Customer Reviews

Collecting & Restoring Antique Bicycles

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Even for a reader with no interest in personally collecting or restoring antique bicycles themselves, this book contains better information than many "history of the bicycle" books. Adams discusses the origins of antique bicycle collecting, and divides the book into separate sections for each of the major stages of bicycle evolution: the hobby horse, the boneshaker, the ordinary, the high-wheel safety, the hard tire safety, the pneumatic tire safety, with a cursory overview of interesting bicycles from 1900 to 1970. Each section covers manufacturers, methods of construction, and tips on what to look for when buying an antique. Adams also explains how to safely ride an ordinary. A detailed chapter goes over the materials, supplies, and methods for restoring an antique bicycle, along with what to expect from a professional restorer. Transporting and showing bicycles is also covered. The book is lavishly illustrated throughout with both current and original images of complete machines and details of parts, with explanations of some of the more unusual mechanisms encountered. Altogether the book is a meticulously detailed and documented exploration of antique bicycles as part of living history. Adams makes the valid observation that anyone in possession of an antique bicycle is responsible for an irreplaceable cultural artifact belonging not just to them but to all humanity.