What made the ordinary bicycle faster than earlier pedal velocipedes?

The "ordinary" bicycle, also known as the penny-farthing, achieved higher speeds than earlier pedal velocipedes primarily by increasing the diameter of the front wheel.12

Because the cranks were directly connected to the front axle, the distance covered with each rotation of the pedals was limited by the wheel's size. By enlarging the front wheel—eventually to sizes between 40 and 60 inches—riders could travel significantly further with every turn of the pedals.12

Technological advancements also facilitated this design. The use of tension-spoked wheels allowed for these larger, lighter wheels, while the adoption of hollow steel tubular frames and quality ball bearings improved overall efficiency compared to the heavy, wooden-wheeled "boneshakers" of the 1860s. Despite these improvements, the ordinary bicycle remained inherently dangerous, as the rider’s position directly over the large front wheel made them susceptible to being pitched forward by road hazards or sudden braking.12