look at spokes and tires4 ,any needed repair can be noted1 and attended to at convenience4 ,always examine your bicycle thoroughly after a collision1 for shocks are dangerous even to the toughest metal1 and such precaution may prevent a serious accident4 ,on returning from a ride the wheel should have a thorough going over1 the enamel dusted1 and any mud washed off with a wet sponge4 ,the chain1 if your machine has one1 should be taken off every two or three hundred miles of dusty road1 and soaked in kerosene over night2 the nickel or metal well dusted1 rubbed with a chamois1 and polished2 and all the bearings1 axles1 and gear carefully wiped1 and dust and grit removed4 ,then the chain should be replaced1 oiled1 graphited1 and the bearings oiled4 ,the chain is a complicated mechanism1 consisting of many repetitions of parts2 it should be kept clean and well lubricated4 ,to apply graphite1 turn the wheel upside down1 hold the graphite still against the chain1 and turn the wheel4 ,the oil is needed in the joints of the chain2 the graphite where the chain engages the cogs4 ,the other parts used for applying power need the usual care given to the best machines--absolute cleanliness1 freedom from grit1 and thorough lubrication4 ,the chain is at present a mechanical detail only1 and the application of power to the wheel capable of a great variety of forms4 ,the principle remains the same1 the application of power2 the mechanical contrivance for transmitting it is a detail of construction4 ,the difference of individuality can be compensated for in the length of the lever1 size and number of gear1 size of wheel1 diameter of wheel1 and width of tread4 ,the ideal machine requires little adjustment4 ,the less the screws1 the nuts1 and the bearings are wrenched1 the more perfect is the machine1 the more free from wear and dents and scratches4 ,to apply a wrench is a serious responsibility that should not be undertaken lightly4 ,it seems easy1 and yet skilled men are employed just for that kind of work1 for it is work requiring the precision of the trained mechanic4 ,illustration3 ,,preparing ,,to ,,turn ,,the ,,bicycle ,,over4 ,after purchasing a watch1 the owner does not at once investigate the machinery2 yet many1 because the tools are at hand1 are tempted to experiment on a bicycle4 ,a bicycle1 like a watch1 should be ready to run1 and only require winding up to keep it going4 ,it should be adjusted2 and if it needs regulating1 this should be done by people who understand the machine and have the requisite knowledge and responsibility to do well what is to be done4 ,two rules may be laid down for one who does not study mechanical details--never to touch the bicycle except to ride it2 and never to let any one else touch it who has not skill and experience4 ,this practice will prove satisfactory until some day1 miles from home1 the bicycle will not go2 you carry it more miles to the nearest conveyance1 and send it home4 ,there you have it examined1 and find that a touch sets it free2 just as sometimes1 when your watch will not go1 you take it to a watchmaker1 and he examines it1 winds it up1 and hands it back1 telling you there is no charge4 ,after learning to wheel a bicycle1 therefore1 the next step should be to learn to care for it4 ,unless somewhat familiar with machinery1 it is bewildering to contemplate taking the thing apart and putting all those parts together again2 even more bewildering is it1 having taken the thing apart1 not to be able to put it together4 ,in such case1 there is nothing to do but to gather the pieces of the puzzle1 and send them to be set up4 ,if in this extremity a friend who knows all about a bicycle should offer assistance1 it is well to hear what he has to say before he undertakes the work4 8,i do not think your wheel is just like mine10 perhaps1 or 8,where do these things belong80 is enough for the wise4 ,better send to the shop for a machinist at once4 ,all the parts of the bicycle are made to go together in one way1 and any attempt at experiment may injure the mechanism4 ,when you undertake to investigate a bicycle for the first time1 take an old one as a subject1 and endeavor to put it in perfect running order4 ,if an old bicycle cannot be had1 proceed with much circumspection4 ,go where you will be undisturbed1 where there is plenty of room1 and where a key may be turned if there is possibility of interruption4 ,there is sure to be some oil and grease spattered about1 in spite of the utmost care1 and it is well to remember this while making preparations4 ,have ready a pile of old newspapers1 some cups1 plates1 and boxes1 and a painting apron if you possess one2 if not an old skirt and apron1 and sleeves well rolled up4 ,for tools1 a monkey-wrench1 two or three screw-drivers1 large as well as small1 a hammer1 one or two pieces of wood1 the bicycle kit1 oil1 graphite1 a can of kerosene1 some cheesecloth and canton flannel1 and a large wooden box4 ,take two newspapers folded in half1 and put them on the floor for the saddle and handle-bars2 then turn the bicycle upside down1 and arrange the newspapers under the saddle and handles4 ,if there is a bell1 take it off1 or place a block under the opposite end of the bar to balance it4 ,before turning the bicycle over1 remove the lantern1 if there is one on the bicycle1 as the oil will be spilled out if the lamp is turned upside down4 ,illustration3 ,,turning ,,the ,,bicycle ,,over4 ,begin by carefully removing all mud and grit from the bicycle4 ,wear old gloves1 and remove mud with the hand when possible1 finishing with a cheese-cloth duster and an old oily cloth4 ,go over all the joints where the wheels turn1 and remove every particle of grit1 then remove mud and dust4 ,an experienced worker1 to save labor1 cleans each piece as it comes off1 but the beginner must work more slowly4 ,have ready a shallow box or tray to receive the parts as they are removed4 ,lay each part1 as it is taken off1 in the tray1 with the oily side up1 for a guide4 ,first1 remove the chain1 turn it until the nut of the little screw-bolt is found4 ,this little bolt forms one of the link-pins1 and can be found quite readily4 ,one end of the bolt has a screw-head notch1 and the other a nut and thread4 ,use the small bicycle screw-wrench for this1 a large screw-driver1 and a small screw-driver to fit the screw4 ,turn the chain until the bolt is in a convenient position1 then take the large screw-driver or a rod1 and place through the spokes of the rear wheel1 letting the bar rest on the frame4 ,this will prevent the wheel from turning1 and keep the pedals and sprocket-wheel in position2 your fingers may be caught and badly cut if this precaution is not taken4 ,fasten the small wrench on the little nut1 and hold it there with one hand1 with the other unscrewing the little screw with a small screw-driver4 ,should the screw fail to yield easily1 a drop or two of kerosene will soften the rust and grit1 and help to start it4 ,return the nut to the screw end1 and place it on the tray4 ,take hold of one end of the chain1 and remove the bar that steadies the rear wheel1 then turn one of the pedal cranks1 and the chain will come off in your hand4 ,the chain should be placed in kerosene and left to soak4 ,the enamel of the frame should then be carefully rubbed and polished with canton flannel4 ,a clean piece should be kept for the purpose1 for if greasy it gives a dull look to the enamel4 ,the plating should be first polished with a cloth1 and then if dull with whiting4 ,nickel plating takes a beautiful polish with electro-silicon used on canton flannel4 ,go carefully over each oil-cup1 and be sure it is cleaned1 and work around the ends of the axles4 ,ascertain if either wheel needs adjusting1 and look carefully to see that the rims are true4 ,a good way to do this is to hold a pencil-top on the frame against the rim of the wheel1 and spin the wheel4 ,if it touches evenly all around1 the wheel is true2 if uneven1 take the bicycle to a repair shop and have the wheels trued as soon as possible4 ,after cleaning all the bearings1 put oil in the oil-cups and replace the chain4 ,it is well to leave the chain soaking in kerosene1 and later hang it up to drip1 and when dry1 it will be found bright and clean2 or keep a can of lubricating oil in which to soak the chain1 and after draining it thoroughly1 wipe clean before replacing on the machine4 ,take an oil-can1 and oil each separate rivet4 ,start the chain on the sprocket1 and pull it over the rear sprocket by turning a pedal crank1 bringing the ends on the lower side4 ,place the bar across as before1 to keep the sprocket from moving1 and then replace the little screw-bolt1 using a small wrench1 and a screw-driver that fits the screw4 ,remove the bar1 see that the chain is not too tight1 and note if it requires any taking up1 an adjustment that is done in the rear wheel4 ,illustration3 ,,the ,,bicycle ,,turned ,,over4 ,hold the stick of graphite on a convenient surface of the chain1 and turn the cranks2 then dust the chain to take off any small lumps of the lubricant1 and the wheel is ready to be run4 ,examine the tires and valves1 see that the tires are not too soft1 and inflate them4 ,see that the valves are in order1 then set the wheel right side up4 ,replace bell and lantern1 rub off any finger-marks1 and the bicycle is ready4 ,if the bicycle has been running for some time1 and in spite of the care bestowed on it1 the chain runs a little heavy1 the pedals don't spin as they should1 or the cranks revolve as often as they might1 and the wheels are sluggish1 there is no remedy but to take down the bicycle1 clean it thoroughly1 set it up and adjust it4 ,it will require several hours' hard work to do this1 combined with a knowledge of machinery and a knowledge of bicycle working1 or else enterprise1 care1 and common sense4 ,begin work on a wheel perfectly free1 as far as the outside can be made so1 from sand1 mud1 and grit4 ,remove the chain and put it to soak4 ,have a pan of kerosene1 and place each small part in that to soak1 and any part that has friction surface or is notably oily or greasy4 ,begin serious work on a pedal1 which is small and easily handled4 ,if the pedal is a removable one1 take it off4 ,if the spindle is stationary1 take off the movable parts1 first the nuts or screws1 then loosen the cones1 having a box placed underneath to catch the balls if any should fall out4 ,support the box well up under the pedal1 as the balls bounce and jump about4 ,even if you have had the pedals off before1 and know how it is done1 it is well to have something to catch the balls1 as otherwise you must atone for any mistake by a scramble4 ,place the balls in a separate dish of kerosene1 and carefully count them4 ,wipe the movable parts of the pedals with a cloth wet in kerosene1 and finish with a dry cloth4 ,in taking a pedal down1 the place of each part should be carefully noted1 so that it may be a simple matter to replace the parts4 ,if1 the first pedal being now apart1 the novice is confused1 there is the other pedal to afford comparison4 ,study that1 then return the parts of the dismembered pedal to their proper places1 and adjust them4 ,the balls may prove troublesome2 but a screw-driver dipped in vaseline will pick up any very small balls1 and pliers can manage the larger ones4 ,see that cones and washers are replaced1 then add a few drops of oil1 adjusting the pedal to spin easily without lateral play1 and tighten cones and nuts4 ,spin the pedal for a final test1 and then begin on the other pedal4 ,if after several hours' work1 but one pedal is finished1 if that one pedal is in perfect order1 there is much cause for congratulation4 ,the other pedal may be done very much more easily and rapidly4 ,of course1 it takes time to wipe all the balls and cones1 and nuts and screws1 and washers and spindles1 and when the pedal is in your hand1 a little time may be spent to give it an extra rub to brighten its polish4 ,wipe off any oil that may have shown in the joints of the bearings1 and the pedals are finished4 ,the front wheel should next engage attention4 ,take a large wrench1 and start the bearing cones1 and take off the nuts at opposite sides of the ends of the forks4 ,these nuts are screwed on the ends of the axle1 and perhaps have metal washers under them4 ,place them in a box by themselves1 and if the forks are notched1 there will be nothing to do but to lift out the wheel4 ,if the ends of the forks have only eyes1 the forks must be sprung to take the wheel out4 ,when the wheel is in your hand1 avoid letting any grease or oil touch the tire1 for it will injure the rubber4 ,now proceed to work on the axles4 ,support the wheel on a large1 empty wooden box4 ,the axle is a spindle1 and has cones to hold the balls in against the bearings4 ,the cones must be removed and cleaned1 and the socket of the hub made clean with an oily cloth followed by a clean one4 ,the axle's spindle should be replaced1 and the balls and cones restored to their proper relative positions4 ,drop in a little oil1 adjust and tighten the cones1 then spring the wheel back between the forks1 and true it2 see that it runs even between the forks and that the cones are keyed up firm and even4 ,replace the nuts1 and screw up firm4 ,wipe off any oil that may have worked out1 and spin the wheel to try it4 ,if it runs long and steadily1 and has no lateral play1 and everything is keyed up tight and true1 this part of the work may be considered finished4 ,some prefer to use a little pure graphite for the balls1 and no oil2 and again some bicycles are made without oil-cups4 ,for the first work1 oil