Book description
The first comprehensive history of the bicycle-lavishly illustrated with images spanning two centuries
During the nineteenth century, the bicycle evoked an exciting new world in which even a poor person could travel afar and at will. But was the "mechanical horse" truly destined to usher in a new era of…
Why read it?
2 authors picked Bicycle as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
For the history-curious cyclists among us, I submit for your consideration David V. Herlihy’s excellently-researched and well-told history of the two-wheeled machine we love so much.
From its beginnings as a literal “bone shaker” (an iron frame on wooden wheels), to the impossibly-light machines of the 20th and 21st centuries, Herlihy’s tale of cycling commerce, commuting, and competition over time and across the world is as enlightening as it is entertaining.
I’ve turned to it again and again for its historical perspective (and its great photos).
From Evan's list on The best books about the beautiful act of bicycling.
An absolutely beautiful, lavishly illustrated book chronicling the history of the bicycle, an invention whose impact on society is vastly underappreciated. Herlihy is perhaps the world’s foremost historian of the bicycle.
From Peter's list on The best books on bicycles and cycling.
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