Penny-farthing

A penny-farthing, also known as a high wheel bicycle or ordinary, is a type of bicycle that was popular in the 1870s and 1880s. It is characterized by a very large front wheel (typically much taller than the rider) and a much smaller rear wheel. This design allowed for higher speeds, but also made the bicycle unstable and difficult to mount and dismount, making it relatively dangerous to ride, with potential for serious injury from falling. The name refers to the relative size of the British penny and farthing coins, the larger wheel resembling a penny and the smaller rear wheel a farthing.

Penny-farthing meaning with examples

• The vintage penny-farthing stood gleaming in the sunlight at the museum exhibit, a testament to the era of daring cyclists. Its oversized front wheel, a symbol of technological advancement, was a stark contrast to the more modern bikes on display, showcasing the progression of bicycle design over the decades. The exhibit highlighted the engineering challenges and safety considerations of the early bicycles.
• He carefully mounted his penny-farthing, adjusting his posture to balance on the towering front wheel. The precarious nature of riding the antique bicycle demanded a great deal of skill and balance, showcasing the rider's capabilities. Though slower and more cumbersome, its presence created a nostalgia, carrying the elegance and daredevilry of old.
• In historical movies, scenes often featured gentlemen riding penny-farthings, adding a layer of visual flair and period authenticity to the settings. The spectacle of the high-wheeled bicycles became immediately iconic, representing the wealth and free spirit of the time. Directors often employed these iconic machines to highlight a scene’s authenticity.
• The museum's penny-farthing exhibit showcased the historical context of bicycle innovation, demonstrating the leap from dangerous 'ordinaries' to safer, more efficient designs. The advancements in cycling were made over time due to both technological advancement and safety concerns from riding such risky contraptions. The change in style and safety were quite impactful.
• She watched the penny-farthing rider's precarious journey across the uneven cobblestone streets of the old town. His balance was impressive, navigating the narrow streets of the old town. The contrast between the classic bicycle and the modern landscape made the view even more memorable. The danger from such machines created an odd aesthetic.