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Beeston-Humber Racing Bicycle, 1886

National Museum of American History

Object Details

Humber and Co., Ltd.
Description
Humber and Co., Ltd. of Beeston, Nottingham, England built this lightweight racing bicycle in 1886. It was completely restored to new condition by its donor before being presented to the museum. Weighing only 24 pounds, this make of ordinary was ridden by many world's champions in the 1880s.
This Humber closely resembles the Columbia Light Roadster of 1886 in general shape. The diameter of the front wheel, with its solid rubber tire, is 52 inches, and that of the rear wheel, 18 inches. The wheels are fitted, respectively, with 60 and 20 radial wire spokes. Adjustable cranks, providing from 4 to 5 1/2 inches of throw, are attached to the front axle. The pedals are not rubber covered. The leather saddle is secured directly to the perch without the benefit of springs, and there is no step and no brake, all of which aided in keeping the weight to a minimum. The curved handlebars are fitted with smooth, white grips.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of A. E. Schaaf
1886
ID Number
TR.310818
catalog number
310818
accession number
128831
Object Name
Bicycle, Ordinary
bicycle, ordinary, racing
Other Terms
Bicycle, Ordinary; Road
See more items in
Work and Industry: Transportation, Road
Bicycling
America on the Move
Transportation
National Museum of American History
Record ID
nmah_843077
Metadata Usage (text)
CC0
GUID (Link to Original Record)
https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a6-9e5d-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Related Content

  • Bicycles

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