In response to the current discussion of cotterless cranks and tread, I pulled out an 1898 Racycle (Miami Cycle and Mfg. Co. Middletown, OH) since their major selling point was narrow tread. Model A, narrow was listed at 4 5/8 inch opposed to their standard J model at 5 1/4 inch tread. Their drawings depict the narrow tread as a horse-drawn buggy pulled directly from the front while the standard tread with the horse offset far to the right!
In addition, the crank was cotterless, held together by one large cap screw through the center of the crank. Interesting bike, the Model A, 25 lbs, mahogany finished rims, nickel trim, 32/36 spoke hubs, fixed gear 30/12, choice of single, double, or clincher tires, and absolutely no mention of brakes.
Regards,
John Wilson
Greensburg, PA
USA