1897 Companion Tandem Punnett Cycle Mfg., Rochester, New York
The sociable tandem began in 1869 in England, yet Albert Weaver of Hamilton,
Ontario, was the first to patent this type of bicycle where individuals rode side
by side. This bicycle has the ability for a riding couple to carry conversations
side by side, but it may also be converted into a single bicycle by removing the
handlebars and seats and placing one in the center of the frame. The company
advertised that a difference of 100 pounds in weight between the two riders was
not noticeable, and that a person who was ignorant of riding could be taken out
on this with perfect safety. However, the flaws in this bicycle were too much to
overcome, and the company declared bankruptcy after two years of production.
Postcard for sale.
