The original MAJOR TAYLOR Stem actually took bicycle riding into a much more comfortable era of time. Prior to the invention by Major Taylor( who I believe was messed out of the patent on the stem) of a adjustable stem. Handlebar extensions were limited to up and down not much forward and back. Kelly adjustable handlebar and stem Cleveland,Ohio made a racing model (circa 1898)that would adjust up and down. Hussey of Toledo (1900 circa) made a similar type adjustable stem for up and down hand positions. A few companies offered different length stems around the turn of the century mostly in England. The adjustable stem that Major Taylor used and invented to me paved the way for more companies to think about that it was ok to have proper fit on a bicycle. Around 1918, I found advertising showing a adjustable stem being sold by Worksman Cycle of New York who is still in business today. I would really like to know who took advantage of Major Taylor(The Greatest rider of the turn of the century) idea and left him poor and selling books door to door.A tragic end for a champion and bicycle inventer!!
Phil Scott
Clayton, Ohio