The Bicycling World, Vol 10, No 11
Articles in this issue
- The editor identifies a persistent fault with slotted cranks: the bolt holding the pedal loosens over time on rough roads, eventually allowing the pedal to work free entirely. A more secure locking design is proposed to address the problem.
- An editorial warning that the wave of roller-skating rink polo matches is putting amateur cyclists at risk of losing their status, since League rules classify anyone who has competed for money in any sport as a professional. The editor urges the League to clarify its policy before the situation becomes unmanageable.
- Brief editorial items covering the League Gazette's improved quality, the C.T.C.'s new system of danger-sign posting on English roads, and the condition of winter roads for cycling. Also notes the increasing number of cyclists visible on Boston streets despite cold weather.
- H.B. Hastings of the Boston Club writes to claim the title of first cyclist to ride in 1885, having been out on his bicycle on January 2 with witnesses. The tongue-in-cheek claim launches a small correspondence contest among early-season riders.
- A.G. Coleman argues that CTC members should be granted access to New York's Central Park on their cycles, following models already established in some English parks. He makes the case that organised cycling clubs with recognised membership should be distinguished from unregulated individual riders.
- A group of Hazleton, PA, wheelmen undertook a cycling tour of Bermuda, finding the island's smooth coral roads ideal for bicycle touring. The letter describes the tropical landscape, local hospitality, and the novelty of riding a bicycle in such an unusual setting.
- Coleman reports on the high volume of applications to the American Division of the C.T.C. and the procedure for processing them through the consul network. He notes that the division's rapid growth is creating administrative challenges for the small volunteer organisation.
- Karl Kron argues against the League's policy of seeking reduced hotel rates for members, contending that discounted accommodation invariably means inferior accommodation. He insists wheelmen should pay full price and demand genuinely good service, including comfortable machine storage, rather than accept 'leavings' under a cheap arrangement.
- Local news from Orange, NJ, covering the activities of the local cycling club, recent road runs, and winter riding conditions in the area. The correspondent notes several notable cyclists who have joined the local club since autumn.
- A listing of the latest patents granted for bicycle and tricycle inventions, including improvements to brakes, hubs, and steering mechanisms. The column is a regular feature tracking innovation in the American and British cycle trade.
- Dr. Tyler's annual mileage total for 1884 is reported at 5,009 miles, claimed to be an extraordinary road-distance record. The breakdown by month shows consistent high-mileage months through the summer and autumn seasons.
- A reader writing as 'Mugwump' describes difficulty in precisely adjusting pedal position in slotted cranks, since the slot makes incremental change impossible without overshooting the desired setting. The letter follows up the editor's earlier piece on crank defects with a specific user experience.
- J. Rolfe of Australia reports on a 100-mile challenge ride, describing the roads and conditions encountered during the marathon effort. The account provides a rare view of Australian long-distance cycling and how its road conditions compare to those in England and America.
- L.D. Copeland has fitted a small steam engine to a Star bicycle, propelling it at useful speeds along level roads. The report describes the machine's boiler, fuel arrangement, and practical performance, noting both its novelty and its limitations for everyday use.
- H.J. Webb has been suspended by British cycling authorities pending investigation of his claimed John-o'-Groats-to-Land's-End record, following doubts about the timing and route. The dispute has embroiled several officials and generated fierce correspondence in the cycling press.
- Cycling news from Chicago includes debate over the best location for the L.A.W. national meet, the growth of the Chicago Bicycle Club, and the slow-race craze taking hold at local rinks. The correspondent also covers preparations for the Illinois Division's annual gathering.
- Written by 'Miss Lookabout,' a Herald correspondent describes encountering a fashionably dressed lady tricyclist in Central Park, her elegant costume carefully chosen to combine respectability with practicality. The piece is one of the earliest American cycling-press accounts of women riding in a prominent public space.
- Opens with a poem on the health benefits of cycling, followed by miscellaneous short notes covering club matters, trade items, and reader questions. Topics include debates about cyclometer accuracy and the proper care of bicycle tires in winter.
- Reports on John Keen's match race against a horse in Louisville, the Memphis six-day professional race, and a novelty slow race in Chicago. Times and distances are given for a range of track and road events from across the country.
- Club news from the Hudson, Boston, Worcester, Weedsport, and Capital clubs, covering recent runs, election of officers, and membership totals. Several clubs are planning spring tours and have begun their winter social programmes.
- The American Division's current list of consuls and their locations is published, together with notes on new appointments. The column explains how touring wheelmen can use the CTC network of contacts for accommodation and road information during their travels.
- Brief editorial replies to reader queries, including answers about League membership, the CTC consul appointment process, and bicycle brake adjustment. Several correspondents are asked to send their full address before their letters can be considered for publication.