100 Years of Bicycle Component and Accessory Design

Book excerpt: The 1935 prototype of what's offered today as the hottest new derailleur design, 100-year old suspension forks, an automatic gear system from 1924, hydraulic brakes from the 1950s. They're all here in The Data Book. This comprehensive compendium of illustrations of early European bicycle component and accessory designs is more than just a collection of curios: It is a veritable source of inspiration for the development of new designs. First published 1983 in Japan by Mr. Noguchi, president of Joto Ringyo, the illustrations in this book have given inspiration to many modern component and accessory designers, proving the wisdom of the ancient Chinese proverb quoted by the original publisher: "To understand the future, you must study the past."