is safer to handle2 but remember that two or three drops are enough4 ,too much is worse than useless1 for oil spreads over a large surface1 and will cover all the surface of the bicycle with a thin film1 which will need to be constantly wiped off4 ,the rear wheel may be removed without springing the frame4 ,unscrew the adjustment attachment1 and the wheel will come out4 ,clean the rear wheel bearings in the same way you have cleaned those of the front wheel2 replace the rear wheel1 and put back the adjusting attachment4 ,give the crank axle the same care and attention that the wheel axles have received4 ,the pedal cranks are fastened on either end of the crank axle in such a way that the dead centre is avoided as much as possible4 ,the large sprocket-wheel is on the crank axles1 and sometimes not movable4 ,the cranks are screwed or fastened with pins to the ends of the axles1 and should not be disturbed4 ,take the large key-wrench from the kit1 and start the bearing cones4 ,if the crank must come off1 see that the nut on the end of the crank-pin is flush with the end1 and place a piece of wood on it before striking it with a hammer1 as already explained1 to start the bolt or pin4 ,or if you have some one to help1 let a heavy hammer-head be held under the crank beside the bolt1 at the other end2 and the double shock and recoil from the heavy hammer as the blow is struck will jar the bolt loose4 ,remove and clean the cones and balls1 then replace and oil them1 and adjust the cones tight1 ready for adjustment when the cranks are in place4 ,the only bearings left to attend to are those in the head of the frame4 ,take out the handle-bars1 and wipe them and their socket very carefully2 never allow any oil to remain there4 ,the handles should never be immovably tight2 yet grease1 if any were introduced1 would perhaps cause them to slip when they should remain in place4 ,the crank axle-key usually fits the cone of the head of the frame1 and that may be treated as any other set of ball bearings--loosened1 removed1 cleaned1 replaced1 oiled1 adjusted1 and tightened4 ,any dust may be removed from inside the frame-head while the bearings are off4 ,when the head bearings have been restored and the handle-bar replaced1 put on the chain and adjust it4 ,the rear wheel is arranged to move forward or back on the frame by the adjusting attachment4 ,this allows the two sprocket-wheels to be placed nearer together or farther apart1 and the chain may be stretched and held between them to any desired degree of rigidity or of slackness4 ,when the bicycle has been set up1 the parts correctly replaced1 before turning it right side up1 go over the entire adjustment of the machine1 to see that nothing has been forgotten4 ,have wrench and screw-driver at hand and a clean cloth4 ,begin with the bearings of the front wheel4 ,see that the oil is not working out1 and wipe them again4 ,take the key1 and see that they are true and tight4 ,apply the screw-wrench to the nuts of the fork1 and see that they are screwed home4 ,treat the rear wheel in the same way1 and look that both wheels travel on the same line or plane2 if they do not1 it is because the bearings are out or the frame is bent4 ,go over the axle bearing1 feel the chain1 spin the pedals and wheels4 ,a well-adjusted wheel will carry the weight of the valve around quickly and then swing back1 showing how sensitive it is to so small a weight4 ,if you are satisfied that everything is right1 turn the bicycle right side up1 and square the handle-bars4 ,the only way to do this is to stand in front of the bicycle1 and take the wheel between the knees while the handles are pulled into place4 ,the saddle-post and screw-nuts that hold it should be examined and removed and carefully wiped1 as well as the socket where they belong4 ,the screw that holds the saddle-post in place does its work by friction1 and any oil would prevent it from acting properly1 and the saddle would slip4 ,keep the oil-can carefully wiped1 and see that the little spout has a clean round hole at the end that will allow only a drop at a time to escape2 for oil travels and spreads in a marvellous manner1 appearing where least expected or wanted4 ,if there is a hand-brake on the bicycle1 adjusted to alter with the handle-bars1 examine it carefully1 and wipe the rods4 ,oil here will allow the coupling to slip and the action of the brake to be impaired4 ,illustration3 ,,straightening ,,the ,,handle-,,bars4 ,there are so many things to be carefully observed and accurately done in this kind of work that mistakes and omissions may be easily made by the inexperienced2 but there need not be so many blunders1 after all1 if one works slowly and observingly1 taking notes1 in writing if necessary1 as for instance how far the bearing cones are keyed in when in place1 which is the reverse side of the crank and pedal pins1 if they are interchangeable1 or rights and lefts4 ,screw threads are made rights and lefts1 and threads are made to fit them in the sockets where they belong4 ,that pedals may not work loose1 the spindles are made right and left1 with a reverse screw1 so that forward pedaling drives them tighter4 ,in the older constructions1 the pedal sometimes became unscrewed and fell off1 or the nut fell off and the pedal loosened4 ,all such matters should be studied before taking down a machine4 ,usually the maker's catalogue will describe and illustrate these details4 ,study that1 and learn the names and uses of all the parts of the bicycle1 and then you will be prepared to go to work by yourself1 or with but little assistance4 ,,chapter ,,xvi4 ,where to ,keep a ,bicycle4 ,almost anywhere that a bicycle can stand or hang will do for a place to keep it2 and almost any place will do to go to work on a bicycle--the roadside1 the lawn 7though the grass is worse than a haystack to lose things in71 anywhere1 in fact1 that may suit your convenience4 ,the accessories of the bicycle should have places where they may always be found1 and the bicycle itself should be kept where it will be undisturbed and where it may be kept free from finger-marks1 dust1 and oil4 ,with the bicycle should be kept certain conveniences for handling it--a table or bench fitted conveniently1 frames to hold the wheel for cleaning and adjusting1 a good light to work by1 and a place for the tools that are sure to accumulate4 ,there are two kinds of workshop for the amateur--the one that you fit up for yourself1 and the one that is fitted up for you4 ,the amateur with a place well fitted out likes to add details of home construction1 and the proud owner of a corner cupboard is always anxious to replace makeshifts4 ,in either case1 get the best you can1 and take care of it4 ,of tools1 the best are always cheapest2 but good tools1 or tools of any kind1 can become a very expensive luxury4 ,taste for the best comes quickly to even the moderately enthusiastic4 ,a bicycle rack room should be light1 with plenty of head room1 and conveniently fitted with racks1 shelves1 and lockers4 ,each rack should have its corresponding shelf-room and pigeon-hole1 either beside it or above and behind it4 ,there is an infinite variety of racks to select from1 from the two stakes driven into the ground or fastened to the floor1 to the handsomely finished metal racks with joints to hold the frame at any angle4 ,if there is but one bicycle to care for1 it is better to have its rack and shelf and cupboard together--the rack to hold the bicycle in a proper position1 the shelf for sundry attachments1 and the cupboard for the lamp and extras4 ,such a bicycle corner can be made very attractive to look at when everything is arranged and kept in perfect order4 ,when several bicycles are to be cared for together1 when neatly set up they make a very pretty showing4 ,if possible1 the rack-room should be separate1 set apart for that purpose1 and kept under lock and key2 it should be dry and well lighted1 free from frost1 and not likely to be over-heated by direct sun-rays in summer4 ,the frost is injurious to metal and enamel2 and the sun or too much heat will spoil rubber1 and possibly injure enamel as well4 ,an even temperature1 not any special degree of temperature1 is requisite2 for changes of temperature cause different degrees of expansion and contraction in different materials2 and as the steel frame1 and the enamel it is covered with1 do not expand and contract in quite the same degree1 they will gradually work loose from each other1 and the enamel will flake or split4 ,the rubber tire should be kept out of the sun1 and the place where it stands should be kept very clean1 and no oil allowed about2 for oil is injurious to the rubber1 and in case of punctures makes repairing very difficult1 if not impossible4 ,a rubber surface with even the slightest film of oil will not make a joint1 as the oil prevents the rubber surface and that of the cement and the article to be repaired from uniting4 ,if the workshop is to be used by more than one person1 each should have a tool-chest and a work-bench of his own1 and each tool-chest provided with lock and key1 and each person with a key to the outer door4 ,tools are but the continuation of the individual brain and will power4 ,what one handles becomes1 while in one's hand1 a part of one's self1 as it were4 ,tools1 therefore1 should be individual property always1 just as scissors and thimble are1 though of course extra tools may be provided for general work4 ,every one prefers a good pair of scissors to a poor pair1 and the same preference is likely to be evinced in the case of other tools4 ,if the tools are common property1 the best will be always taken1 and often not restored to their proper place4 ,a bicycle workshop is devoted to metal work1 woodwork1 and rubber work4 ,the metal work should be kept by itself1 and the tools used for metal work only4 ,the amateur can commence fitting a shop by setting up a small deal table and a vise4 ,the table will do for a work-bench1 and one vise will serve for a beginning2 it should be of medium size1 quite heavy1 made of wrought iron or cast steel1 and capable of holding a wrench in its jaws1 though a less expensive one could be made to do4 ,a cheap vise1 however1 is pretty sure to break if a strain is put upon it2 and1 while a good workman could get comparatively good work out of a poor vise1 the poor tool in unskilled hands would be sure to show its weak place4 ,have a notch cut in the edge of the table to let the vise back to where there is bearing surface2 and it is well to have it as far in as convenient1 for the weight will thus be supported more steadily4 ,get a plumber to cut a section of lead pipe about as long as the jaws of the vise1 and have the piece of pipe split and flattened4 ,you can do this yourself if you can handle a saw1 and have one that is suitable for cutting metal2 or a jig saw will do1 and the lead can be flattened on a block with a mallet4 ,screw one of the flattened pieces of lead into the jaws of the vise1 leaving about an inch to project above2 hammer the projecting part over1 and one side of the jaws will have a lead face that can be taken out4 ,do the same with the other piece of lead4 ,replace them both1 and the vise is fitted with a pair of lead jaw faces1 which will be found most useful4 ,the lead being soft1 any small metal object may be held between the jaws without injury1 while if the steel face of the vise came in direct contact with the metal1 a screw for example1 the thread might be bruised2 or if the screw were harder than the vise1 the face of the jaws would be marred4 ,with a work-table1 a vise1 and the bicycle kit1 a very fair beginning may be made1 and any refractory small part handled with ease4 ,even the spindle of the axles of one of the wheels may be screwed in1 and the bearings removed1 while held in this way4 ,the vise will act as a clamp for holding pieces to be polished1 and it is most useful in taking a pedal or other small parts down4 ,above the table should be a tool-rack1 three feet of board ten or twelve inches wide1 with a ledge or shelf nailed along the lower edge1 and a strip of leather or some stiff and pliable material nailed on in loops to hold the tools4 ,under the table should be kept a couple of boxes--wooden boxes such as canned goods come in will do--one as a receptacle for oil-cans1 kerosene1 and cloths1 and the other to use as a frame4 ,the outfit should be completed by a little bench1 and a wooden stool to sit on when working at the table2 for much of the work about a bicycle may be done while seated comfortably1 and it is always well to save strength when possible4 ,a workshop once started1 many little contrivances suggest themselves for convenient working1--a nail must be put up for the apron1 a corner found for the working gloves1 separate places allotted for oily cloths and clean ones and for the kerosene4 ,the bicycle lamp1 if an oil-lamp1 should have a stand for trimming and filling1 and should be cared for regularly2 the best of lamps will smoke occasionally1 and the soot must not be allowed to fly about4 ,from fitting up a bicycle workshop1 the transition is easy to studying accomplishments that may be of use--planning tours and trips1 exercising scientifically to prepare to enjoy them1 studying the construction and improvement of modern contrivances1 learning the use of map and compass1 investigating camping possibilities1 and learning how to depend on limited resources when cut off from supplies4 ,the simple appliances and contrivances of the home workshop lead the mind to appreciation and desire for something better1 more workmanlike4 ,a choice of tools suggests