Invented by : Karl Drais von Sauerbronn
Invented in year : 1816
The German Baron Karl Drais von Sauerbronn invented the Bicycle. This Predecessors to the Modern Bicycle was was made entirely of wood. And it was popularly known as "Laufmaschine" or "Running Machine" as this steerable machine had no pedals; a rider would push his/her feet against the ground to make the machine go forward. It was more of a type of pre-bicycle. Sauerbronn's bicycle was first exhibited in Paris on April 6, 1818.
This ancestor of Modern Bicycle was also known as 'Dandy Horse' and 'Draisenne'. Drais' machine was patented on the 12th of January 1818 in Baden. The first demonstration of the Draisiennes was April 5, 1818. It went very poorly as a result of the shabby presentation made by the hired presenter. The Draisiennes were used for enjoyment just like the roller coster and ferris wheel. Also the bicycles were not ridden by the aristocrats. The machine was copied many times because it wasn't patented throughout all of Germany and France.
Advancements in Bicycle
Bikes with pedals and cranks were introduced in 1868-1869. Pierre Michaux and his son Ernest is credited with the creation of the bicycle pedal in 1861. In the late 1860's, the first rubber tires were used.
The first bicycle with a chain was made in 1874 by H.J. Lawson. The bicycle was made up of two wheels the same size driven by a chain on the back wheel. It was called the Safety Bicycle.
In 1893 the design of the bicycle was changed to the modern diamond-pattern frame with a roller chain and pneumatic tired wheels.
Role of Bicycle in the improvement of human life
- People had access to another form of conveyance
- Cyclists got exercise from cycling and it added to the improvement of their health
- Bicycling is the most energy efficient form of transportation ever invented.
- Inspiration for Innovation in Bicycle Technology
- Bicycle Race was initiated by the invention itself.
- Means of Enjoyment and Fun
