The History of the bicycle.

The bicycle is a popular mode of transportation and leisure activity today but its history dates back to the early 19th century. People started building bicycles in the 1800s. Since then, bicycles have grown more popular. Today, more than one billion people around the world ride bicycles. 

The design of the bicycles has changed over time. However, one thing stays the same: two wheels and a lot of fun! The Ordinary 3 Built in 1871, the ordinary had a tall wheel in front and a small wheel in back. The rider sat up on a seat above the high front wheel.

The ordinary moved faster than earlier bikes because of its large wheel. The big wheel also caused problems. It was hard to ride up a hill. It was also hard to get on and off the high seat. Riders often fell forward onto their heads when they tried to slow or stop the bike. All these problems made the ordinary dangerous for the rider.

Here's a brief history of the bicycle.

 1817 - The first bicycle-like machine was invented by a German inventor, Baron Karl von Drais. The device was called a "running machine" or "draisine," and it had two wheels, a wooden frame, and a handlebar for steering. The rider would propel themselves forward by pushing their feet against the ground. 

1839 - A Scottish blacksmith, Kirkpatrick MacMillan created a pedal-driven bicycle. This early design had a frame made of wood and iron, with pedals attached to the front wheel. The rider would sit on a leather saddle and use their feet to pedal and steer. 

1860s - The first "high-wheeler" or "penny-farthing" bicycles were invented. These bikes had a large front wheel and a small rear wheel, which made them faster than previous designs. However, they were also difficult to ride, and accidents were common. 

1870s - The first all-metal bicycle is created, featuring a chain-driven rear wheel. 

1885 - An English inventor, John Kemp Starley, created the first "safety bicycle" which had two wheels of equal size and a chain-driven rear wheel. This design was more stable and easier to ride than previous designs, and it quickly became popular. 

1890s - Bicycles became a popular form of transportation and leisure activity in many countries. Women began to ride bicycles in large numbers and cycling clubs were formed. 

1903 - The Tour de France is first held comprising of 6 stages covering 2,428 kilometres. 

1910s - The bicycle becomes a popular mode of transportation with many cities creating bike lanes and parking facilities.

1930s - The first mass-produced mountain bikes are created, designed for off-road riding. 

1940s - Bicycles are used extensively during World War II for both transportation and military purposes. 

1960s - The first folding bicycles are invented allowing for easy storage and transport. 

1970s - The "BMX" bicycle, designed for stunt riding and racing, becomes popular. 

1980s - The first carbon fibre bicycle frames are created leading to lighter and more durable bikes. 1990s - The "hybrid" bicycle, combining features of road and mountain bikes becomes popular.

 2000s - The evolution of the bicycle in the 21st century has been driven by a desire for sustainability, convenience, and technological advancements.