itself2 and from the first assortment of a couple of wrenches1 a few screw-drivers1 a hammer1 and a couple of wooden boxes1 is finally evolved the well-furnished amateur workshop4 ,the ideal room for this purpose should have a good north light1 with windows on two sides if possible1 and high enough from the floor to allow a work-bench to be placed in front of the window with the light falling upon it1 and a space of ten inches or a foot between the lowest part of the window and the bench2 this space to be arranged as a rack for tools4 ,the windows should open and shut easily1 and be fitted with two kinds of shades1 dark green and white1 two pairs of shades to each window1 two rolling up from the lower part1 and two down from the upper part4 ,nothing is so fatiguing as working by light not suited to the work to be done4 ,with shades arranged in this way1 light may be perfectly controlled1 and distributed where needed by means of reflectors4 ,ventilating and heating1 also1 must be arranged for4 ,the workshop should have running water1 and a closet for working clothes1 which are apt to be oily or greasy4 ,there should be plenty of shelf-room1 and an extra cupboard or two4 ,the floor should be of wood1 unpainted4 ,there should be a bench for carpenter work and carpenter tools2 a bench for cabinet-working tools for fine wood-working2 a table for rubber and naphtha2 and a long1 heavy1 narrow bench fitted with vises of different sizes and patterns2 a table devoted to the blast furnace1 a corner for an anvil and portable forge and another for a lathe and power-saw1 though these may be dispensed with4 ,the movable furniture may consist of stools and benches of different heights1 and the frames necessary to take down and handle a bicycle on4 ,metal can be bent1 twisted1 cut1 pressed1 elongated1 sawed1 stretched1 and melted into any shape desired4 ,the tools adapted to this work may consist of holding tools1 carving tools1 molding tools1 and bending tools2 and contrivances and tools made to perform certain work1 as screw-driver1 etc4 ,cutting tools are knives1 saws1 files1 and chisels1 which perform their work by applied power1 whether controlled directly by the hand or otherwise4 ,the metal-working outfit may contain many varieties of tools4 ,,chapter ,,xvii4 ,tires4 ,in the older forms of wheel1 the tire did duty in protecting and strengthening the wheel and holding it together4 ,in the bicycle wheel1 the rim is the strengthening and supporting contrivance4 ,the tire protects the rim1 and acts as a spring cushion as well1 receiving shock and jar4 ,the solid rubber tire was an advance over the old steel tire on the bone-shaking machine1 as it was called1 in the days when the bicycle was still in its experimental stage4 ,the solid tire was narrow1 and after a certain diameter of material was reached1 the weight of rubber became too great if the tire was made larger4 ,it was found that a certain thickness of material was sufficient for wear and tear and that more surface was desired to grip the roadway1 and that consequently the tire should be made lighter4 ,hose-pipe was tried1 and did well2 and then experiment succeeded experiment in the effort to produce a tire that would fit1 wear well1 be light1 and give speed and resiliance4 ,a pneumatic tire is made of a tough1 hard outer material to resist wear1 a fibrous inner material to give stiffness and prevent stretching1 and an impervious inner layer to retain the air4 ,rubber is a sticky1 gummy substance1 easily melted at a comparatively low temperature1 and becoming hard when exposed to the air and moderately low temperature2 it dissolves readily in benzine or gasoline or naphtha1 and is insoluble in water4 ,grease and oil have a peculiar disintegrating effect on rubber and rubber materials1 and are most injurious to them4 ,to prevent rubber substances from adhering to each other1 they are prepared in a particular way1 and feel dry and gritty to the touch4 ,tires are made in layers1 and double-tube tires have a separate inner tube of impervious rubber to hold the air1 and an outer covering of toughened material1 that is quite separate and not necessarily air-tight1 to resist wear4 ,the tire must be held immovable on the rim of the wheel4 ,there is all the pull of the weight of the moving bicycle against the surface over which it moves1 and the tire must be secured to the rim in such a way as to keep it forced in place4 ,there are two methods of fastening it permanently to the rim1--with cement or other material of that character1 so as to make it a part of the rim1 as it were2 and by clamping it fast4 ,a cemented tire1 or indeed any tire of rubber1 should never be left in the sun1 as the heat affects the rubber and perhaps the cement4 ,changes of temperature affect different materials in different degrees1 and the different materials expand and contract1 working loose from each other until something gives way1 with apparently inexplicable results4 ,when two or more different materials are used in construction in this way1 this problem will always present itself4 ,the tire inflated1 the impervious inner covering of the tire tube1 which is made of a soft and yielding substance1 fills the interstices in the outer covering1 rendering it air-tight4 ,should a hard substance then be introduced into this material1 and a puncture occur1 it is necessary to locate the puncture4 ,this is very difficult to do if the puncture is small1 and the substance that made the hole has been removed4 ,ascertain first that the trouble is not with the valve of the tire if the air is not retained properly4 ,then test for puncture in this way4 ,wet the surface of the tire1 and note the bubbles that form under the film of water1 and the puncture is found4 ,the inner surface tire is made to resist the air1 and is usually of pure rubber4 ,the outer covering is for strength and wear4 ,rubber may be repaired with rubber easily enough1 and the purer the rubber1 the easier it is to cement it with a cement made of pure rubber dissolved in a volatile vehicle4 ,almost any repair or renovation of the tire may be accomplished with rubber material1 rubber cement to be used for plugging1 and twine or cotton cloth to be used for strengthening purposes4 ,small punctures require only plugging from the inside2 tears and rents require plugging and reinforcing as well4 ,each make of tire has its repair-kit and directions for use4 ,the single-tube tire1 with its inner coat1 is so made that the inner covering will act as a continuous plug4 ,the soft rubber is compressed1 and put on in such a way that the air pressure1 even if a puncture occurs1 will help to close the hole by pressing on all sides around and about it4 ,to illustrate this principle1 cover the outside of the tube with soft rubber cement1 and let it dry4 ,then turn the tube inside out4 ,the rubber will be in an active state of compression4 ,force air against the surface1 and it is easily seen how the rubber is crowded if there is any place made by puncture1 and how the hole would be closed4 ,numberless punctures are made and resealed1 and the tire works all right4 ,the puncture that does not reseal must be plugged or patched4 ,rubber plugs are made in all sizes2 and rubber cement1 liquid rubber1 is put up in collapsible metal tubes1 like paint-tubes1 with a pointed spout to introduce the cement behind and through the puncture4 ,there are numberless convenient contrivances made to hold plugs1 enlarge holes1 and to do the repair work neatly4 ,in mending a puncture1 the tire remains on the wheel1 and the work is done from the outside of the tire4 ,if the hole is very small1 it must be enlarged sufficiently to introduce the plug4 ,the rubber of the plug is very soft and compressible1 and the hole should be considerably smaller than the shank of the plug4 ,the plug must be held firmly1 and forced through the hole1 and held in place while the nose of the cement-tube is introduced1 and a plentiful supply of liquid rubber smeared over the inside of the hole around and on the plug1 and enough extra cement added to flow all about the inside of the tire around the puncture4 ,pull the plug back by the shank1 allowing the head to rest on the inside of the tire1 and the shank to come back through the hole4 ,pull the plug firmly into place by the shank1 which should fit the hole very tight4 ,cut off the projecting end of the plug shank1 and the repair is made4 ,turn the wheel until the plug comes to the lowest point1 and keep it there until the cement gets around the plug4 ,to smooth a ragged hole before introducing the plug1 when the proper tools are not to be had1 a heated wire may be used to make a round smooth hole4 ,rubber may be handled and cut while wet with water1 but must be dry and free from grease to take cement4 ,always wet the knife-blade before cutting the end off the plug2 this will ensure a smooth1 clean cut4 ,a puncture may be repaired by introducing almost any material on the inner surface1 and holding it in place2 and it is well to know of a few substitutes for the regular repair-kit for emergency use4 ,punctures difficult to locate may be found by inflating the tire and wetting with soapy water1 when a bubble will form where the air escapes4 ,a puncture that goes all the way through the inner tube of the tire must be repaired on the inside4 ,the outer covering of the tire is porous1 and if the hole is plugged or patched on the outside1 the air will escape in other directions through the material of the tire4 ,failing the repair-kit tools1 a rubber plug1 some liquid cement1 a piece of string1 and a pair of pliers will do good work4 ,tie the string to the plug to keep it from slipping1 apply plenty of cement to the plug1 then grasp it with the pliers1 and introduce it through the hole prepared for it in the tire4 ,pull the string to pull the plug into place1 see that there is plenty of cement around and about it1 inflate the tire1 and the air will hold the plug in place until the cement hardens4 ,the plugs that are supplied are disks of rubber of different sizes1 with stems attached to the centre1 and a nice tool is made for the purpose of punching the hole in the tire4 ,when a hole is burned1 the charred edges should be removed1 and if possible cleaned with benzine4 ,a tire well patched on the inside is almost as good as new1 and very serviceable1 unless the brake is applied frequently and unevenly1 when the plug is almost sure to feel the push4 ,the commercial patch or plug makes the most satisfactory repair for a puncture1 although there are other things that may be used4 ,rubber bands may be pressed into service1 and sheet rubber also may be used4 ,repair on the roadside is made in the same way as repair in the workshop1 the differences being in the conveniences for working and the permanency of the patch4 ,a rent may be repaired with plugs1 it being first stitched together1 then the plugs introduced1 and finally a patch cemented on the outside over the rent to protect the stitches4 ,a puncture may be repaired with rubber bands held in place on a wire1 covered with cement1 and forced into the hole made in the tire4 ,a piece of wire flattened on the end1 a cross piece with a notch cut in it and twisted below1 makes a fair repair needle4 ,the end of the projecting rubber cut off1 a very fair plug results4 ,sheet rubber may be placed over the hole on the inside1 though it is difficult to keep it in place4 ,twisted up and tied into a plug1 or spread into place on the inside1 the difficulty with this repair is that the patch must be held in place until the cement hardens1 and then is liable to work out of place4 ,inner tube tires are repaired with patches of soft rubber4 ,after the puncture is located1 the patch will retain its place by being pressed against the inner surface of the tire when inflated4 ,to do good work in repairing rubber1 always clean the surface of the rubber material thoroughly1 washing with benzine when possible2 and always test a patch when finished by placing it in water or wetting it1 to ascertain that it is satisfactory4 ,on the road a puncture may be plugged in any time under five minutes when located4 ,in the workshop1 it is more convenient to hang the wheel up while making a patch1 as it is more readily held in place when working from below4 ,there are many ways of doing makeshift repairs4 ,melted rosin may replace the rubber cement1 and rosin may be found at any tinsmith's4 ,melt the rosin1 and dip the rubber in that to make it stick4 ,tire tape may be used in a variety of ways4 ,find the puncture1 cut strips three or four inches long1 and place them lengthwise on the tire1 lapping the edges at least half way over2 then wrap the two thicknesses of tape round and round the tire1 and keep lapping the tape each time over the last turn to hold the edge down1 making it air-tight4 ,well put on1 tire tape will last for many miles4 ,the tire should be partly inflated while the tape is being put on1 and fully inflated when it is all on4 ,force more air into the tire to cause the tape to grip securely4 ,such repair1 though not permanent1 may prove serviceable in emergency4 ,a simple and effective substitute for the rubber plug is absorbent cotton or jeweller's cotton1 well dipped in cement1 and the cement worked into the cotton4 ,quite a large puncture may be repaired with this1 and the hole need not be enlarged or burnt to receive it1 as the soft mass of cotton fills the irregularities in the puncture4 ,it may be introduced into the puncture either with an ordinary repair tool or a piece of twisted wire4 ,the tire is held on the rim by cement made of