Bicycle Trick Riding, No. 2

About This Movie

Bicycle Trick Riding, No. 2 is a delightful little short that showcases Neidert’s impressive cycling skills in a very straightforward, almost charming way. The film has this raw, unpolished energy that really captures the spirit of late 19th-century amusement. It’s all about the stunts - riding backwards, balancing on one pedal, and the thrilling moment when he rears the bike onto its back wheel. There's an almost whimsical atmosphere, and the pacing feels spontaneous. You can tell these tricks were captured in a single take, which adds to its authenticity. The simplicity of it all is refreshing in a way that modern films sometimes lack, letting the feats take center stage without distraction.

As an early Edison film, Bicycle Trick Riding, No. 2 has some appeal for collectors due to its historical significance in cinema, though it’s not as commonly found in circulation. The format history is pretty straightforward, primarily existing in its original 35mm prints, which can be difficult to track down. There’s a niche interest among those who appreciate trick films and early cinema, but the scarcity means that if you do come across a copy, it’s worth considering for a collection focused on silent era works.