What were some notable problems with the Penny Farthing Bicycle?

The Penny Farthing bicycle, known for its large front wheel and smaller rear wheel, had significant design flaws that impacted its usability. One of the most notable problems was its braking system. Unlike modern bicycles, braking on a Penny Farthing was challenging and often dangerous, as the rider had to rely primarily on a direct rim brake, which was not very effective. This could lead to accidents, especially when descending hills or at high speeds.

In addition to braking issues, the bicycle's design also made it inherently unstable. The high center of gravity due to the large front wheel meant that the rider was at risk of tipping over easily, particularly when taking corners or during sudden stops. This combination of poor braking capabilities and the instability of the design made riding the Penny Farthing a risky endeavor.

Other choices suggest attributes that do not accurately reflect the problems associated with this type of bicycle. Its lightweight design did not contribute to ease of handling due to the inherent stability issues, it did not use complex gearing mechanisms, and it was not powered by fuel since it was pedal-operated. Thus, the correct focus on the dangerous braking and instability correctly identifies the primary concerns with the Penny Farthing bicycle.