shellac or some other equally good cementing substance4 ,of course1 in using a cotton plug1 the greatest mass of the cotton should be on the inside of the tire1 leaving a stem in the puncture1 and then the outside ends should be trimmed off4 ,the tire may be readily removed with the hands by pulling at right angles with the wheel4 ,rubber cement may be made by dissolving perfectly pure rubber in naphtha2 but the commercial cement is usually found the cheapest in the end4 ,if you should be so unfortunate as to break down1 what are the problems you must meet8 ,the bicycle is made of different materials--iron1 metal1 steel1 wood1 rubber1 and leather1 and each different material requires a different kind of treatment4 ,the general idea in any kind of repairs is to effect the holding of the parts in position with a material that will supply strength and stiffness4 ,the use of glue or cement is merely to hold parts in position1 to replace the fractured pieces and keep them in place1 to enable the particular part to do its duty1 and to keep the piece in place while the cement hardens4 ,there is room for great ingenuity in handling repair work and in estimating the available resources4 ,the most common accident is a puncture in a pneumatic tire4 ,there are also repairs to be considered to the wooden rims and the spokes and the tubing and lost or broken parts4 ,a great deal of damage could occur in a collision1 and the bicycle be in very poor shape1 but it can be set right with a little assistance from a mechanic1 even though he does not understand the mechanism of a bicycle4 ,suppose nothing to be injured except a piece of the supporting tubing2 or that the bicycle could be made to go if the rim were spliced or strengthened at a place where it has been split4 ,a temporary repair usually takes considerable time1 and should never be attempted unless there is nothing else to be done4 ,a blacksmith shop1 unless the smith is very ingenious1 is not a very good place to look for assistance2 a plumber or tinsmith or locksmith1 unless a bicyclist1 can help but little4 ,for a broken rim ,i would betake me to a carpenter shop or carriage maker's4 ,if the break is in a straight piece of tube1 get the carpenter to make a round stick1 not as long as the broken tube1 and fit it to the inside1 to slip in easily4 ,hardware stores keep round wooden rods1 and perhaps one of these would answer4 ,push the round stick up into the tube1 and1 holding the parts in place1 let it slip down into the other part of the break2 this will keep the ends of the break together4 ,then get the carpenter to take two blocks of wood1 hollow them out to hold the tube1 and screw them fast together1 holding the tube between them4 ,if he has an auger-bit the size of the tubing1 he can easily bore a hole in a block the size of the tube2 then have this block cut in two with the saw1 leaving the hole cut in half1 and screw the pieces together after they are placed on the broken part4 ,the same kind of a repair may be made on the angles of the frame if the blocks are hollowed to fit4 ,this makes an unsightly job1 but can be recommended as strong and safe when properly done4 ,a broken spoke may be repaired1 if it cannot be replaced1 by bending the ends of the broken parts into loops2 then1 taking a piece of wire through both loops1 fasten it together1 and tighten by screwing it up4 ,a wooden rim may be whipped or wound4 ,the tire must be deflated first1 and removed from the rim at the broken place2 then wind fine wire or fish-line about the place1 after filling the break with glue or shellac4 ,in wrapping1 take care that the turns are made very smooth and even1 and close to each other4 ,then the tire may be cemented and inflated4 ,of course1 there will be a lumpy place on the rim1 but it will do until the rim can be replaced4 ,any bolt that has lost its nut1 when the nut cannot be replaced1 may be held by hammering a burr on the end4 ,if the end is too long1 a piece may be cut or filed off1 and a burr hammered down to hold4 ,a bicycle cannot travel easily if the frame has been bent out of true2 and to straighten a bent frame is an easy matter4 ,take out wheels1 saddle1 and handle-bars1 and use a piece of broom-handle to spring the frame into true2 or take a stout cord1 fasten it to either end of the part to be straightened1 insert a stick1 and wind the cord up tight4 ,there are three things to take into consideration when doing repair work3 ,first1 finding out what is to be done1 then doing it1 then seeing that it has been done right4 ,,chapter ,,xviii4 ,mechanics of ,bicycling4 ,all applied mechanical power is the application of lever movement 7and lever movement is but the effect of applied power71 either simple1 compound1 or complex4 ,in the bicycle propelled by human power1 we have a series of lever movements1 initiated and executed by the highest and most effective mechanism known--the human body1 applied human power4 ,there is the seat of power1 the point of application1 and the object4 ,the bicycle or object is so constructed that it continues the application of power applied4 ,the lever is described as 8a bar or other rigid instrument having a fixed point for the exercise of power and the application of power to the object to be moved40 ,the series of lever movements in the human body is the most wonderful known4 ,there are three varieties of levers1 of three different degrees of efficiency1 known as levers of the first1 second1 and third classes1 or orders1 of levers4 ,in the lever of the first class1 the fulcrum is between the weight and the power3 ,p ,f ,w4 ,in the lever of the second class the fulcrum is opposite to the power3 ,p ,w 4 ,f ,in the lever of the third class the fulcrum is opposite to the weight3 ,p ,w4 ,f ,these different powers of levers are used in combination1 and produce a great variety of power effects and applications4 ,other factors to note are3 ,that a body in motion persists in maintaining its direction unless other forces intervene4 ,that the gyroscope overcomes the force of gravity while rapidly revolving4 ,that a body set in motion tends to move in a straight line4 ,that the centre of gravity must be maintained by balance if disturbed or shifted4 ,that force is the cause of a change in the velocity or direction of motion of a body4 ,that all alterations of velocity take place gradually and continuously4 ,that centripetal force and centrifugal force are force directed by radial action4 ,that the air offers resistance1 which increases when the air is in motion4 ,that friction offers resistance to power4 ,that the smaller the surface presented1 the less friction there is to resist4 ,that resistance must be overcome by power expended for the purpose4 ,that the base of the bicycle is practically without width1 and is usually about from forty-two to forty-four inches long4 ,that the direction of the base may be changed at will within certain limits4 ,that the bicycle will fall unless prevented from doing so4 ,that to prevent a bicycle from falling1 or to maintain a bicycle on its base1 it is necessary to balance it4 ,that the constant effort to maintain the bicycle upright upon its base is on account of the motion of the different opposing forces4 ,the bicycle is constructed to overcome the resisting forces in different ways1 supplying as many forces as can be made available to accomplish a particular purpose1 permitting a certain choice and discrimination in the matter4 ,the bicycle has one weight-carrying wheel and a frame and a pivoted wheel4 ,the driving power is applied to the weight-carrying wheel1 and the steering is done with the pivoted wheel4 ,the bicycle remains upright because several forces co-operate to enable it to maintain its plane1 change direction1 and overcome certain resisting and opposing forces4 ,a bicyclist is propelled at a sufficient velocity to maintain the plane of movement4 ,by altering the centre of gravity1 inclining one way or the other1 change of direction may be made4 ,the front or guiding wheel of the bicycle1 being controlled by the different angles of resistance it presents to the surface it rotates upon1 and not being immovably fixed1 can pivot to a plane corresponding to a plane of least resistance4 ,after a little momentum is attained1 a bicycle will maintain its speed with but little assistance of power1 unless it is accidentally obstructed1 or an increase of grade requires an increase of power4 ,the frame of a bicycle is a compound lever1 combining the second and third orders4 ,the wheels are a compound lever of the second and third orders4 ,the fork and handles a lever of the second order4 ,the forks and handle-bars are set at an angle with the front wheel1 thus conveying the touch on the ground or other surface to the pivot head and the hands4 ,a moving body tends to pursue its direction4 ,a wheel loses its power to change its direction after passing the point of friction4 ,with the forks at this angle1 the blow is felt1 and change of direction caused by an obstacle conveyed2 but the wheel has still some power to maintain its plane from friction1 and is steadied by its head4 ,the motion of swaying is conveyed and overcome at the tire base4 ,if the pivot were directly over the tire base1 the swing would be given to the wheel2 and the tire1 having passed its point of friction1 would continue to swing4 ,if the head were pivoted on a point1 there would be no side friction on the rim2 because it is pivoted at an incline1 the friction base is increased in proportion1 and the wheel1 steadied in itself1 is easily controlled by an increased line of friction or by prolonging the time from the point of contact4 ,a body in motion persists in maintaining its plane of motion unless additional forces intervene4 ,the occurrence of these forces is detrimental and frequent1 requiring a continuous swing of the guiding wheel either by the hands or by balance4 ,the direction of the base line is continually changed1 as it were1 broadening the base line4 ,the weight must incline with the front wheel1 and the front wheel will support it4 ,if inclined away from the direction of the front wheel1 the weight becomes the long arm of the lever1 exerting weight against weight at the base of the bicycle1 there being no opposing force4 ,the front wheel being turned away1 the bicycle falls or slips over4 ,with the fork at this angle the wheel is inclined1 the frame held on the wheel at this angle1 as the wheel is turned sideways1 it gradually brings the centre directly over the axles1 raising the front end of the frame up4 ,this pressure or leverage from the frame tends to keep the wheel straight in the line of least resistance4 ,in turning1 the wheel must lift the weight1 and push it up2 and this factor greatly adds to the steadiness of direction4 ,a bicycle with the steering wheel held fast will maintain its plane so long as its momentum is not overcome4 ,with the steering wheel the plane of movement may be regained after each opposition1 provided the proportionate amount of power is expended4 ,the radius of a wheel is the long arm of a lever2 the pedal crank is the short arm of the lever1 though its length may exceed that of the radius of the wheel4 ,power and speed are interchangeable4 ,the shorter the arm of the crank1 the greater the weight required to balance the long arm at the rim of the wheel 7an imaginary line74 ,if the pedal crank is lengthened1 it will require less power to move it4 ,at the same time the foot1 following the crank1 describes a larger circle for the distance travelled by the rear wheel4 ,the crank lengthened1 the power is diminished1 demanding increased exertion to follow it1 the foot travelling at a rate determined by the distance to be traversed4 ,when the hub rests on the axle of the wheel1 there is considerable friction to overcome in the entire length of the hub1 the friction1 or ability of the wheel to turn1 depending on the amount of axle surface4 ,the axle1 therefore1 becomes heated when the air cannot readily reach the surface to convey away the heat generated by friction4 ,weight may be balanced and supported on a point2 when weight rests on a sphere1 only a point supports weight4 ,by surrounding the axle with balls1 the weight is taken from point to point on each ball1 and a circulation of air allowed4 ,the weight1 carried from ball to ball1 gives the advantage of a larger cooling surface in a confined space1 while the weight and friction are applied directly to a very limited area4 ,each ball is also an axle in itself1 and carries the weight1 and passes it on to the next ball4 ,the balls act as lubricators1 preventing the moving surfaces from contact4 ,the problem of speed produced by power means that speed is obtained at the expense of power expended4 ,the relative size of the sprocket-wheels determines the relative speed of the cranks and rear wheel4 ,to get the greatest speed with the least power possible means diminished friction and lessened weight4 ,the band or chain complies mechanically with these requirements1 permitting a certain amount of play1 which lessens the danger of sudden strains and jars1 and supplies the power to the rear wheel with the least possible loss by friction4 ,gear #fc #gb #gf #hj #f crank proportion #d to #a to #a #e to #a #f to #a #h crank proportion #c to #a #dd to #a #cc to #a #e to #a #f crank pressure #d4he #e4ed #e4he #f4ae #h crank pressure #c4cg #c4hd #d4e #e4jj #f crank ground covered by large wheel #af ft4 #ai ft4 #bj ft4 #ba ft4 #h crank ground covered by large wheel #af ft4 #ai ft4 #bj ft4 #ba ft4 #f crank ground covered by pedal #dj4hd inches #h crank ground covered by