About World Bike Day

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World Bicycle Day celebrates the two-wheeled wonder, the bicycle, and its contribution to health, transportation, freedom, and the environment.

Where did bicycles come from?

The history of the bicycle can be traced back to the early 19th century, with several key innovations and milestones shaping its development over the years. Here's a brief overview of the bicycle's evolution:
The Walking Machine (1817): Invented by German Baron Karl von Drais, the "laufmaschine" or "draisine" was the first human-powered two-wheeled vehicle. It had no pedals, momentum by the rider pushing his feet against the ground.
The Velocipede (1860s): Known as the "boneshaker" due to its rough ride, the Velocipede was an early version of the bicycle with pedals attached directly to the front wheel. Frenchman Pierre Michaux and his son Ernest are credited with this invention.
The High-Wheel Bicycle (1870s): Also called the "penny-farthing" or "ordinary bicycle," the high-wheel bicycle featured a large front wheel and a small rear wheel. The design allowed for increased speed, but it was difficult to mount and prone to accidents.
The Safety Bicycle (1880s): John Kemp Starley, an English inventor, introduced the safety bicycle in 1885 with his "Rover" model. This design featured two equal-sized wheels, a chain-driven rear wheel, and a diamond-shaped frame. Riding was much safer and more comfortable than the high-wheel bicycle, which led to its widespread popularity.
Pneumatic Tires (1888): John Boyd Dunlop, a Scottish inventor, developed the first practical pneumatic tire, which used air-filled rubber tubes to provide a smoother ride. This innovation significantly improved the comfort and efficiency of bicycles.
Derailleurs (1900s): The derailleur, a mechanism for changing gears, was introduced in the early 20th century. It allowed cyclists to switch between different-sized sprockets on the rear wheel, enabling them to tackle varying terrain more easily.
Mountain Bikes (1970s): Mountain biking emerged as a popular sport in the 1970s, with pioneers like Gary Fisher and Joe Breeze modifying bicycles for off-road use. The first mass-produced mountain bike, the Specialized Stumpjumper, was introduced in 1981.
BMX Bikes (1970s): Bicycle motocross, or BMX, originated in the United States in the 1970s. These small, sturdy bikes were designed to race on dirt tracks and perform stunts. The sport gained popularity and eventually became an Olympic event in 2008.
Carbon Fiber Frames (1980s): In the 1980s, manufacturers began using carbon fiber to create lighter, more robust bicycle frames. This material allowed for more efficient energy transfer and improved aerodynamics, making bicycles faster and more responsive.
Electric Bikes (1990s): The first electric bicycles, or e-bikes, appeared in the 1990s, using battery-powered electric motors to assist with pedaling. E-bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a more accessible and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional bicycles and other forms of transportation.
Bicycles continue to evolve and diversify, with various styles and technologies available to suit diverse needs and preferences. From casual riders to professional racers, bikes remain a popular and enduring mode of transportation and recreation worldwide.

World Bicycle Day began in 2018.

Header image: Workers' bicycles at the Taj Mahal complex in Agra, India. Photo LD Lewis