Featuring over 1200 technical illustrations of bicycle components, this facsimile reprint of 'The Data Book' provides technical details of bicycle construction and technology collected from European cycling periodicals and manufacturers' catalogues dating from 1822 to 1959, including: the 1935 prototype of the derailleur design; 100-year-old suspension forks; the automatic gear system from 1924; and hydraulic brakes. The drawings of bicycle parts from the 1880s to the 1950s (many by celebrated technical illustrator Daniel Rebour) are in chronological order. See for yourself how many 'new inventions' you can spot - suspension, hydraulic brakes, etc. A vintage bicycle component treasure trove. This book is a must have for the classic bicycle rider or cycling historian.