pedal #ej4bf inches 8,scientific ,american ,supplement1 ,no4 #ajbe10 ,august #bd1 #ahie4 ,rating wheel by the amount of progression for each turn of the crank 7pedal71 the following table1 compiled by ,henry ,starkweather1 will be found of advantage3 ,no4 teeth in #bf in4 wheel4 large ,sprocket4 ,no4 teeth in small sprocket4 #f #g #h #i #ah #bj ft #ag ft #ae ft #ac ft #ai #ba ft #ah ft #af ft #ad ft #bj #bb ft #ai ft #ag ft #ae ft #bh inch wheel4 #ah #bb ft #ai ft #af ft #ad ft #ai #bc ft #bj ft #ag ft #ae ft #bj #bd ft #ba ft #ah ft #af ft ,the following table1 from the ,new ,york ,evening ,post1 shows the gear according to the number of teeth on large and small sprocket-wheels3 ,sprockets #bh in4 wheel on pedal crank4 ,sprockets on rear wheel4 #g #h #i #ag #fh #ei #ec #ah #gb #fc #ef #ai #gf #ff #ei #bj #hj #gj #fb #ba #hd #gc #fe ,,chapter ,,xix4 ,adjustment4 ,in bicycling1 the word 8adjustment0 means much1 for the movable parts of the bicycle must be adjusted to suit the requirements of the individual bicyclist1 and the mechanical parts of the bicycle's construction adjusted so that they will work together properly4 ,in a machine properly adjusted1 the chain and other gear should run smoothly1 the chain be neither too tight nor too loose1 and the sprocket-wheels exactly in line4 ,the bicycle wheels should run true and be exactly in line with the frame1 and the rear wheel follow the identical plane of the front wheel when in place4 ,the frame should be true and square at all points1 and should be examined and tested always after the machine has been travelling by rail or has had a fall4 ,the bearings in all parts of the machine should have their cone-caps in place and so screwed and keyed that the balls run easily without perceptible play4 ,nuts and washers should all be in place and screwed home4 ,the handle-bar should be tight and square with the front wheel1 but only tight enough to turn the wheel on a good surface1 not so tight as to prevent it from turning easily if the wheel is caught or held4 ,the proper adjustment for position has to do with the frame1 wheel-base1 length of crank1 height and position of saddle2 the curve1 width1 height1 and general adjustment of the handle-bar2 the size and number of teeth on the sprocket-wheels1 which determines the gear2 and the weight1 construction1 and inflation of the tire4 ,the saddle is one of the most important1 if not the most important1 part of the bicycle to study1 as it should provide the fulcrum to work from4 ,any saddle may be adjusted to be comfortable1 but saddles seldom remain comfortable after being adjusted4 ,the saddle should be hard enough to act as a fulcrum and should not give or spring under work1 for power is lost on each stroke that presses down on a soft saddle2 it should also permit of change of position without readjustment1 unless it is intended for racing purposes1 for the bicyclist should be able to speed1 climb1 or coast on a saddle properly constructed for general purposes4 ,each of these different kinds of bicycle work requires a different application of muscular power1 and the saddle should permit of a readjustment of position that will at least accommodate the altered tendency caused by a shifted centre of gravity in grade work4 ,every individual is differently proportioned1 with differing lever lengths and lever power4 ,if people differently proportioned find the same adjustment possible1 it would be for the reason1 not that their different requirements average the same1 but that the average of their different requirements is the same4 ,a higher gear means greater resistance2 a lengthened crank causes the foot to travel in a larger circle while gaining in increased leverage in the lengthened arm4 ,in determining the proper proportion of crank length and gear1 it may be calculated that the same amount of resistance may be overcome by using a higher gear and longer crank as by using a lower gear and shorter crank1 the difference being in the rapidity of the stroke necessary to cover a given distance in a certain length of time4 ,this adjustment may be considered equivalent to length of pace and rapidity of pace in walking4 ,it is well to have crank and gear selected by some one sufficiently experienced to make an intelligent choice4 ,in the lever action of the leg1 working the bicycle crank1 care should be taken to prevent waste of power in carrying the foot back and behind1 rendering the lever movement useless behind the line where the power may be made to tell4 ,this loss will occur when the saddle is placed too far forward4 ,the foot in returning should supply the pull1 and lift with a push-back4 ,the power here gained cannot compensate for power lost on the forward and down thrust1 and the saddle should be placed far enough back to permit of the full power of the forward push and downward thrust4 ,the knee should never fully extend when the pedal is pushed to the point where it is furthest from you1 for if it is1 there is danger in hill-climbing of straining the knee as well as the tendons and muscles of the back of the leg4 ,the handle-bars should be adapted to the work to be done1 whether racing1 touring1 or ordinary4 ,they certainly should not be high enough to prevent them from taking part of the weight of the body1 nor so low as to cramp any portion of the trunk4 ,fatigue1 with its various manifestations1 cramp1 stiffness1 and numbness1 comes from too long a period of work without change of position4 ,for this reason different muscular combinations should be called to do the same work1 or different work should be done with unused muscular combinations1 permitting rest or partial rest to muscles that have been taxed4 ,a bicycle should be fitted with adjustable handle-bar and saddle-post1 and in case of fatigue or cramp1 a slight change in the adjustment will reduce the tendency at once4 ,travelling should be done with as little weight on the saddle as possible1 working on the pedals and resting on the handles4 ,but when it comes to climbing1 the push must be located from a fulcrum1 and that fulcrum must be the saddle4 ,all weight must be removed from the handles1 and the wheel ridden by balance4 ,a hill should be coasted with the weight all on the saddle1 the feet supported1 and the handles held firmly and lightly1 a proper average position for continuous work being1 however1 maintained4 ,to carry weight forward1 the weight should be forward of the centre of gravity1 and the hands dropped4 ,the question of handle-bars1 with the reason of their many varying curves1 may pertinently be discussed here4 ,the bar is a pair of levers finding a common fulcrum in the head or centre bar1 and the difference in curve has to do with the distribution of weight and the touch best suited to control the bicycle according to position and individual balance and lever power4 ,a distribution of weight and leverage may be made without altering the wheel base by the use of a different pattern of bar that seems to suit the individual touch4 ,to analyze the curves in a handle-bar1 and their different lever values1 would be difficult4 ,preference has much to do with it1 and this may be accounted for by the different steering touch of the differently adjusted bars4 ,the forward drop should never be so great that the face cannot be lifted easily and the eyes always able to see up and ahead4 ,in the tire we look for elasticity1 and the amount of air it contains has much to do with the comfort of the rider and the speed of the wheel4 ,soft tires are adapted for a rough or stony road4 ,the soft tire may wear out a little sooner1 but the extra wear is fully compensated by the gain in lessened shock and apparent improvement of wheeling surface4 ,a very hard tire is not necessarily made of rubber4 ,the advantage of the rubber tire is its elasticity1 which should come between the fulcrum and the power4 ,to attain a proper position and its equivalent adjustment1 first have the saddle as nearly right as possible so that you can work comfortably2 then have the handles and the height of the bar tested1 working on these until you can determine if the saddle is too far forward or too far back4 ,then change the height of the bars to suit the saddle4 ,next attend to gear4 ,find if with comfort you could exert more pressure on the pedals4 ,if so1 have the gear increased4 ,if there is cramp in the foot1 or the foot feels strained1 have the length of crank changed4 ,if the foot is long in proportion to the other lever lengths1 lengthen the crank to permit of freer instep play2 or have it shortened to relieve a strained feeling in the foot4 ,the crank length may be changed to relieve either cramp or strain in the leg and thigh until the pressure and length are arranged to suit the natural step or pace4 ,while these adjustments are in progress--and it may take months to determine them--the shoe may cause discomfort4 ,the slightest pressure1 a shoe too tight or ill-fitting1 would be responsible for much more discomfort than could possibly be caused by either crank or gear4 ,waist-bands1 or any pressure on the trunk1 will cause numbness of the foot2 and a saddle of imperfect construction or wrong adjustment would be responsible for the same evils--unequal pressure and unequal strains and overcharged blood-vessels1 with their accompanying discomforts of cramp1 fatigue1 numbness1 and more permanent disorders4 ,,chapter ,,xx4 ,exercise4 ,how shall be determined the proper amount of exercise for any individual8 ,the human body is constructed for use1 and will suffer from want of use1 rust out1 as it were2 and it will suffer from over-use if any one set of muscles or any one supply of nerve power is overtaxed4 ,exercise1 in some form1 is necessary for every one2 work is necessary2 recreation is necessary4 ,rest is to recreate1 to renew4 ,the food that we eat is digested and made into blood2 the blood flows through the system of tissues1 depositing building material and taking up waste matter4 ,the arterial system1 physiologists tell us1 supplies the new material2 the venous system takes up the waste material1 returning the blood to the heart1 after which the fresh air comes in contact with the blood in the lungs1 and is aerated and oxygenated1 and waste material given off4 ,the heart pumps the blood through the arterial and venous systems4 ,when we move or work1 more blood is needed1 and the heart pumps harder4 ,when little or no exercise is taken1 the heart loses its vigor from want of use2 and it may be strained if overtaxed4 ,brain power and nerve power depend on the blood supply for renewal of their tissue4 ,any organ or any combination of organs and muscles1 when exercised1 give off their accumulated material1 and then1 after a limit of assimilation is reached1 the products are reabsorbed4 ,the materials properly accumulate only when needed4 ,these facts bring to our notice three conditions--a condition of atrophy1 or too little use2 a perfect condition of equilibrium of forces2 and a condition of strain from over-work4 ,in the condition of equilibrium or perfect health1 the brain is active and the muscular tissue under perfect control4 ,the mind can receive impressions1 and can convey them at will2 and the muscles obey without difficulty and without fatigue1 because of the great existing power of resistance4 ,on the power to resist fatigue depends the power of prolonging exertion4 ,in exercising we exert our powers1 and if from lack of use or other cause our amount of stored energy is small1 exercise for even a very short period will produce a condition which makes rest absolutely necessary4 ,muscles must be gradually accustomed to work2 and if work is prolonged beyond the point where exercise is beneficial1 a state of tension and exhaustion ensues which can be remedied only by rest prolonged enough to allow the system to recuperate4 ,where the tissues1 from disuse1 have come to have little resistance value1 a very gradual and persistent course of exercise must be determined upon1 for unaccustomed muscles are quickly fatigued1 and the subsequent rest they require may seem out of proportion to the work done4 ,this condition of affairs is discouraging when not understood2 yet there can be no different result except in degree2 and in degree must the condition be changed and the tissues gradually renewed4 ,if there is but little power stored1 only little may be used until the power of assimilation is established4 ,the thin woman is benefited by bicycling2 the liver works better1 the food digests better4 ,the stout woman is benefited1 for the exercise hardens and condenses the flesh4 ,the average healthy woman is kept in the best of health by the exercise and plenty of pure1 fresh air4 ,for the sedentary1 the undeveloped1 and the insufficiently nourished1 the bicycle seems to work wonders4 ,all the powers are accelerated and a general renewing of tissues takes place4 ,the organs of digestion are stimulated and do better work1 the appetite improves1 the complexion brightens1 and the mind responds readily4 ,but people of either of these classes should be careful not to prolong exercise until loss of appetite is brought about2 for the exercise should tend to increase1 not to decrease1 the desire for food and power of assimilation4 ,baths should be taken in moderation1 the skin being kept in free1 healthy condition by dry rubs and tepid baths until the system is brought to the state where the cold bath can be used beneficially4 ,the diet should be generous and wholesome1 and care should be taken to avoid food that does not digest easily4 ,sufficient clothing should be worn but not too much1 and all