World Bicycle Day: discover the origins and see curiosities!

This June 4th we celebrate World Bicycle Day, this vehicle which, in addition to being a means of transport, is also a symbol of freedom, health and sustainability.

But how did this two-wheeled machine conquer the world and become so present in the lives of so many people around the world? Discover the history of bicycles!

The history of the bicycle dates back to the 19th century, when German Baron Karl von Drais introduced the Laufmaschine, nicknamed the “racehorse”, to the world.

This invention, powered down to earth, was still more of a toy than a practical means of transportation.

Despite this, it was considered a starting point for a journey of innovations that would transform the bicycle into what we know today.

In 1860, Frenchman Pierre Michaux took a crucial step by incorporating pedals into the front wheel of the Laufmaschine, creating the velocipede.

The 1870s saw the emergence of the “high-wheel” bicycle, with a giant front wheel and a much smaller rear wheel. This configuration provided greater speed, but was unstable and prone to accidents.

In 1885, the bicycle finally found its closest form to its current form with the invention of the chain by John Kemp Starley.

The invention allowed pedals to be connected to the rear wheel, providing greater efficiency and control.

Over time, the bicycle has quickly become an economical and efficient means of transportation. In the following decades it evolved technologically, with improvements in materials, design and transmission mechanisms.

During the 20th century, especially in the 1950s and 1960s, the bicycle became extremely popular in many cities around the world, both for daily transport and for leisure.

In recent years, e-bikes have become increasingly popular. They combine traditional bicycle mechanics with electric technology, providing a simpler and more efficient way to get around.

Throughout history the bicycle has not just been a means of transport. She became a protagonist of several sports. Discover some of them!

Road cycling: an endurance test that requires impeccable physical preparation to travel long distances at high speed. Major competitions include grand tours such as the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a España.

Mountain bike: Ideal for adventurers who tackle rugged terrain and challenging trails. It requires technique, strength and endurance to overcome natural obstacles and steep ramps.

BMX: Radical stunts and thrilling maneuvers define this discipline, which requires body control, quick reflexes and a lot of courage. Competitions include dirt jumping, street and park.

Track cycling: carried out in velodromes, with specialized track bicycles. Includes events such as sprints, pursuits and keirins.

Triathlon: a multidisciplinary event that includes swimming, cycling and running. The cycling stage takes place on asphalt roads, requiring a specific road or triathlon bike.

There is also “cyclotourism”, a way of combining the love of cycling with the passion for travel. Cyclists travel long distances, exploring new places and enjoying the beauty along the way.

Beyond sports and transportation, the bicycle has become a symbol of freedom for the feeling of the wind on your face and the autonomy to go where you want, when you want.

Furthermore, cycling is a complete physical exercise that benefits the body and mind, combats sedentary lifestyle, strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular fitness.

Since they do not emit any kind of pollutants, bicycles remain an environmentally friendly means of transport and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

In modern times, with growing awareness of environmental and health issues, the bicycle has seen a resurgence as an economical and healthy means of transportation.

Many cities have implemented infrastructure such as bike lanes and bike sharing systems to encourage their use.