The fascinating history of cycling in 15 photos

There are in the notebooks of Leonardo DeVinci, a drawing for an object that looks a lot like a bicycle. It has two wheels and even a pedals. But as the authenticity is questioned, we attribute the invention of the bicycle to the German baron Karl von Drais, in 1817. This will also be called the balance bike. Gradually, throughout the XIXe century, the vehicle will experience multiple innovations that will bring the velocipede closer to its current form today. After the appearance of the crankset, still more convenient then, later, the tire, cycling will be a huge success in France and around the world. The first race will take place in 1867 and the first Touring Club of France will see the day in 1890. Until then, the famous Grand Bi or michaudine, ancestor of the bicycle, have especially followers in the more affluent classes who love to show themselves with.

But, then, with the arrival of theautomobile, they will leave them. This will not affect the expansion of the bike. Popular with workers and peasants, it will become more and more popular. These will be the beginnings of the production of mass. The bicycle is also adopted by women who see it as an opportunity to emancipate themselves. Besides, the law will allow them to wear pants but only when they are riding … bicycles!

During the second half of the XXe century, the bicycle will experience a renaissance in the face of the conquering automobile in cities and countryside. More sporty models are emerging, straight from California. Little by little, cycling is taking over territories, especially in large urban agglomerations saturated with motorized transport and aspiring to breathe a air less polluted. Discover the history of cycling in 15 vignettes, from the balance bike to the electric bike, including the unicycle and the mountain bike. A story that reflects the changes in French society over the past two centuries.