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BANTAM CHAINLESS—1898.

The Bantam, an English front-driving chainless, with a Crypto gear inclosed in one of the front hubs, has been modified for 1898. All the frame lines have become straight, and the frame is made up of one vertical and two horizontal tubes, with a diagonal one that holds the saddle stem. The rear wheel is now brought to the size of the front, increasing the resemblance to the prevailing type; the wheel base, however, still remains singularly short. This gives great handiness, the Bantam needing little space for stowing, and being so light and handy that it can be taken almost anywhere. Its wheel is from 22 to 24 or even 26 inches in diameter, geared from 60 to 72; it is easily mounted without a step. As to safety, two-fifths of the rider’s weight rests on the rear wheel. The gear, which was used some years ago by Frank Shorland in making what were then astonishing road records, is in principle the same as that on a rear-driver described further on, and one of its good points is that its operation and endurance are independent of what happens to the frame. It is not adjustable for wear, but this is true of all gears and of the chain and sprocket, except that the chain may be tightened in the familiar manner. The large internally toothed ring is part of the frame and does not move. The central gear is fast to the wheel and carries that with it. The small pinions are carried around by the crank (there are four in order to lessen wear, but one would work alone), and as they roll upon the fixed ring they are speeded up, giving a faster motion to the large pinion and the wheel. Their endurance under use has been well established, this form of gearing having had years of trial, and they run easily and smoothly. The maker figures that they ought to last, with fair care, from 20,000 to 50,000 miles of travel.

DRIVING GEAR OF

BANTAM CHAINLESS.

The Bantam is also made with a drop frame, for ladies’ use. The chief drawback to its popularity in this country, in either form, is that the position of the rider with reference to the pedals does not and cannot conform to the American custom.

The Bantam is the only front-driver now surviving, so far as can be ascertained.