by Bruce Schaefer

Once a year the eyes of the world fall upon Frederick MD when the guys – and not a few gals – come out to race their hi-wheelers. These are bikes with a BIG wheel in the front and little bitty one behind, also called Penny Farthings in some quarters. Like England. 

About 54 racers, including 6 ladies, appeared Saturday morning, July 15, to display their exotic contraptions and attendant riding skills as they rode them at some speed around a course through downtown Frederick. Many of the bikes they rode were genuine antiques, built between 1880 and 1920. At least one was hand-built, out of parts of old IKEA furniture; many others are from a small bikemaker in Sweden who can deliver one to you in Frederick for around $2000 – a pittance in the world of specialized bicycles.

Some riders came to compete and win; it was billed, after all, as a race. They sped around the track in spandex. Others came just to have fun, and dressed the part: old timey hats, knickers, gaudy socks, outrageous beards and hairdos. They were the people we applauded and photographed. 

Here’s what we came home with: 

One of these fellows actually won the race.

Duly noted by those who care. 

For the rest of us, the day was about preposterous bicycles, costumed riders, and the atmosphere thus created. It was an excellent day, and our hats off to Frederick for hosting it. 

(It should be noted, this race in Frederick is the only one like it in the whole USA. Mighty kudos to those who make it happen.)