Newer $20 auction bike that confused me.

[49autocycledeluxe]

well there are plenty of people who find riding a geared bike difficult. I see them all the time struggling to get over an overpass with a 10 speed with the chain on the large chainring up front. they just don't know how to shift or why the bike even has gears.

 

[New Mexico Brant]

Reduced - Amazing Bicycle Quackery NOS Patented Energy Saving Device! $325 Shipped Now $250! | Sell - Trade: Bicycle Parts, Accessories, Ephemera

A perfect display piece for anyone interested in bicycle technology and patents. A NOS Quinn’s Indestructible Energy Saver! Could be the only one in existence. It is new in the box (box is rough) with original cards. Also included is a period letter/journal of a retailer’s experience trying...

thecabe.com

 

[Archie Sturmer]

I say swoop those tires off and swap on some 80’s 90’s era cheapo ones. What a strange contraption!

I agree; for $20- the tires might be used on another style of bike.
The Auto bike might use something like Bell/CST's 26 x 1.9" Tread Alert tires;

The tread-alert tires have a green or red tire wear indicator, telling one when the tires need replacing.