Early-type Singer safety bicycle

Early-type Singer Safety bicycle, made by Singer & Co., Coventry, 1890. The front fork is curved and brings the steering axis in line with the point of contact of tyre and road. The crank is bolted on to the frame rather than brazed to the frame. The leather saddle was replaced in 1961 with another made by Brooks. It is painted black.

This bicycle was built by the Coventry firm Singer & Co, then one of the world’s leading cycle manufacturers. The Singer Safety was based on a design made popular by John Kemp Starley. The diamond-shaped frame, similar-diameter wheels and saddle directly above the pedals best converted human force to mechanical motion, making the bicycle an extension of the body. With the rise of mass production, advances in engineering and market competition, bicycles became affordable for millions across Europe and America. For the first time, women and the working classes could enjoy private travel and experiences previously restricted to the wealthy.