History and evolution of the bicycle

The invention of the bicycle provided mankind with the first two-wheeled means of human transport. Its evolution over time also enabled the emancipation of women, becoming a symbol of progress, leisure, freedom and fun.

Its value has been perpetuated over time, and this historic means of transport now represents hope for a better future capable of marking a change of course from the current climate situation and growing world obesity.

Its invention dates back to 1817 in Germany, but over the years other inventors around the world appropriated the idea, revisiting the first model. The most famous was Londoner Denis Johnson, who created a more modern and improved version, almost entirely carved in wood and with a manoeuvrable front wheel.

Around 1860, Pierre Michaux developed the first two-wheeled bicycle that was a huge commercial success. This model was characterised by the addition of pedals and rotating cranks on the front wheel that allowed the rider to move the bicycle forward by pedalling.

Towards the end of the 19th century, an era in cycling began that was christened 'cycling madness'. There were quite major effects on the role of women in society, so the bicycle was also given the new nickname 'freedom machine'.

The revolution also invaded fashion, women who were able to cycle needed much more practical and comfortable clothes than those typical of Victorian fashion. Thus, more practical clothing for women, such as bulging trousers or trouser skirts, made their appearance.

In 1920 with the Great Depression and especially later with World War II the general mood of the world changed. It was the automobile that took over and the largest percentage of bicycles sold was for children, not adults.

In the cities, cyclists were often teased by drivers, as the car became the preferred means of transport for most people.

1960 paved the way for the fabulous 1960s and later the kaleidoscopic 1970s, a period of hope, promise and freedom of expression.

Awareness of the importance of keeping fit began to grow, so bicycle sales began to double. It was during these years that the BMX bike was born, its design inspired by motocross champions, and its popularity quickly spread into popular culture thanks to its appearances in classic films such as E.T and the Karate Kid.

And so we come to the present day, the early 2000s marked the beginning of the hipster movement born in the United States in places like Brooklyn and New York . Major clothing brands embraced this movement, finally leading to the disappearance of those garments that forced cyclists to wear lycra suits.

Clothing brands are thus launching stylish and practical garments, finally giving cyclists the chance to dress fashionably too. In major European cities such as Amsterdam and London, bike sharing programmes are being launched, in short a return to simplicity with the most functional means of transport ever.

The bicycle has once again become the most popular means of transport among all those who wish to reconnect with their surroundings and the environment.