Safety bicycle n. A bicycle with equal or nearly equal wheels, usually about 28 inches diameter, driven by pedals connected to the rear (driving) wheel by a multiplying gear. Since the 1930's this has been the most common type of bicycle, now simply called bicycle. The older high-wheelers are often referred to as bone-rattlers.
... Gramercy Square. It is late October; the action begins at 8.30 o'clock on a moonlight evening. The curtain rising discloses Mr. and Mrs. Perkins sitting together. At right is large window facing on square. At rear is entrance to drawing-room. Leaning against doorway is a safety bicycle. Perkins is clad in ... — The Bicyclers and Three Other Farces • John Kendrick Bangs
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