"Elswick" Lady's Bicycle

"Elswick" lady's bicycle, by Elswick Cycles Ltd, Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, England, 1894-1896

This is an early example of a bicycle designed specifically for women. Produced by Elswick Cycles Limited between 1894 and 1896, it has a dropped ‘v’ shaped frame that could be stepped through in a skirt or dress. This innovation improved physical and social mobility for upper and middle-class women in the late-19th century. Bicycles were quicker than walking, less expensive than owning a motorcar, and could be ridden without a male chaperone. Dropped frame ‘lady’s bicycles’ quickly became popular; it has been estimated that by 1896, a third of orders to British manufacturers were for bycicles of this type. Although some public figures decried female cyclists as morally indecent, other contemporary sources discussed the health-giving benefits of exercising in nature, whilst also advising women to maintain a feminine and graceful appearance during their rides.