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Evolution of the Bicycle
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The High Wheel Tricycle
While men were risking their necks on the Penny Farthing, women could enjoy a nice relaxing ride on "The High Wheel Tricycle." This gave them the freedom to wear their skirts, etc. -
First bicycle
In 1817 the first ever bicycle was invented by Baron von Drais. It was called "The Walking Machine" and could also be known as "The Draisienne." -
The Velocipede
At this time, pedals were added to the previous "Walking Machine." It was known as the "Bone shaker" or "Fast Foot." The bike was made entirely of wood, then later with metal tires, which made for an uncomfortable ride. -
The Penny Farthing
In 1870, the first all-metal bicycle was invented. It was known as "The High Wheel Bicycle" but more commonly known today as the "Penny Farthing." Solid rubber tires, and the long spokes made for a much smoother ride. -
The Hard-Tired Safety Bicycle
Like many of the bikes before, the "Hard-Tired Saefty" bicycle still had its shock-absorbing spokes, and the same features, only now, a small sprocket and fine chain were able to be added. This helped for a much better ride. -
The Pnuematic-Tired Safety Bicycle
The pnuematic tire was first applied to this bicycle in 1888. This biccyle was also known as the "Dunlop". The tires on this bicycle were made of rubber, and made for a much more enjoyable ride. -
The High Wheel Safety Bicycle
Many improvements were made to the previous designs. The small wheel in the front, for example, was said to improve the rish of going over the handlebars. One model was promoted by its manufacturer by being ridden down the steps at the capitol building in Washington D.C. -
The Scene Now
Over the past years, there have been many types of bicycles, and many different manufacturer's. Now-a-days, there is a wide variety of bicycles to choose from, such as BMX's, dirt jumper's, road bikes, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, fixies, and much more. This just goes to show how much bicycles have evolved in the last 100-150 years. The technology and diagnostics of bicycles have improved greatly, and so had the manufacturing. Bicycles are, and always will continue to evolve as time goes on.
