The First Monocycle

This elegant monowheel cycle — the word “bicycle” seems somehow inappropriate, though there are certainly two wheels involved — dates back to 1869. It was built by Rousseau of Marseilles.

In 1869 the craftsman Rousseau of Marseilles built this monocycle, which perches the cyclist on the inside of a 2 1/2 yards-high wheel. As there is no steering mechanism, it makes uncommon demands on the rider’s sense of balance. (from Galbiati & Ciravegna)

Presumably the bigger outer wheel made bumps in the road easier to negotiate; compare the popular penny-farthing or “ordinary” bicycle. What it does not have is the gearing-up given by the large wheel of a penny-farthing.

Note the solid rim — this is before pneumatic tyres were introduced. There is no gearing and no steering. There is a brake, operated by twisting the handlebar forward. This pulls a strap that causes the curved lever to press against the rim of the inner wheel. (from The Museum Of Retro Tech)

For design alone, I love this. Simply marvelous. (via sansfin)