The History of the Bicycle

By bmov9
  • First Idea

    The French invent the basic idea of a bike
  • First Bike

    First Bike
    Originally made as a toy for children, it was first made in 1816, in Germany. It was first called a Hobbyhorse and had no pedals. https://explore.proquest.com/sirsdiscoverer/document/2250130335?searchid=1748017714&accountid=3541
  • A New Addition

    A New Addition
    15 years later, and English inventor added basic pedals to the bike. It became known as a "boneshaker" since the bike was such a bumpy ride.
  • New Tires

    In 1870, the bicycle became the new name. Tires also changed form wood to solid rubber.
  • Penny-far-thing

    Penny-far-thing
    The Penny-far-thing was a new frame for the bicycle, and had a new frame. It became popular in the US.
  • Bike Popularity Growth

    Pneumatic tires became the norm in 1880. Tires became the same size, and more people started using the bicycle.
  • Bicycles for Work

    Mail carriers started using bicycles to travel.
  • New Transportation

    New Transportation
    Henry Ford Invented the Automobile in 1896, and the bicycle popularity decreased. This continued until about 1970. During this time period, gas was also cheap around WWII, which was another cause for more cars in the US.
  • Period: to

    1896-1970 - Bicycle Popularity Decreasing in the US

  • Period: to

    1970-1990 - A comeback

    Not used for commuting as much, bicycles make a comeback as people use them for recreational and exercise purposes.
  • 1990-Present Day Tech

    The bike has been upgraded so much. Today, bicycles cost a lot more than in the 1800's. Only wealthy people could buy them then. Today, they are much more accessible to the public and have newer tech like suspension, brakes, and a derailleur.