THE CHRISTY TYPE.

At the 1895 cycle show was shown for the first time by Messrs. A. G. Spalding & Bros., the distinctive type of saddle now so well known as the [Christy]. At that time the base was of cast aluminum, having a smooth edge, but the body of the plate was perforated with holes, and it had a long peak or pommel. It was mounted upon a flat steel spring. Within the past two years the saddle has become justly popular, not only among riders, but among physicians who have made a study of the cycle saddle question. Over five thousand well-known physicians and surgeons in this country have given favorable written opinions concerning it. The changes in this year’s type are mainly in the details of construction, the same broad, general principles prevailing. The metal frame is now constructed of sheet steel, which is highly polished and nickel plated. The leather pads have been lengthened and thickened. The springs are made of a continuous piece of round wire spring steel, and the seat-post clamp has two sets of screws, one on each side of the clamp. The bolt in the pommel of the saddle, which formerly had a round head, is now made with a head of a flattened L shape, thus covering more surface, and the lock-nut underneath the saddle is prevented from loosening or falling off by being struck with a centre punch after it is set in place. One of the illustrations shows for the first time their [latest model of Christy saddles], known as the [racing Christy]. As will be noted the usual construction has been somewhat departed from. Instead of the metal edge or flange being turned down as in the other models this flange is turned up, and the saddle pads run continuously on each side from the cantle to the ends of the long pommel. The entire model of course is very narrow, and the object of the long pommel is to permit the track or the road racer to slide forward on the pommel in starting to sprint, or climbing a hill, only using the pommel to hold himself in place, and thus prevent lateral displacement of the body while under rapid pedalling movement.

THE CHRISTY—MEN’S.THE CHRISTY—WOMEN’S.

THE CHRISTY—
UNDER SIDE.		THE “SAFETY POISE.”

The hygienic feature of the Christy saddle has been universally recognized and confirmed by testimonials from all the leading physicians and surgeons in the country. It is moulded in anatomical conformity to the parts, and comfortable cushions are so placed as to receive the bony prominence of the pelvis, sustaining the weight of the body, the open centre protecting those tender parts susceptible to injury. The frame being constructed of metal, maintains its correct shape under all circumstances. By slight changes here and there, more saddle than ever has been embodied in the 1898 models, although the general lines of the saddle are unchanged. All models are made with the continuous wire spring, greatly simplifying the construction and materially strengthening the entire saddle. The cushions are upholstered with the finest curled hair moulded to proper form, and always retain their elasticity and shape. The five models or styles comprise different widths and vary sufficiently to satisfy all tastes. Many of the prominent bicycle manufacturers of the country now equip their cycles with the Christy, or list it as an option.

THE CHRISTY RACING SADDLE.