1896 ORIENT "ORITEN"
The bicycle became a very popular vehicle for sport and transportation in the late 1890s. This ten-person bicycle, made by the Orient Bicycle Company of Waltham, Massachusettes, was used primarily as a promotional tool. Weighing 305 pounds, this 23-foot long bicycle reached speeds of 45 mph. The occupant of the Number 1 saddle had the strenuous job of steering, while the rider on the Number 10 saddle had principal responsibility for braking. Slowing and stopping this machine was achieved by back-pedaling rather than by applying brakes.
Copies of this photograph may be obtained from the Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village
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