The bicycle is not one. By invitation of the editors and publisher, manufacturers of unusual non-motorized terrestrial two- and three-wheelers get to show off one of their machines in color photographs and have them written about in this encyclopedia cum catalogue (manufacturers pay for space). These many sitting and recumbent, tandem and single, bi-and tri-cycles are annotated, prices often listed, and manufacturers' contact info given. Appendices list parts, picture the bike in its historical revolutions, list bike books, and several articles address subjects like bike benefits and the move to cantilever over fork-supported wheels. The range of non-motorized vehicles is amazing, but one "machine" stands out for its simplicity: Like-A-Bike. This lightweight and sleek wood bicycle is pedalless so that children can push and stay balanced with their feet, eventually learning to coast on two wheels a scooter in the shape of a bike. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Read Less