exercise should be avoided that might produce very copious perspiration4 ,only a healthy activity of the skin should be induced1 and plenty of water drunk4 ,do not work nervously4 ,go to work gently1 and save your energies to make the wheels go around4 ,a thin person can remain thin and a fat person remain fat while exercising assiduously if the exercise is not properly directed4 ,to overcome fat1 persistent1 systematic1 and regular exercise is needed1 and attention to diet must be considered essential4 ,for the food consumed produces certain results2 and if the system selects and digests most readily the fat-producing elements1 their amount should be curtailed1 and a diet of good working quality chosen4 ,fat is burned in producing heat2 but if the same amount of fat-producing elements are again taken into the system1 the same amount of fat results4 ,the fat-producing tendency must be overcome1 and the fat already accumulated consumed1 until a good healthy average of tissue is produced and maintained4 ,tea and coffee are not foods2 they retard the assimilation of tissue1 and must be eliminated from the diet of the weight-reducer4 ,sugar and starch--the latter when eaten is converted into sugar--are heat-producing foods1 first forming fats which are used as energy-producing material4 ,persons wishing to reduce weight1 therefore1 must manufacture1 not so much fat1 but bone and sinew4 ,to produce these1 nitrogenous foods must be eaten4 ,fat consists largely of water2 and heavy work1 like hill-climbing1 which induces free perspiration1 is desirable4 ,but any one wishing to seriously undertake weight-reduction should learn to enjoy bicycling for itself before attempting this application of the exercise4 ,excess of fat produces physical laziness1 which is hard to overcome2 and stout persons1 after exercise1 crave fat-producing elements of food to reduce the tissue consumed4 ,a taste seems to develop for sweet stuff and mild stimulants1 and it is difficult to refrain from indulging it4 ,stout people are apt to believe1 also1 that they cannot endure exercise4 ,they cannot comfortably1 and must work with care until they are in a fair state of balance1 where exercise ceases to fatigue1 before attempting anything like scientific weight-reducing4 ,sufficient exercise regularly taken1 proper diet persistently selected1 will finally have the desired effect4 ,exercise sufficiently to produce good1 thorough perspiration2 take a bath and rub down1 and put on fresh clothing2 avoid tea and coffee1 sugar and ice cream1 dessert and pastry4 ,for those in health and in the habit of exercising regularly1 there are only the dangers of the sport to avoid while enjoying its pleasures and benefits4 ,,chapter ,,xxi4 ,training4 ,if you intend a fifty-mile or a week's trip awheel1 it will be very necessary to accustom yourself to the work before attempting a distance you have not yet covered4 ,suppose1 though your muscles are unaccustomed to long-continued exercise1 that you know how to wheel a bicycle and are anxious to go with your friends4 ,they perhaps wheel for an hour or two hours daily1 or for several hours twice a week4 ,they are afraid to take you with them2 and you feel sure that you can go as far as they do1 and at the same rate of speed4 ,you must make your opportunity and prove your ability4 ,suppose you can wheel for half an hour without fatigue4 ,wheel that half-hour every day the weather permits2 know your distance and your road2 and then practise increasing speed1 that is1 do your distance in less than the half-hour without hurry4 ,start slowly1 and keep the pace until you get your breathing apparatus steady2 then ride faster1 and maintain that pace2 and so on1 in increasing ratio4 ,if you have been in the habit of covering your distance in five minutes under the half-hour1 next time add that distance to your spin1 and do it in your limit time4 ,when you easily do five miles in half an hour on the road1 add a mile or more for the next two or three spins2 then do not wheel for one day2 the next day wheel twice the distance1 wheel eight miles1 and rest a day4 ,then double your distance again4 ,if you cannot do this without feeling the effects seriously1 go back to where you made your greatest distance with ease1 and start from that point again4 ,keep a careful record of your outings1 dates1 wind1 sun1 time of day1 and humidity4 ,the latter is very important1 for on a hot1 dry day1 greater distance can be done with safety than when evaporation is slow4 ,consider all the conditions when you find that you are fatigued1 and decide if the trouble is with yourself or with the weather4 ,do not start for at least an hour after eating1 and always rest after exercise before taking a meal4 ,observing these directions1 you will soon find that you are making very fair progress1 that your confidence is assured1 and that you have acquired a certain amount of endurance1 and can attempt any reasonable distance4 ,exercise transforms1 making the inactive capable of performing work and of enjoying opportunities for using their newly discovered powers4 ,the weak are strengthened2 the strong retain and renew their stores of strength2 the young are symmetrically developed1 and the older remain supple and active4 ,exercise preserves and develops all parts of the organism that are capable of performing work4 ,exercise is work1 muscular work2 and in working the muscles1 all the tissues become readjusted1 and all materials and accumulations tending to hinder movement are diminished in quantity and equalized in distribution4 ,ease of movement and a state of muscular inactivity are incompatible4 ,to be active1 one must work2 and the whole organism will respond1 and adjust itself to the conditions imposed by occupation and manner of living4 ,the complicated mechanisms and intricate processes of the human body adapt themselves to required conditions2 it is only necessary to determine what those conditions shall be to produce certain results4 ,it is difficult for some to overcome the tendency to a state of inactivity2 and there are others to whom even the contemplation of repose is distasteful4 ,the physiological effects produced by exercise differ in different individuals1 active persons and those not in the habit of doing muscular work being very differently affected4 ,for exercise1 of whatever kind1 is muscular work1 and 8muscular work tends to modify the nutrition of all motor organs and to give them a structure favorable for the performance of work40 ,all muscular work is done through the contractile power of the muscles4 ,by use the fibres become freed from fat and other accumulations1 the muscles increase in size1 the contractile power becomes greater1 and the impedimenta of fat1 etc41 are removed by the processes that are accelerated by movement4 8,repose causes atrophy of muscular tissue10 and the necessary discernment and powers of discrimination must be cultivated to avoid a tendency either in the direction of over-doing or of insufficient exercise4 8,the effect of muscular exercise is to render vital combustion more active2 it causes more active processes of assimilation40 8,muscular education leads to an economy of forces4 ,practice leads to a diminution of muscular expenditure0--more work done for power expended4 ,for the power to perform work depends on knowing how to do it properly4 ,real strength lies1 not so much in the mass of muscular tissue as in the ability to use it4 8,exercise of strength demands the simultaneous action of a great number of muscles40 8,exercise of speed involves repetition of movement and the application of nervous energy40 8,exercises of endurance permit of economy of fatigue10 and are characterized by the necessity of perfect equilibrium between muscular effort and the powers of assimilation of the system4 ,in exercise of strength1 every muscle should bring its whole force into play1 and the bony structure is united by pressure to make a rigid whole4 8,exercises of speed are accompanied by fatigue out of proportion to the mechanical work represented40 8,every movement needs the intervention of a great number of muscles2 each muscle must contract with definite force in order that the whole work may lead to definite movement40 ,co-ordination is the operation of choosing the muscles which shall participate in a certain movement and of regulating the exact quantity of nervous energy necessary to produce the right amount of contraction4 ,automatism is acquired by practice2 and the muscles must be exercised regularly to enable them to respond intuitively4 ,a complicated series of movement can only be acquired gradually1 unless the mind has a large number of muscular combinations at command4 8,exhaustion will result from overwork even when well fed40 8,exercises of endurance do not disturb the working of the organs2 while increasing their activity1 it gives to the system the power to repair wasted tissue1 even during work40 ,carbonic acid is not formed in excess1 and is eliminated without producing noticeable results4 ,the bicyclist1 even though indulging moderately in the pastime1 must consider these things1 and determine the course to be pursued2 otherwise the exercise will prove a bane instead of a blessing4 ,there are principles capable of general or special application2 and there are special laws that may be generalized2 and all may be made to accord with the exercise of bicycling1 but each individual must accept a certain responsibility in the matter4 ,the bicycle having been accepted as a means1 the end sought for can be attained only by its intelligent use and application4 ,one of the many advantages of cycling is that the exercise involved is not limited to the use of any one set of muscles4 ,the legs propel the machine1 the muscles of the trunk engage in balancing the body1 and the arms are employed in steering and controlling the front wheel4 ,all the larger joints are active1 and are made supple as well as strengthened and developed4 ,muscles1 unless directed by mental effort1 are useless4 ,the bones give stiffness1 and act as levers and fulcrums2 the muscles are tools of the mind1 levers wherewith to pull and push the bones into position4 ,precision of movement means economy of expenditure of force1 no more effort being expended than is necessary for the act of the moment4 ,people who hunt for the pedal1 and try for the saddle two or three times1 and fall off because the bicycle fails to start1 work hard enough to have mounted a number of times2 that is1 they have lifted or supported their own weight in different directions a number of times without attaining their object4 ,they appear to be awkward2 they are really unaccustomed to their work4 ,practice will accustom the muscles to the work they have to do4 ,try to do one thing only at a time4 ,if it is mounting1 for instance1 memorize each thing that must be done2 how1 when1 and where to do it4 ,do not think1 because the mind does not at once grasp all that is forced upon its attention1 that your brain is of inferior quality2 it may not be able to adapt itself to that particular mental process at that minute4 ,but the effort made will result in added tissue1 and next time there will be more hope of success4 ,increase by a little at a time the amount of exercise undertaken4 ,you can gauge the practice you need only by the amount of attention you give to the subject4 ,after muscles are once trained to an exercise1 the mind will not readily lose power to reproduce the combination1 and experience begins to help4 ,endurance means well-directed strength as well as capacity of power stored in reserve2 and the aim of all athletic work is to give an increased store of strength1 vitality1 and power to draw upon1 not merely to expend the stock already on hand4 ,the muscular development that comes with bicycle exercise will often cause surprise4 ,in persons unaccustomed to active exercise1 the increase is most noticeable on the chest and forearms1 the chest development increasing two and three inches1 the arm and forearm in proportion1 and the whole muscular system gaining in firmness and tone4 ,persistent bicycling1 prolonged exercise on the wheel1 speed work on the track1 develop disproportionately the muscle of the leg4 ,the track-man1 therefore1 prepares for his season of work1 not by exercising and developing his legs1 but by general exercise and special work that will develop the arms and back and other sets of muscles not called upon for heavy work during the season when he is to do his best4 ,getting up speed1 increasing speed1 and hill-climbing all tend to develop the muscles of the leg1 which in such exercise are called upon for the heavy work of push and thrust1 using a concentrated power to propel4 ,light dumbbell work is recommended as a good alternate for bicycle work and a means of keeping the muscular system in balance4 ,leisure and the weather limit bicycling2 other causes are incidental4 ,the weather1 indeed1 affects bicycling more than any other sport4 ,one of the most imperative needs of bicycling is rapid evaporation1 and conditions that do not permit of that are unfavorable4 ,observe atmospheric conditions1 therefore1 and avoid severe work when the dew point is approached4 ,all the hard work wanted can be accomplished in half an hour after the wheel has been taken out2 or it may be used as a vehicle for travelling steadily hour after hour for days consecutively2 or an invigorating spin of two or three hours may be taken1 regulating the pace and the work4 ,one of the things to know about a bicycle is that you can get almost any kind of work you want out of it4 ,to realize