The Bicycles Changed America Essay - 1820 Words

The Bicycles Changed America The great changes in American society that came with the introduction bicycle in the late 19th century are often overshadowed by the influence of the automobile in the following decades. Today, bicycles are often seen as an alternative mode of transportation - a cleaner and more environmentally conscious form of travel. Because of this, it may be difficult to realize the incredible modernizing effects that bicycles had on American society when they were first introduced. Manufacturing and marketing techniques introduced by the bicycle industry were massive steps towards modern industrial practices. In addition, by making individual travel available to many people for the first time, bicycles changed the†¦show more content†¦Drais de Savebrun was aware, however, of some of the important aspects of the draisine that hinted at the future possibilities of bicycles: when roads are dry and firm it runs on a plain at the rate of 8 to 9 miles an hour which is equal to a horses gallo p†¦[and] on descent it equals a horse at full speed. (Smith, 1972, pp 4) The next major development came with the acquisition of pedals. In 1855, the first bicycle with pedals, the velocipede, was invented and became briefly popular when it was brought to the United States. Because of the ride provided by its iron tires and wooden frame, the velocipede became known as the Boneshaker. The excitement around the velocipede died off within a few years, however, as it proved to be difficult to ride, expensive, and dangerous. During the second half of the 19th century, most of the major improvements were made that allowed for the invention of modern bicycles. An iron frame rather than a wooden one, rubber tires (solid rubber, however), rubber-coated pedals and steel rims were all developed during this time. Although the new bicycles, known as Ordinaries, had one wheel much larger than the other, were difficult to mount and dismount, had no brakes, and were expensive, they became much more popular than any of the previous ancestral bicycles. They were promoted on the basis that they provided exercise to the riders, and that they hadShow MoreRelatedThe Invention Of The Bicycle869 Words   |  4 PagesInnovators have constantly changed the world that people now know today, who have may not realized the impact their small inventions would have. Not all innovators create something brand new, as most of the time their work was transformed from something that had already been created and given a market. 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