How was power translated to the rear wheel in Macmillan's design?
Answer
Using cranks and treadles linked via rods to a ratchet mechanism
The system involved the rider pushing treadles (levers) in a rocking motion, which were connected by rods to a ratchet assembly attached to the rear wheel, translating the motion into rotation.

Related Questions
Around what year is Kirkpatrick Macmillan credited with creating his rear-wheel-driven machine?What was the primary mechanical difference between Macmillan's machine and the preceding velocipedes?What was Kirkpatrick Macmillan's trade or profession?How was power translated to the rear wheel in Macmillan's design?What is the primary, though debated, source confirming Macmillan's bicycle construction?What piece of local folklore is often cited as an explanation for why Macmillan suppressed public demonstration of his invention?What key engineering principle did Macmillan's rear-wheel drive establish, which is aligned with modern bicycle design?Where is one significant, commissioned replica of Macmillan's bicycle currently housed?Which mechanism eventually superseded Macmillan's linkage system as the efficient method for achieving rear-wheel drive?The design credited with widespread mass adoption in the 1860s, which preceded the modern safety bicycle, was developed in Paris by whom?