The sun., 1898-01-26
CYCLlNG.

"That the chainless bicycle has come
to stay is an assured fact to those who
have had an opportunity to study its
mechanicism and test its ease of opera
tion," is the way one manufacturer puts
it, yet in nearly nine out of every ten
cases where wheelmen who have ridden
for year or more have been questioned
on it's popularity, the answer in sub.
stance is, "No chainless for me-" Even
at the New York headquarters of big
firm that intends to produce chainless
soon, one of the persons whose duty it is
to sell and explain all of the parts of the
wheel, said; II don't want chainless.
The chain wheel is good enough for me-"
So has it been found in numerous other
instances.
An ingenious device has been invented
which should be very useful to the be-
ginner. 1t is common piece of wire
nickeled, and connects with the front
forks from the frame just above the
wheel. 1t is calculated to balance wheel
thereby of great assistance to the learner.
Although it is not thought it would be
needed by an experienced rider, it
adds greatly to the pleasure of riding,
especially on rough roads, and enables
riders to turn corners or circles safely
and steadily. 1t gives one confidence
in the wheel. It weighs only two
ounces and does not detract from the
best appearance of the machine.
Following on the heels of the electri-
cal pacing machines, which are ex-
pected to be used here next season,
comes the invention of steam triplel
for pacing purposes, which is being con-
structed by &. w. Clark, mechanic, of
Rochester. 1t is said that the steam
machine will revolutionize pacing by
supplying speed of little less than
mile minute. When fully equipped the
triplet will weigh in the neighborhood
of 400 pounds. The two men who will
sit behind the steersman will rest side.
by side over the rear wheel,
The high handle-bar ordinance in
force at Washington has stirred up no
end of comment and criticism. It
seems to be an open question whether
the danger to pedestrians can be less
ened by forcing cyclists to sit straight.
The theory behind the Washington
regulation is that the rider who leans
far forward cannot well see what is be-
fore him. 1t may be doubted, however,
whether this notion is based upon
reasonable grounds.
TaylOre was more seriously injured in
his race with Starbuck than was 1T first
supposed. He was carried to the boat in
New York, and left his bed but for a
short time during the trip to Belair, Fla,
being compelled to again take to his bed
upon his arrival there. 1t may be week
and perhaps more before he will be able
to mount his wheel.
T.. s. Edwards, Of the Century Wheel
men of New York, has completed his
twenty-fourth consecutive century run
of this year.
Arthur Zimmerman, the old-time
worlds Champion, it is understood, has
given up his intended trip to France. 1t
is probable also that George Banker will
not 60 across for French prize money.
Major Taylor, the colored lad, who had
intentions of racing in a land where his
color would not handicap him, has aban-
doned the idea in favor Of remaining in
this country and trying middle-distance
racing. Otto Zeigler, the Pacific Coast
rider, intends to come East for the sea-
sons racing.
Tom Eek, who mysteriously disap-
peared two weeks ago. has been dis
covered" 1t appears that he was sent
to Paris for the purpose of securing
French riders for certain New York
track. The secrecy observed was due to
fear that other managers might get in
ahead of him.
Tom Linton. the English middIe.dis-
ance rider, will arrive in this country
Sunday.
A member OF the L. A. W. suggests
he advisablity rf having a junior mem
ocrship.