The Penny-Farthing Renaissance: A Ride Through Time, Attention, and Human Connection
There’s something undeniably captivating about a penny-farthing. It’s not just the oversized front wheel or the vintage charm—it’s the way it forces you to rethink what a bicycle can be. Personally, I think the penny-farthing is more than a relic of the past; it’s a symbol of defiance against the mundane, a reminder that innovation and simplicity can coexist. And in a world dominated by sleek, modern bikes, the penny-farthing stands as a rebellious anachronism, demanding attention and sparking curiosity.
The Attention Economy of a Penny-Farthing
Riding a penny-farthing isn’t just a mode of transportation—it’s a performance. One thing that immediately stands out is how it transforms the rider into a spectacle. Take the story of the Sydney man who found solace in his daily rides. What many people don’t realize is that his solitude was paradoxically social. The penny-farthing became his bridge to the community, turning his private ritual into a shared experience. This raises a deeper question: Can attention be a form of connection? For some, like Dan Bolwell, Australia’s only professional penny-farthing maker, the answer is a resounding yes. But for others, the constant gaze can feel overwhelming. From my perspective, this duality highlights the penny-farthing’s unique ability to both isolate and unite, depending on who’s in the saddle.
The Maker Behind the Wheel
Dan Bolwell’s journey from farmer to penny-farthing artisan is as fascinating as the bikes he crafts. What makes this particularly fascinating is how he turned a lack of formal education into a niche expertise. In a world that often equates success with degrees, Bolwell’s story is a testament to the power of self-taught skills and passion. His workshop in Bacchus Marsh isn’t just a place where bikes are made—it’s a hub of creativity and defiance against the ordinary. Since 2012, he’s handcrafted over 400 penny-farthings, each one a bespoke masterpiece. A detail that I find especially interesting is his Guinness World Record for the largest and smallest rideable penny-farthings. It’s not just about size; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, both in engineering and imagination.
The Evolution of a Revolution
The penny-farthing’s history is a story of innovation and obsolescence. Originally called ‘bicycles,’ they were the cutting edge of 19th-century technology. But as chains and gears made bikes more accessible, the penny-farthing became a relic, mockingly renamed after British coins. What this really suggests is that progress often leaves behind the pioneers. Yet, Bolwell’s work proves that even outdated technology can find new life in the right hands. The mechanical simplicity of the penny-farthing—its ability to translate pedal power into high speeds—is what captivates him. If you take a step back and think about it, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most elegant.
Riding the Line Between Fear and Freedom
Learning to ride a penny-farthing is a lesson in trust and perspective. The biggest mistake? Looking down. Bolwell’s advice to ‘look up’ isn’t just practical—it’s philosophical. It’s a metaphor for how we approach challenges. When we focus on the obstacles, we lose balance. But when we keep our eyes on the horizon, everything smooths out. This raises a deeper question: How often do we let fear of the immediate blind us to the bigger picture? The penny-farthing forces you to confront this, both literally and metaphorically.
The Community of the Unusual
Bolwell describes his customers as ‘interesting’—a polite way of saying they’re not your average cyclists. But what is normal, anyway? The penny-farthing community is a tribe of adventurers, united by their willingness to embrace the unconventional. In a world that often rewards conformity, these riders are a breath of fresh air. What many people don’t realize is that their choice of transportation is a statement—a rejection of the ordinary in favor of the extraordinary. It’s not just about the ride; it’s about the journey, both physical and existential.
The Future of the Past
As we hurtle toward 2026, the penny-farthing feels like a time capsule on wheels. But its resurgence isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a rebellion against the homogenization of modern life. Personally, I think the penny-farthing’s appeal lies in its ability to reconnect us with a slower, more deliberate way of living. In a world of instant gratification, it demands patience, skill, and presence. What this really suggests is that sometimes, looking backward can help us move forward.
Conclusion: A Ride Worth Taking
The penny-farthing isn’t for everyone, and that’s precisely why it matters. It’s a reminder that there’s beauty in the unusual, value in the outdated, and joy in the unexpected. Dan Bolwell’s story isn’t just about making bikes—it’s about crafting experiences, building communities, and challenging norms. As I reflect on this, I’m reminded that the most meaningful journeys are often the ones that make us stand out. So, the next time you see a penny-farthing rolling down the street, don’t just watch—wonder. What stories is it carrying? And what stories could it inspire in you?
