In August 2007 Drew Buck from England rode the 1200km Paris Brest Paris on a 1920s bicycle which had a low gear engaged by pedalling backwards. He was dressed in the garb of a Breton Onion Seller of the period. Such Onion Sellers were known as Johnnies from the common Breton name 'Jean', they ranged all across Britain for over 70 years selling their onions from door to door. Drew's ride was an affectionate tribute to their tenacity and earned him a special prize from the organisers and the admiration of those who saw him.
@metamaggot that being because you supposedly have more effective pushing on the pedals when they go backwards...:
metamaggot 7 months ago
the bike is probably a manufrance "hirondelle"....they have backward gears for hills
metamaggot 7 months ago