I saw the world’s oldest bicycle (maybe)

I'm in Glasgow and stumbled upon what the Riverside Museum claims to be possibly the oldest bicycle in the world, an invention of Gavin Dalzell. If nothing else, they seem quite certain it is the oldest surviving bicycle.

They didn't let me ride it and were unmoved by my insistence that I am a genuine bicycle historian. Too bad since I wanted to experience some of its fascinating design features, such as a drivetrain inspired by a steamship engine.

I also wonder if the insect antennae handlebars will make a comeback. Maybe if Tadej shows up riding them next season.

The wheels are solid wood with wood spokes, and they don't appear to be tubeless ready. I don't think this thing would survive a trip down the counterbalance.

The Riverside Museum is great. I highly recommend it to any train, tram, ship and/or bicycle geek traveling through Glasgow.

Infinite velodrome.