It wasn't until the late 1830's that pedal powered bicycles were introduced. This is when those big wheeled bicycles we've seen in old photos came along. They were named High Wheelers and they were the way of the time for men.



The ride on one of these big wheel bicycles through the towns of the time was life-threatening. They weren't very comfy to ride and a bit difficult to keep erect. If the ride didn't rough you up a bit, the fall certainly would. They earned the moniker "bone-shakers" for good reason.

With the invention of the Safety Bicycle, all that changed. A gentleman named John Kemp Starley is alleged to have made the first successful model in 1885. He named it the "Rover," but he never patented it.

Starley's innovative concept had some parts we're now familiar with. It had two wheels the same diameter, a chain drive to the rear wheel and a steerable front wheel.

In earlier bicycles, the frame was lumbering, and normally made of wood. The introduction of lighter metals and the rhombus frame construction made them lighter. This single change allowed for several other designs to be added.

Previously, the cycling activity of the rider was applied to the front wheel. This made it difficult to power the cycle and it was more accident prone. With a chain drive attached to the rear wheel, the rider could more readily pedal. Turning street corners and other maneuvers became more comfortable, and the cycle viewed as more secure.

With the improvement of air filled tires, the riders of the time were finding it easier. Gone were the days of hard rubber or wooden tires. These modern tires were lighter and offered a vastly improved, cushioned ride.

The biking frenzy hit Europe and North America in the middle to later 1800's. Individuals from the middle classes as well as the posh were keen to get in on this wild way to travel. Biking clubs were cropping up all around Europe and the United States biking was not only a sport leisure-time activity, but it became a significant form of personal transportation as well.

Women, in particular, were bringing together the ranks of cycle riders in huge numbers. Before these changes to the cycle, women weren't allowed to ride. There was a question about the perils and potential moral implications of a woman riding a cycle. For a time, even with the safety features, young single women could only ride in the party of an elder, esteemed female.

European nations still employed the cycle for transport and leisure well into the early 20th century. In some countries in Europe, even today, bicycles far outnumber autos. They're preferred in more prominent cities where parking is limited and traffic is hard. And, possibly best of all, they are extremely efficient and produce no pollution.

Americans did not follow in the Europeans path though. By the 1910's, bicycles for adults were being replaced by cars. Although still employed by some, they weren't quite as popular as they once were. By the 1940's, the attitude towards bicycles was that they were kids toys. Most bicycles of the time were manufatured for children.

Bikes are making a comeback in these times of high gas costs. Bikes are extremely efficient modes of transportation. The added gain of a healthier body are encouraging more people to ride bikes. People that have not been on a cycle in 20 years or more are bicycling their way to thier job or out doing some shopping.

Some of these industrious folks are even constructing their own bicycles. From a standard safety bike to tandem bicycles and trikes, it's something nearly anyone can build. When you build your own cycle, you choose the design and customize it to your own demands. It's a excellent way to spend time with the children too. And after you've constructed a cycle or two, it'll be a blast to take 'em out for a ride!

The cycle has come a long way since the earlier attempts. Now, bicycles are made of lighter weight, stronger materials. Manufacturers offer a large number of designs, based on the intended use. They're designed for safety, comfort and are quicker than ever before. Accessories like child trailers make taking the kids for a ride or stopping for some food easygoing.

In my next biking report, I will be talking of the different designs of bicycles there are and how you can build your own. In the meantime, go ride a cycle!