History of the bicycle.

History of bikes

The first idea of a bicycle was found in the 1490’s believe it or not.

Rough drafts of bicycles were found in the work of one of Leonardo Da Vinci’s students.

In the 17th century Johann Hautsch made a carriage, however had more similarity to a motorcar than a bicycle

Later on in the same century Mr Stephen Farffler created the tricycle.

Early in the 19th century, in Germany, a bicycle was created with 2 wooden wheels! It compromised of a seat, frame and handlebars, however did not at this time include pedals. The rider would use their feet to push themselves along.

The name given to this first bicycle was ‘Draisiennes’, after the creator Baron Karl Von Drais.

A few years later an improved version was created by Denis Johnson. This was nicknames the ‘Dandy horse’ and had larger wheels making the ride more comfortable.

Later, in 1839, the first modern day bicycle was made by Kirkpatrick Macmillan.

Between 1868 & 1869 bicycles with pedals and cranks were introduced.

Rubbers tyres were also introduced around the same time.

In 1868 the first bicycle race was held. The winner was a chap called James Moore.

The ‘Penny Farthing’ bicycle was made in 1870, which was made with a large front wheel and a smaller back wheel.

The first bicycle to be made with a chain was in 1874 by H.J Lawson. The wheels on this bike were the same size front & back.

America first manufactured bikes in 1878.

Late 19th century the first bicycle shop opened, where you could buy bicycles as well as taking them to be repaired. This shop was opened by the Wright brothers.

Over the following years the design of the bike enhanced. However between 1900 & 1950 the development slowed down somewhat due to the invention of the motor car.

!970’s Mountain bikes & BMX’s became popular. Bicycles which had previously only had the one gear, were developed and there was much more options regarding speed and tension and extra gears were added.

Modern day bikes, which is now a more popular name for them then the old fashioned ‘bicycle’, are even more enhanced with suspension on both the rear and front of the bike, and are now used on rough and muddy terrain such as mountains. They are also more durable and long lasting.

History of the bicycle.