New Designs

 In recent years we have seen the increased use of new materials, (titanium, carbon fibre, etc.) in specialist bicycle construction, together with developments such as the use of disk wheels, aerodynamic rider positions etc. in competitive cycling.

None of these, however alters the basic three elements of the bicycle, balance, steering and propulsion which have not changed in essence since the beginning of the nineteenth century.

In fact, there are only two machines which have proved radically different from the design which matured in the 1890s. These are the small-wheeled Moulton type bicycle and the Recumbent cycle which is comfortable to ride and can be a very fast machine.

They have enjoyed a modest commercial success and have a loyal and enthusiastic following but are unlikely to gain very wide acceptance from the cycling public.