Pondering the comments in the early post about: 1.) the lack of ultimate over-the-top custom KOF bikes, and 2.) where to put the hottie on the hog [hog-ciclette ?], it occurred to me that one early form of bike (sometimes Trike) seemed to have vanished before being truly given a chance. I refer to what I believe were commonly called the "Sociable".
These were side-by-side tandem bikes. I've seen a few photos of some quite stunning examples, first as high wheeled tiller-steered models and later with twin handlebars. These bikes never became popular because, for one thing, they were surely outrageously expensive. I suspect their production may have also been hampered due to the complexity of the steering and drive mechanisms and of course the increased weight required - especially considering the very early components, tubing, etc., available in the late 1800s.
However, given the current popularity of recumbent bikes, the efficiency of modern drive systems for "bents" in general - including trikes and tandems, have no modern framebuilders ever even attempted to push the limits of modern, upright, fancy-lugged, steel frame construction with one of these head-turners?
If anyone has the book "Classic American Bicycles" by Jay Pridmore (c.1999, MBI Publishing Company, Osceola, WI, USA), there is a remarkable example from the late 1890s of a two wheeled, twin handlebar (dual steering), twin crank version called the Prunnett Companion.
Seems like this, or certainly a three wheeled version, would be just the thing for a pleasant spin down Rodeo Drive - perhaps with paparazzi giving welcome slow chase. California builders surely would have the customer base for such a no expense limit, over the top, bicycle extravagance. Think of the publicity that an enterprising builder would receive... instantly.
I'm cash poor... but, I'd be tempted to sell a few of my bikes for such a unique creation. A bike on which I could proudly cruise, with a babe by my side - instead of in tow as my tandem stoker. I'm envisioning some gaudy Rococo lugwork here; maybe flowers, cherubs, gold leaf... Oops, better not let your wives see this posting, Gents!
Hasn't anyone even tried to build this style of bicycle... in the past 100 years?
Bob Hanson, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA