“The operation will then be as follows: When a downward pressure is applied to one lever its lower arm or prong, g′, pressing upon the face of the disk F, draws the case or frame forward, so as to press the rollers h against the face of the disk, thus clutching or gripping the disk at three points, so as to clamp the frame or case to it. The downward pressure of the lever then turns the disk and axle until the lever of the opposite clutch has gripped the other disk in the same way.
“In a four-wheeled carriage a seat or body can be placed upon the front part of the vehicle for carrying another person or parcels.
“I thus provide a vehicle that is propelled by a walking movement similar to that employed in operating the bicycle. It can be operated with very little exertion, and it enables the rider to carry another person or packages, if he desires.”
This gallant tandem inventor was at least not guilty of requiring his lady to do any work.
R. Tragardh, of Chicago. Velocipede. No. 250,607. Patented December 6, 1881.
This is a sample of many patents in which the inventors try to combine the elements of a bicycle and tricycle, thereby defeating the end of each.
J. Renetti. Velocipede. No. 96,963. Patented November 16, 1869.
A clutch-lever machine of some merit, considering the early date of the patent.