Early 19th century The tricycle
The tricycle actually pre-dates the pedal bicycle. In general, though, very early tricycles weren’t popular — most of the handful of early ‘cyclists’ preferred four or even five wheels.
By the late 19th century, two-wheeled cyclists had acquired the reputation for being a distinctly loutish group of young men. Tricycle riders were much, much posher. If your bicycle was a modified Vauxhall Corsa, your tricycle was a Bentley.
Trikes are still ridden today, and are constructed not of carbon-fibre, but of malice and evil. They are difficult to transport. If you want to race one you’ll have to buy three expensive race wheels rather than just two. The opportunities for getting punctures are 50 per cent greater. The back wheels can fall off if not fitted properly. Braking is distinctly troublesome. The aerodynamics would embarrass a wardrobe. And riding between two bollards can be a rather arresting experience.
Tricycles try to kill you at every opportunity. They are hugely sensitive to road camber, so the only times you won’t be swerving helplessly towards the ditch are when you’re swerving helplessly towards oncoming traffic. On the other hand, when you actually do want to change direction there’s every chance you won’t be able to, or that if you do, you’ll capsize.
On the upside, you don’t have to put a foot down at traffic lights, so your shoes get marginally less worn. And they’re quite good fun.