Whether you’re a Lance-in-training or just someone who gets misty over memories of your first, the bicycle is a captivating thing. In the spirit of that universal enthusiasm, collector Michael Embacher and photographer Bernhard Angerer catalogue 100 years of the conveyance’s aesthetic and innovation in Cyclepedia: A Century of Iconic Bicycle Design (Chronicle Books). View 16 of our favorites.
Short-Bike 3R (Germany, 1996)
This bike deviates from the norm with its bold design featuring a comfortable, ergonomic broad seat and an enviable turning cycle.
Umberto Dei Giubileo (Italy, 1996)
This beautifully handmade bike was launched to celebrate Umberto Dei’s centennial anniversary.
Smith & Co. Long John (Denmark, 1983)
This bicycle eliminated the need for external equipment to transport heavy cargo by bike. It was the longest two-wheeled cargo bike, with a load capacity of 140 kilograms (308.6 pounds)
Carnielli Graziella Leopard Tipo Cross (Italy, 1976)
Known today as a “chopper,” this bike can provide its riders with some serious cycling time despite its light weight
Sironval Sportplex (France, 1939)
This recumbent bike for one cyclist was in fashion in the 1930s and continues to be popular with hobby cyclers.
MFA “Lambretta” (France, 1960)
Modeling itself after a grown-up-size motor scooter, the Lambretta provided a perfect occasion for the kids to make believe
Raleigh Tourist, Ladies (United Kingdom, 1970)
This chrome-plated steel bike looks deceptively light but is robust on the road and perfect for family outings
Messenger Bike (Italy, 1978)
Now considered a staple design among modern cyclers, this 1970s bike is the ultimate fixie
Pacific Cycles iF Mode (Taiwan, 2009)
This futuristic-looking bike is an ideal for urban mobility in both its folded and unfolded forms
BMW Super-Tech (Germany, 1997)
This aluminum and varnished steel mountain bike borrows some stylistic features from the cars and motorcycles for which its parent company is known
SØlling Pedersen (Denmark, 1978)
Danish inventor Mikael Pedersen invented this bike using an eclectic mix of mechanisms, most notably a flexible saddle that is suspended with a plastic-covered steel cord
Cinelli Laser (Italy, 1985)
The Laser demonstrates the fine craftsmanship involved in perfecting bicycle aerodynamics. It is artwork that can be ridden
Lotus Sport (United Kingdom, 1994)
This bike’s body incorporates an incredibly lightweight carbon-composite frame, resulting in its revolutionary speed
Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra (Belgium, 1990)
This bike is a 10-year special-edition model created by race-circuit star Eddy Merckx
Schauff Wall Street (Germany, 1993)
The Schauff Wall Street’s unique and dynamic build garnered it the 1992 Rote Punkt design prize
Bianchi C-4 Project (Italy, 1988)
This bike’s organic and modern design speaks to a visionary future in cycling
Via Vanity Fair
