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To be in the new bicycling fad sweeping the United States in the 1880s required bravery and athletic ability. Despite its difficulty and the danger of serious injury, riding these early high wheels became quite popular and cycling clubs formed across the country. In the 1890s, the League of American Wheelman actively and successfully helped pass laws for road improvements throughout the United States. Cycling proved popular even among some women despite the disapproval many felt about females perched on dangerous high wheels. These cyclists posed in their club uniforms with their high wheels. One holds the racing medals the club has won.