that you are doing the work you have been accustomed to have a horse do for you1 and in a similar way1 and to know that many of a horseman's rules for the care of their working animals may be equally well applied to human beings who do the same work1 is apt1 perhaps1 to cause a sensation of unpleasant surprise4 ,it is a fact1 however1 that there is much information about the care of horses that the cyclist may study and apply with advantage4 ,the bicycle is not an iron horse2 it is more like skates2 is in some things like a boat2 in some like a coasting sled2 and in many ways is different from anything else4 ,it seems alive at times1 as does a boat2 but it is the power propelling it that causes the delusion4 ,the only thing alive about bicycles is the persons who propel them2 and if they are only half alive before attempting to mount1 they will become very alert and keenly appreciative of all that concerns them long before the sport has ceased to be a novelty4 8,exercise is important as a regulator of nutrition40 8,the best athletic exercise for increasing the size of the chest is that which compels the deepest inspiration40 ,the lower limbs1 with their masses of muscular tissue1 are most capable of awakening the respiratory need which is proportioned to the expenditure of force4 ,exercise induces change of shape as well as change of size2 and too much exercise of any one kind will produce a local effect4 ,breathlessness is not the only form of fatigue1 and fats are not the only reserve material4 ,nitrogenous products of combustion1 which cannot be derived from fatty substances1 are produced by work2 and these are stored among the reserve material1 and produce stiffness1 as fat produces breathlessness4 ,in no other sport is the blood sent coursing through the veins in the same way as in bicycling2 and as there is not a very great quantity of that wonderful fluid passing and repassing through the circulatory system1 any obstruction or pressure is instantly felt and provided for4 ,to avoid giving nature unnecessary trouble in providing for interrupted or unequal circulation1 not even a glove that is the least tight should be worn2 indeed1 the covering of head1 hands1 and feet should be carefully selected4 ,and the same precaution should be exercised with regard to all clothing4 ,no tight underwear should be worn1 and nothing like equestrian tights1 which interfere with surface circulation4 ,the waist and lower ribs must be kept free4 ,you should never ride so hard as to allow the air to force the ribs out and in1 so that you cannot control them4 ,it is a good rule not to ride so hard that you cannot hold your breath at pleasure4 ,it is important always to remove perspiration before cooling2 therefore1 take a bath at once on coming in from a ride2 if you cannot do that1 rub off with a dry towel1 or sponge with tepid water1 and rub dry gently2 then put on dry underclothing4 ,the cold bath is most invigorating and refreshing1 and never more refreshing than after bicycle exercise2 but all cannot use it with good results4 ,provide for your change of underclothing before starting out1 and if you do not intend to return1 take it with you4 ,remember always that it is essential to provide an entire covering for the body that will admit of free exhalations1 and warm enough to prevent chilling under all circumstances4 ,while riding1 provided the condensing moisture is allowed to escape1 it is quite possible to feel overheated1 yet the skin must be protected from chill resulting from rapid motion through the air4 ,air pressure and evaporation nearly balance each other1 and the extra heat caused by exertion is tempered by moisture and the constant fanning of rapid locomotion4 ,these effects are most appreciably felt upon halting4 ,if the covering is thin1 of light weight1 and of too hard a texture to admit of quick passage of air and steam1 the garments at once become saturated with moisture1 and a serious chilling follows4 ,even if the halt be but short1 it will be found that an appreciable time passes after remounting before one becomes warm1 and the distaste for work that follows is a sure indication that something is amiss4 ,if energy were preserved1 instead of wasted in warming up after halting1 the benefit of the rest would be felt4 ,a proper porous material should be always worn4 ,with a flannel shirt-waist and woollen sweater1 even in quite warm weather1 riding is not at all uncomfortable2 but substitute a ,holland linen coat for the sweater1 and the rider will be first very warm1 and then very damp indeed and most uncomfortable4 ,nature provides various means for keeping the body at an even temperature1 and it is most essential not to disturb this balance4 ,while working1 heat is generated1 the skin becomes moist1 and a normal temperature is maintained by the rapid evaporation4 ,too little covering means too great evaporation and lowering of temperature2 and even if no chill is experienced1 the too rapid cooling prevents good working results1 and stiffness is apt to set in with fatigue after the day's work1 and a languid1 sleepy feeling on the day following4 ,too much stress cannot be laid on the necessity of being able easily and expeditiously to adjust or redistribute the clothing4 ,flannel is a good non-conductor of heat1 but the bicyclist must use discrimination in selection4 ,too heavy flannel will induce a copious and weakening perspiration2 insufficient clothing will allow the body to be chilled by too rapid evaporation4 ,one of the greatest benefits to be derived from bicycle exercise is the free1 healthy action of the skin that is induced4 ,if this activity is retarded by pressure1 much injury may be done by the holding and reabsorbing of waste matter4 ,this reabsorbed matter1 which is a direct poison and must be worked off again in the complexities of the system1 causes languor and headache and a feeling that exercise is of no benefit1 as indeed it is not if proper hygienic laws are not complied with4 ,while in the open air1 there is little danger to be apprehended from damp clothing1 as oxidation is going on freely4 ,it is under shelter that danger lurks1 where the air does not circulate freely4 ,the underwear should be changed before eating1 or the food will do little good4 ,where you can get shelter1 you can usually find conveniences for making the change2 otherwise1 it is better to eat in the open air4 ,digestion involves muscular action as well as chemical processes4 ,wherever in the system muscular work is being done1 the blood is needed in large quantity to enable the muscular processes to continue4 ,in the process of digestion important chemical work is accomplished by the action of certain juices or secretions of the stomach1 and rhythmical muscular work in the walls and coatings of the stomach is required to regulate their supply4 ,it may be easily understood1 therefore1 that digestion should be properly or rather uninterruptedly accomplished1 and it cannot be thus properly accomplished if too much of the blood supply is called away in the earlier stages of assimilation4 ,active muscular work should never be undertaken immediately after a full meal4 ,the more food there is to be digested1 the more work there is to be done1 the less capable is the rest of the system for severe work4 ,such work1 after eating heavily1 would involve an interruption1 almost a suspension1 of digestive processes1 and a consequent difficulty in the adjustment of the processes involved in muscular work4 ,it would mean a much longer time to get the second wind1 inability to do hard or heavy work1 as well as inability to prolong the work without discomfort4 ,such a course of action must lead to serious complications and derangements of the digestive functions and eventually induce liability to disease4 ,it is very injurious1 also1 to attempt to perform heavy work fasting1 or to prolong the period of exercise when food or rest is required4 ,the human machine requires a certain amount of fuel1 and the supply must be taken at regular intervals1 or reserved material1 which is too valuable to be recklessly expended1 will be consumed4 ,a mixed diet1 with plenty of variety1 is the best to work on1 everything to be thoroughly cooked4 ,three good meals a day1 and no eating between meals2 though1 when tired1 it is not well to work on an empty stomach1 and if you are delayed it is better to eat something while waiting than to go too long without eating4 ,beef and mutton are always good food2 and fresh vegetables1 fruit1 milk and eggs1 and cereals either with cream and sugar or milk and sugar4 ,simple desserts are not harmful1 neither are they necessary4 ,the so-called sustaining power of stimulants merely enables one to burn up reserve tissue1 to use up more fuel1 to produce more power4 ,work done under such conditions is forced work1 like the forced draught of a steam-engine using power to force the air into the furnace4 ,in both cases1 intense heat and great power can be produced1 and corresponding radiation and depression occur while the system is undergoing its processes of restoration4 ,tea1 coffee1 bouillon1 are stimulating1 and good as food accessories2 but they are not good to work on4 ,,chapter ,,xxii4 ,breathlessness2 ,the ,limit ,mechanical4 ,seated awheel1 the bicyclist feels master of the situation4 ,the bicycle obeys the slightest impulse1 moving at will1 almost without conscious effort1 virtually as much a part of the rider1 and as easily under control1 as hand or foot4 ,it is because weight is supported and friction overcome that the bicyclist loses consciousness of effort as he moves1 with seemingly no limit to endurance4 ,a trouble often experienced is breathlessness4 ,for this there are several causes4 ,sometimes the machine is started too hurriedly and before the processes of the body have had time to adjust themselves4 ,to work easily1 the muscles must be heated gradually1 until they are brought to the proper point of tension4 ,again1 the easy movement of the wheel often causes the cyclist to become oblivious of the fact that the muscles are working quickly while doing easy work1 that the power applied is being converted into speed with little appreciable effort1 until suddenly his breath becomes labored1 and a halt must be made for rest4 ,we need not attempt here to give the figures for power expended and work done1 though both factors may be estimated4 ,technically1 effort is a physiological condition involving complicated chemical changes and concentration of power4 ,the work of the lungs is done mechanically1 automatically1 is muscular work1 involving chemical changes and giving chemical results4 ,we breathe in air full of oxygen2 we exhale air loaded with carbonic acid4 ,muscular effort produces carbonic acid through chemical changes in the tissues of the body4 ,the oxygen of the air1 taken into the lungs to purify the blood1 is absorbed and stored4 ,easy muscular movements give off a limited quantity of carbonic acid and other products1 but not more than can be eliminated without readjustment of processes4 ,when a succession of efforts is made1 involving the manufacture of larger quantities of carbonic acid1 the eliminating capacity is correspondingly taxed4 ,in making an effort1 the lungs become momentarily fixed1 and their regular respiratory movement is suspended4 ,carbonic acid is held1 not given off1 and a feeling of suffocation is observed4 ,unless respiration is restored by a pause1 poisoning by the waste products ensues1 they being reabsorbed1 and inducing discomfort and fatigue4 ,working with effort1 the lungs should be free to expand and contract4 ,to this end it is all-important to exhale1 expelling the air from the lungs by compression of the chest after severe exertion4 ,air rushes naturally into the chest cavity2 attention1 therefore1 should be directed1 not to getting in air1 but to expelling the air already in the lungs4 ,this successfully done assists materially in bringing about that desirable condition known as 8second wind10 and gives control over the muscles of the chest1 which enables waste products to be readily eliminated4 8,the intensity of breathlessness during exercise is in direct proportion to the expenditure of force demanded by the exercise in a given time40 ,breathlessness is due to power expended in a limited time4 ,this1 at least1 is one of the inducing causes4 ,on the bicycle1 power is converted into speed4 ,in hill-climbing1 shortness of wind is due not so much to position on the wheel as to the amount of power expended in doing the work4 ,if power is wasted1 the work attempted is usually not accomplished2 if intelligently expended1 the work is done easily and well1 leaving the bicyclist in condition to renew the effort when necessary4 ,hill-climbing is like stair-climbing2 power is expended in a succession of efforts made in raising the weight on an ascending plane4 ,the weight must be lifted1 either pushed up or pulled up1 and the respiratory need is increased4 ,the hill-climber must aim to mount with as little effort as possible and to make the ascent with the minimum expenditure of power4 ,rapidly increased heart-beat is accompanied by deeply inflated lungs and a tendency the bicyclist should guard against to work open-mouthed4 ,here the question of tight clothing comes prominently forward4 ,sitting erect and holding by the handle-bars1 the bicyclist's upper chest muscles are held comparatively fixed or rigid2 the arms1 being used for support1 act as levers holding down the upward expansion of the chest4 ,the air1 being compressed1 is forced laterally and downward4 ,the downward expansion