<P> The penny - farthing is a direct - drive bicycle, meaning the cranks and pedals are fixed directly to the hub . Instead of using gears to multiply the revolutions of the pedals, the driven wheel is enlarged to be close to the rider's inseam, to increase the maximum speed . This shifts the rider nearly on top of the wheel and makes it impossible for the rider to reach the ground while sitting on the seat . </P> <P> The frame is a single tube following the circumference of the front wheel, then diverting to a trailing wheel . A mounting peg is above the rear wheel . The front wheel is in a rigid fork with little if any trail . A spoon brake is usually fitted on the fork crown, operated by a lever from one of the handlebars . The bars are usually mustache shaped, dropping from the level of the headset . The saddle mounts on the frame less than 50 cm (18 in) behind the headset . </P> <P> One particular model, made by Pope Manufacturing Company in 1886, weighs 36 lb (16 kg), has a 60 - spoke 53 - inch (1.35 m) front wheel and a 20 - spoke 18 - inch rear wheel . It is fitted with solid rubber tires . The rims, frame, fork, and handlebars are made from hollow, steel tubing . The steel axles are mounted in adjustable ball bearings . The leather saddle is suspended by springs . </P> <P> Another model, made by Humber and Co., Ltd., of Beeston, Nottingham, England, weighs only 24 lb (11 kg), and has 52 - and 18 - inch wheels . It has no step and no brakes, in order to minimize weight . </P>

What is the penny farthing made out of
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