[CR]Re: Clipless pedals

(Example: Racing:Beryl Burton)

From: "David Fryer" <maximalist@bigpond.com>
To: <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Sun, 17 Apr 2005 07:06:04 +1000
Subject: [CR]Re: Clipless pedals

Re: First clipless pedals.

("April 1895 -- Charles Hanson of Peace Dale, Rhode Island invents first clipless pedal.").

A definitive page of firsts in the proposed new book would make very interesting reading. It would certainly crush the myriad of false claims out there.

Cycling milestones such as: the first pneumatic tyre (tire), the first triangular frame, the first drops, the first derailleur, the first ergonomic saddle, the first centre-pull brakes etc. I believe they all appeared in the late 19th century. Even the first sloping top-tube triangular frame appeared then. (Oops, was that OT?).

Most innovations are very 'OT' though because of their important influence on much later trends that we now accept as "Classic".

The London Science Museum has a lot of fascinating info on early patents and they are extremely helpful (even if they did remove most of the cycling exhibits from Kensington). Their storage area at Swindon is essential viewing, although it is not open to the public. They even have a pre-war Caminargent that was donated when brand new. UK members should request a group inspection.

David Fryer, Queensland