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but surely the manufacturers gravitated towards the ‘Rover’ a more traditional style we know of today of the double diamond frame – still with solid tyres. Tandemists had a choice of riding side by side on a ‘sociable’ or behind each other – in each case the frame consisted of two large wheels on the outside of the riders and a small steering wheel in front. The cost of a tandem was in the region of £32 – the average weekly wage at the time was theybetween 10 shillings and £1 – so quite a large commitment for any aspiring rider. Many of the bicycle manufactures of the day went on to produce motorised vehicles ie Hillman, Austin, Humber, Morris etc. In the main cycling of any type was an all male preserve. Understandably so, as mastering the Old Ordinary, was no mean task. Mounting was the hardest bit, the rider stood at the back of the machine reaching over to hold the handlebars, placed his left foot on the step, with the backbone of the frame between his legs, he then scooted along with the right foot to gain momentum, once moving the left leg was straightened allowing the rider to perch onto the saddle and pedal like furry. As you can imagine acceptable for man but rather ungainly for a lady in full skirt and delicate hats. The only options for ladies was a bike where she could ride side saddle until a certain Mrs King formed the Rational Dress Society in 1883. Soon to be joined by a certain Miss Bloomer who introduced the infamous 14