Page "Bicycle brake" Paragraph 14

Invented in 1897, the duck brake, aka Duck Roller Brake used a rod operated by a lever on the handlebar to pull twin friction rollers ( usually made of wood or rubber ) against the front tyre.

Mounted on axles secured by friction washers and set at an angle to conform to the shape of the tyre, the rollers were forced against their friction washers upon contacting the tyre, thus braking the front wheel.

A tension spring held the rollers away from the tyre except when braking.

Braking power was enhanced by an extra-long brake lever mounted in parallel with and behind the handlebar, which provided additional leverage when braking ( two hands could be used to pull the lever if necessary ).

Used in combination with a rear coaster brake, a cyclist of the day could stop much more quickly and with better modulation of braking effort than was possible using only a spoon brake or rear coaster brake.

Known colloquially as the duck brake, the design was used by many notable riders of the day, and was widely exported to England, Australia, and other countries.

In 1902, Louis H. Bill was granted a patent for an improved version of the Duck Roller Brake ( Patent 708, 114 ) for use on motorized bicycles ( motorcycles ).