of the chest is checked by the movement of pedaling1 there being a constant upward pressure in the ascending stroke and an increased muscular compression in the descending stroke4 ,with a tight belt1 the breathing is chiefly upward1 and downward when sitting or walking1 the lateral expansion depending on the width and compression of the belt4 ,when working on a bicycle1 with the hands fixed and holding hard1 the upper chest is comparatively rigid1 the muscles below the diaphragm hard at work2 and muscles at work do not admit of compression1 which prevents the diaphragm from moving downward4 ,the diaphragm is a muscular wall1 stretched across the trunk below the lung cavity and near the waist-line4 ,if the lower muscles of the trunk are actively at work1 the diaphragm can be distended but a little way in a downward direction by lung pressure4 ,the air in the lungs1 which are hard at work1 and over-full1 presses against the heart1 and makes harder work for that organ4 ,when the lungs are distended1 any clothing that can be felt about the waist exerts more or less pressure4 ,the lungs of a bicyclist at work are constantly distended1 seldom deflated1 and an equal pressure is exerted in all directions4 ,the diaphragm is forced downward1 pressure comes on the large blood-vessels1 and the legs feel tired as one of the results of the constriction4 ,pressure on the heart and the large blood vessels of the lung cavity causes rush of blood to the head and gives a heated look to the face and a feeling of faintness and headache4 ,the muscles of the waist are elastic1 but lose their elasticity when not in use4 ,fat accumulates1 and is pressed down1 usually below the belt1 causing the muscles of the figure to sag and the trunk to lose its proper lines4 ,compression of the waist while cycling is dangerous1 and will cause enlargement of the hips and distort the lines of the figure below and above the waist4 ,if tight clothing must be worn1 do not wear it while exercising any more than while sleeping4 ,bicycling is a great equalizer of tissue4 ,the system1 when this exercise is moderately indulged1 is freshened as is a city by a heavy rain1 all accumulations and deposits being swept away4 ,there is a difference1 a very great difference1 between muscular fatigue and breathlessness1 and the two conditions should not be confused4 ,breathlessness is general fatigue2 muscular fatigue is fatigue localized4 ,when you are breathless1 all your muscles are tired2 they do not want to work and are indeed incapable of performing work4 ,work performed by the lower limbs causes breathlessness more quickly than any other kind of exertion1 and the bicyclist must bear this fact in mind4 ,the respiratory need is increased in proportion to the amount of carbonic acid in the blood4 ,the lower limbs can perform a great deal of work in a few seconds1 the large masses of muscle in the legs at work throwing large quantities of carbonic acid into the blood to be given off or eliminated by the lungs4 ,each individual has his own limit or pace1 at which he can do work most easily4 ,if this pace is exceeded1 effort follows and increased expenditure of power2 a greater quantity of carbonic acid is produced to be given off2 and fatigue is induced sooner than when working at the pace which can be kept without extraordinary exertion4 ,every bicyclist knows his own natural pace1 and when departing from that must expect to be winded sooner or later4 ,rapid work on the bicycle is similar1 as muscular exertion1 to running1 racing1 speeding1 and sprinting4 ,here we have the time limit1--great speed produced in a short time2 tissue consumed1 and carbonic acid produced in large quantities to be quickly eliminated4 ,increased effort means more power expended4 ,the fixed lung cavity means lessened capacity for increased air-consumption and greatly lessened means of inhaling and expelling air4 ,one of the effects produced by carbonic acid in the blood is a stimulation to increased effort1 which causes a desire to prolong work after reasonable limits have been exceeded1 a feeling that more must be done1 rather than a desire to stop and rest4 ,second wind is the condition produced by the adjustment of the processes of the body to the new state of exertion1 where the heart and lungs balance and work according to the demands of the new condition4 ,a pendulum1 slipped on its spindle and let go1 swings irregularly until it finds its new rhythm4 ,the rhythm that corresponds with its weight1 momentum and length of spindle1 leverage1 is the rhythm of the work4 ,all repeated work has a rhythm1 and the movement disturbed requires a little time for readjustment4 ,the heart and lungs work automatically and rhythmically1 and any new movement disturbs their rhythm1 which must be adjusted for change of occupation or exercise until the balance of the working functions is established4 ,the second wind usually comes after the first fifteen minutes of work4 ,quickly acquired1 it means rapid and easy adjustment of processes1 a quick response to effort1 and little power wasted4 ,though individuals differ in this respect1 a difficulty in getting the second wind1 when exercise has been suspended for a time1 will sometimes be experienced1 and care should be taken not to overwork when taking up an exercise that has been for some time discontinued4 ,when you have had exercise enough1 stop and rest4 ,change of occupation1 turning from active mental work to active muscular work1 has been said to give rest to the mental faculties4 ,though they perhaps do1 in a sense1 experience rest1 it might be unwise to assert that this rest is really recuperative4 ,repeated alternation from active mental exercise to active physical exercise would inevitably result in a state of exhaustion1 in which the reserve fund of energy or strength would be completely consumed4 ,it is a more accurate statement that a certain amount of muscular work1 which will restore the balance of the system1 is a good preparation for rest after active mental exertion4 ,during mental work of any kind1 muscular work must be performed2 for breathing1 seeing1 moving the hands1 require muscular movement4 ,the question1 therefore1 resolves itself into one of degree of work done and equilibrium of forces to be maintained1 rather than one of restoration of one set of faculties by the overtaxing of another set4 ,good muscular work cannot be accomplished without the exercise of brain and will2 therefore1 when the mind is actively employed1 a certain amount of muscular tissue is consumed1 though not enough to maintain the system in a state of bodily activity4 ,for body and mind1 to be in a state of perfect health or equilibrium1 should be equally active4 ,the tissues of the body are constantly renewed1 and the amount of work1 mental or muscular1 that can be accomplished is determined by these constantly renewing processes4 ,the amount of material taken up and stored for use depends upon the amount of material needed2 and this is gauged by the amount of work already done1 and restricted by the amount of work the material is capable of performing4 ,the balance of work and rest1 quantity and quality1 varies with different temperaments4 ,training means nothing more than preparation4 ,for those engaged in active mental occupation it is well to consider if they are giving themselves the best preparation for resisting the fatigue consequent upon their occupation4 ,cycling is a pastime and sport1 and may be a relaxation and the alternate of other athletic exercises4 ,after the machine is under control1 the muscular work becomes virtually automatic2 and for this reason cycling1 in its various forms1 has proved so beneficial as a relaxation4 ,overwork produces the effect of poisoning of the system1 and reduces its power of resistance4 ,this poisoning is produced by the waste products of the system1 which accumulate during work1 as the forces for eliminating them are overtaxed2 and before work can be properly resumed1 the poison must be eliminated from the system1 and the power-producing materials again stored for use4 ,stiffness is a form of fatigue due to an accumulation of deposits in the tissues1 which are best removed by exercising after a period of rest4 ,with their removal1 stiffness disappears1 to return with fresh deposits if exercise is again prolonged4 ,the amount of material not taken up by the system lessens with regular exercise1 and the tendency to stiffness gradually disappears4 ,the only remedy for stiffness is work1 then rest1 then work again4 ,sleep does not always come to the over-tired1 and we may therefore conclude that it is better to be rested before attempting to sleep4 ,a pause1 to be recuperative1 need not be prolonged2 fifteen minutes' rest after exertion should be sufficient2 and during a day's work1 this fifteen minutes' rest between changes of occupation1 not including the quiet necessary for digestion1 will keep one fresh4 ,a pause longer than fifteen minutes prepares or readjusts the processes4 ,do no work1 mental or muscular1 for at least an hour after a meal2 and sleep in a cool--not cold--well-ventilated room4 ,low tension power usually accomplishes its object without waste4 ,work done at high pressure1 that might be done at low pressure1 indicates waste of effort under strain4 ,the intense concentration of effort when the beginner is struggling with a bicycle is made at high pressure4 ,the excitement of the unexpected probably has something to do with this1 as well as the novelty of the situation4 ,if all bicycle work required the same state of tension1 however1 it could not be long endured2 the strain would be too great4 ,there is a certain amount you can do1 or think you can do2 this is one measure of your capacity4 ,the work you do is done by stored energy4 ,how may that energy be applied to give the best results8 ,the intricate workings of the mind we may not attempt to analyze3 what we do1 we do because we wish to1 or because we ought1 or because we must4 ,concentrated effort1 persistent effort1 continuous effort1 all consume force4 ,when you dread anything you have undertaken as too difficult of accomplishment1 just so much more force is required to overcome that idea4 ,if1 mounted on your bicycle1 you wheel along in a state of apprehension1 you induce a high nervous tension that requires a great reserve of power to resist and supply4 ,fear1 or a sense of insecurity1 or a lack of confidence1 produces the same result4 ,a bicycle is run by the direct application of power2 and power diverted is power wasted4 ,in wheeling1 after the invigorating freshness of the exercise has reached a certain point1 the benefit derived lessens with the amount of power drawn from the reserve4 ,bicycle exercise1 moreover1 to be really beneficial1 should be alternated with other exercise4 ,the bicycle freshens and brings into good condition muscles already developed1 but it is an exercise that must be taken with judgment4 ,it is not a panacea for all human ills2 it can be generally beneficial1 or1 immoderately indulged1 may become most harmful4 ,wheeling for long distances should not be undertaken without proper training4 ,for the sedentary1 and for all others tempted by the fascinations of the sport to over-exertion1 caution is most necessary4 ,reaction from over-exertion will bring about a physical condition as detrimental as that caused by lack of exercise--general lassitude and unfitness for work1 if nothing more serious4 ,persons who are naturally timid cannot accomplish in the same time as much as the more courageous1 for their powers are actively at work overcoming their dread of collision and fear of falling2 and the distance covered1 for power expended1 must consequently be less than when no other exertion is required than is needed for propelling the bicycle4 ,learn to work without strain or effort2 practise where fear is not likely to be aroused1 for fear induces a state of tension1 and bicycling cannot be enjoyed or prolonged if this drain of the power-supply is allowed4 ,confidence will come with the knowledge that you are no longer at the mercy of the machine1 that it is in your power4 ,no one make of bicycle is acknowledged the best1 and no one is absolutely perfect4 ,the selection of a bicycle1 therefore1 is a matter of knowledge and nice discrimination1 and its use opens a wide field of opportunity before you--touring and cruising1 and expeditions of all kinds2 travel and sight-seeing2 means for study and investigation4 ,the possible cost of cycling may be quite appalling to consider2 but in cycling1 as in other things1 you may choose between the demands of necessity and the suggestions of luxury4 ,one--almost the chief--fascination of the sport is its simplicity as a mode of travel2 the possibility of doing away with all impedimenta4 ,the bicyclist soon learns to dispense with every accessory not positively necessary and to know every possible use of indispensable articles4 ,the bicycle bestows and restores health2 it has its limit1 though it does so much that more seems always possible4 ,take the bicycle as it is1 use it intelligently1 enjoy it1 and become an enthusiast4 99 99 99 99 99 99 ,transcriber's note3 ,inconsistencies in spelling1 hyphenation1 etc4 and unusual spelling have been retained4 ,page #afb and #afc1 tables3 as printed in the source document1 although they obviously contain several errors4 ,changes made ,illustrations have been moved out of text paragraphs4 ,some minor typographical and punctuation errors have been corrected silently4 ,the illustration numbers in the ,list of ,illustrations have been added by the transcriber4