Penny-farthings are a unique and intriguing type of bicycle from the late 19th century. Invented in 1871 by James Starley, penny-farthings were among the first production bicycles ever made and feature a large front wheel and a much smaller rear wheel, thus giving them their distinct appearance. In spite of their size and shape, penny-farthings are surprisingly durable and strong - they are capable of reaching speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, and they can carry riders of up to 2 stone in weight. This makes them popular with cyclists who are not intimidated by the large front wheel, which requires special skills to handle. Experienced penny-farthing riders enjoy the feeling of speed, balance and challenge that riding the bicycle offers. The popularity of penny-farthings has remained consistently high since the 19th century. They are a popular choice for cyclists who want to experience the unique feeling and experience that riding these bicycles offers. They are also popular for their eye-catching design, which has become an icon of the cycling community. As such, penny-farthings are a fun and entertaining way to embrace the joys of cycling.