“The improvement relates partly to the handle-bars, partly to the pedals, and partly to the head, of the bicycle. “The advantage of this form of handle-bars is that it enables the rider to mount from in rear of the large wheel in the usual manner, and to dismount either in the rear or in the front of the large wheel. It also permits of an upward pull upon the handle in propelling the wheel. “The structure of the spokes, hub, and rim will not be claimed in this case, as they will form the subject of another application by me for patent thereon. “I am aware that heretofore the handle-bar has been angled, but know of no case where it extends backwardly, outwardly, and upwardly.” * * * * * This idea for handle-bars has often occurred to riders of the old Ordinary; it would have saved many serious falls, by way of the front dismount, heads down. The weight and complication are its defects. [Illustration: E. G. Latta, Friendship, N. Y. Velocipede. No. 378,253. Patented February 21, 1888.] LATTA SPECIFICATION. “The object of this invention is to provide a machine which is safe, strong, and serviceable, and more easily steered than the machines now in use, and also to construct the machine in such manner that the same can be folded when not required for use, so as to require little storage-room and facilitate its transportation. “In bicycles of ordinary construction, when the rider anticipates a fall it is customary to turn the steering-wheel in the direction towards which the rider is inclined to fall. When the steering-wheel of my improved velocipede is deflected, the saddle swings in an opposite direction to that in which the rider tends to fall, which enables the rider to regain his balance with very little movement of the steering-pivot, and also to maintain a direct course with greater ease than with the ordinary machines.” * * * * * This is one of Mr. Latta’s weekly patents, and is a sample of the many efforts now being made to overcome the sensitive steering qualities of the recent rear-driver. The invention is also intended to answer the purpose of the “Rothigiesser system,” spoken of in a former chapter. Mr. Pat. Gallagher, of New York, invents a tricycle with fly-wheels. [Illustration]