Historians disagree about the true inventor of the bicycle due to confusion over the exact origin. Evidence suggests that several inventors built quite similar machines around the same period of time in the 19th Century. Earnest Michaux invented the pedal and crank in 1861 which is fundamental to the development of the modern bicycle. These were the earliest precursors to the modern bicycle although they were much different to the bikes that we recognise today. The bicycles invented in Victorian times were known as velocipedes. The velocipedes were incredibly difficult and dangerous to ride. They had very large wheels and solid tyres. It is no surprise that the most famous is known as the “Boneshaker” (invented by Michaux) due to its naturally bumpy ride quality. Another well known example is the “Penny-farthing” (invented by Walter Hunt) which also proved to be quite a challenge for the rider.
The modern bicycle is a descendant of these early creations. John Kemp Starley invented the safety bicycle in 1885. It was known as the safety bicycle because it was much safer to ride than the much more dangerous velocipedes that it would ultimately replace. The safety bicycle had two small equally sized wheels and incorporated a crank and pedals fixed to rear mounted sprocket. Since its conception the safety bicycle has continued to evolve and diversify into a myriad of different styles. Despite the modern bicycles numerous incarnations and developments it is essential the same as the original safety bicycle invented by John Kemp Starley 123 years ago.
Starting Out with Bicycling
Initially you can use any type of bicycle available to get started. Once you have established that this is a sport you want to do regularly, it is time to buy a bicycle to suit your needs. Many cyclists start out using a mountain bike or MTB. As the name suggest these bikes are not intended for cycling on the road. They have very low gears designed for riding on loose surfaces (gravel, dirt tracks etc). To improve the road rolling of these bicycles for the road you can add road tyres. If you intend to ride on roads all the time consider a road bike, touring bike or a hybrid (also known as a fitness bike). Road bikes (also known as racers) have light frames and are designed for speed. Touring bicycles are similar but have stronger frames and are designed to carry loads. These bikes can be used for expeditions and trekking. Hybrids (sometimes called fitness bikes) are designed to fill the void left between road bikes and heavier comfort bicycles. This makes them a good choice for commuters or casual riders. A hybrid is more suited to the road than a mountain bike but has many similar features. Hybrids are also suitable for carrying loads or packages.
Bicycling is a great way to improve your health and fitness. It is an aerobic exercise which means that it is a type of physical exercise that will improve the cardiovascular system in absorbing and transporting oxygen around the body. This means that riding a bicycle makes your heart, lungs and muscles work more efficiently as your fitness level increases. It may be quite tough at first depending on the status of your own health. It takes time and effort to build up your confidence, stamina and muscle strength. It is advisable that you begin cycling over short distances and remember to allow for the journey back to your start point! Gradually increase the distance of your bicycle rides taking care not to over stretch yourself. It is advisable to do a short warm up exercise prior to cycling. This will reduce the chance of muscular injuries. I took up cycling again after a long break to help overcome some health and fitness problems. Provided that you are riding the bicycle in a sensible way, cycling does not put as much strain on your knees or other joints as many other physical sports. In fact you can use cycling as a form of transport and not appear to be exercising. In reality 30 minutes of cycling a day is an adequate form of exercise provided that you are not free-wheeling down a steep hill or riding in the lowest gear on a flat road. This would still do your health more good than sitting in a chair eating biscuits and doughnuts.
Some Popular Reasons to Take up Bicycling
• Lose Weight
• Gain Confidence
• Aerobic exercise
• Improved Fitness
• Improved Health
• Save Fuel, Money and the Planet!
• Recreation & Sport
Try and find a route that does not have a lot of traffic and if possible find a circuit (or loop). I believe that psychologically loops or circuits are easier to ride than going to a certain place and back again. Unless the place you go to is all uphill (and a headwind) and going back again is downhill! When you feel ready you can begin riding longer distances. Try not to over extend yourself on long rides. Always make sure you have a drink (water) with you especially on hot days. Most bikes are compatible with at least one bottle bracket somewhere on the frame. There should be two small threaded bolts attached to the frame to take the bottle cage or bracket/s. In the beginning do not be over concerned with times and distances. Just try to settle into a steady pace and enjoy the wildlife and scenery. If you do get tired take a short rest in safe place and resume once you have your breath back. I have a few problems myself with (mild) asthma which makes me need to take more rest breaks than I would like on very cold days. That is another point, cycling is not just for fair weather. It can be great fun in all weather including the rain.
12 Hints on How to Ride Your Bicycle Safely
- Wear a suitable cycling safety helmet.
- Obey traffic laws, rules and regulations and keep off pedestrian areas. Sidewalks, pavements and footpaths.
- Always ride with the traffic not against it. Stay close to the curb in built up areas and to the side of the road in rural areas. In fact the recommended distance (in the UK) is 1m from the curb. This is thought to make the rider more visible to motorists.
- Be careful of hazards in the road such as drain covers and other obstacles.
- When passing parked cars and vehicles allow for opening doors.
- Avoid carrying large or awkward packages or loads that make the cycle unstable or obstruct your controls (gears and brakes).
- Avoid listening to music or the radio on your MP3 player whilst cycling.
- Take extra care when approaching road junctions or taking left or right turns.
- Use hand signals to indicate your intentions to slow down or make a turn to other road users.
- In poor light and darkness always use an appropriate set of bicycle lights.
- Wear light or bright colours to make you more visible whilst cycling.
- Cycle in an appropriate bicycle clothing for the conditions and terrain.
I really hope this article has inspired a few people to get on a bicycle and enjoy a bicycle ride. Please read my next post about Bicycle Maintenance
Jimmy Riddle
