Shaking the dust off old bikes, steampunk fans have proven that with some repurposed accessories and a healthy dose of creativity, almost anything is possible!
Steampunking an item that really did exist in the age of steam power has its own unique charm because the object leaves the realm of fantasy and enters that of possibility. What if some of the cycles below are actual, eccentric remnants of the Victorian age, left in someone’s basement and, one fine day, simply dusted off? Perhaps we've suspended our disbelief a little too far; in any case, repurposing is a whole lot of fun and you just never know what you might find…
Our first entry is a case in point. In the days of steam power, this is how the bicycle craze started — with penny-farthing cycles. Developed and used in the 1880s, these vehicles were the first to be called bicycles and were characterized by a large front wheel and a much smaller rear wheel (in this case, it's flipped). Their amusing nickname comes from the old British penny and farthing coins, with the former being much larger than the latter, so that if put side by side, the penny leading a farthing would resemble one of the new bicycles.
This steampunk bicycle captivates wits its various cool features: the two big brass horns in front, for example, the clock and valves attached to the frame, the bright red saddle and the vintage suitcase mounted on the side, as a steampunk saddle bag.
This steampunk bike is actually a trike, and very much in use as a vehicle to transport all kinds of odds and ends, as seen below. Outfitted with what looks like a homemade motor, this steampunk trike actually gathers up some real steam!
This steampunk bicycle was spotted at an old-timer show in Holland. The Dutch, having a reputation for valuing and producing good bicycles, also have an impressive line in steampunk cycles like this one. The black bike with gold ornamentation is quite elegant looking and laid back, too, judging by the low ruby seat that would place the rider in a lying position (hence the backrest). Notice the patriotic touch with the red, white and blue chain guard. The leather handles are also nice, providing a good grip on a speedy ride.
The suicide bike gets its name from the high probability of impalement that the rider faces when using the bike (according to its creator). Yup, the handlebar is custom made from quite scary-looking found African reed buck antlers. The red paint of the bike clearly adds to the sense of urgency that comes across.
It's hard to believe that this incredible steampunk cycle started out as a regular bike. Found by the side of the road some 15 years ago, it first served in its original shape for about 10 years before it got its steampunk makeover.
This eye-catching steampunk bike is actually another trike, and hard to miss because of the giant horn that serves as a handlebar. We love the black-and-gold color scheme and that the two-wheel axle is in the front rather than in the back. The coachman’s lamp adds a nice touch and so does the device below it. Is it a pump or another aether-dispensing apparatus? We’re not sure, but it sure is one cool trike!
In a nod to authenticity, we end this post how we started it: with a bike plucked straight out of history. Well, almost. Photographer Shelly Schroeder aka Ridingpretty saw this amazing creation at the Maker Faire. It looks like two high wheelers that were joined for double the fun.