The history of the bicycle is filled with so much uncertainty and debate that a yearly Bicycle History conference convenes to try and clarify the details. Now in its 15th year, it is hoped that some clarity has been achieved, allowing us to present a timeline of bicycle development. The ongoing need for historical reevaluation highlights the bicycle’s constantly evolving nature and its deep connection with the culture and society surrounding it.
1818: The Dandy Horse or “Running Machine”
In 1818, Karl von Drais invented the dandy horse, also known as the “running machine.” This early invention was propelled by the rider pushing their feet against the ground. Lacking pedals, a steering mechanism, and brakes, maneuvering this contraption was challenging and even hazardous.
1850: The First Three-Wheeler
Around 1850, the first three-wheeled bicycle emerged. This design offered increased stability compared to the dandy horse, making for a somewhat easier ride.
1860: The Velocipede – The First True Bicycle
The 1860s marked a significant milestone with Ernest Michaux and Pierre Lallement’s invention of the velocipede. Often considered the first “true” bicycle, it was developed around 1860.
1861: Crank and Pedals Introduced
By 1861, the velocipede was improved with the addition of a crank and pedals. However, brakes were still absent, leading to numerous dangerous “headers” or forward falls.
1870: The Penny Farthing
The iconic Penny Farthing bicycle was invented in 1870. Its name originated from the visual comparison of its wheels to a penny and a farthing coin – the penny being much larger than the farthing. The Penny Farthing was notoriously unstable and difficult to mount and dismount. Furthermore, the front wheel served as both the power source and steering mechanism, making it far from an ideal or efficient machine.
1885: The Safety Bicycle Revolution
A major turning point came in 1885 with John Kemp Starley’s invention of the safety bicycle. Characterized by two wheels of equal size and a rear wheel driven by a chain, this design was significantly more efficient and allowed for the use of smaller wheels. Named for its obvious safety advantage over the Penny Farthing due to a lower center of gravity, the safety bicycle paved the way for modern bicycle design.
1894: Betty Bloomers and Women’s Cycling
In 1894, Betty Bloomers gained popularity, liberating women from the constraints of tricycles. This clothing style allowed women to ride bicycles comfortably, even while wearing long skirts, expanding access to cycling.
1903: Internal Hub Gears Enhance Bicycle Technology
1903 saw the invention of internal hub gears. This innovation provided cyclists with more reliable and protected gear shifting systems.
1920: The Kids Bike Emerges
By 1920, the kids bike was developed. Often weighing around 65 pounds, these bikes mirrored design elements of motor vehicles, reflecting the growing popularity of automobiles over bicycles during this era.
1930: Schwinn and the Forerunner to the Mountain Bike
In 1930, Schwinn introduced spring forks and fat tires, designed to withstand the rough handling by teenage boys. This adaptation inadvertently created a preliminary design that would later evolve into the mountain bike.
2000: The Electric Bicycle Arrives
The year 2000 marked the rise of the electric bicycle. E-bikes integrated electric motors to provide pedal assistance, opening up cycling to a wider range of people and terrains.
2000: Solar Powered Bikes – Sustainable Innovation
Also in 2000, Miroslav Miljevic designed a solar-powered bicycle. This innovative concept incorporated a solar-powered battery, intended for commuters to charge while parked outdoors during the day, offering a sustainable transportation solution.
The Future of Bicycles
The bicycle continues to evolve. Ongoing innovations promise even more exciting developments in bicycle technology and design in the years to come.
