"Every time I see an adult on t bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race."
- H.G, Wells
In May, the United States will be paying tribute to the bicycle with National Bike Month - a celebration of fun, fitness and transportation.
Bicycles were first introduced in Germany and France in the early 1800s. This bike had no pedals and was pushed along by the rider's feet. A more recognizable bike, by modern standards, was introduced in 1885 with the invention of chain drive. Further inventions such as the ability to coast, a somewhat comfortable seat and brakes increased the bike's popularity. By the end of the 19th century, cycling clubs, racing and touring became extremely popular.
Today, bikes are part of nearly everyone's life. A child's first rite of passage is learning to ride a two-wheeled bike. Many of us enjoy bike rides with our families. Lance Armstrong has brought the thrill of bicycle racing to our national attention.
For more information about bicycling:
Middlesex Bike Club (circa 1890) - http://tiny.cc/OV1qZ
Bicycles on Wakefield Common (circa 1890) - http://tiny.cc/8uSa6
Books and magazines:
"The Noblest Invention: an illustrated history of the bicycle," by the editors of Bicycling Magazine; foreword by Lance Armstrong.
Bicycling Magazine's "Cycling for Health and Fitness: use your machine to get strong, lose weight, and feel great." Edited by Ed Pavelka.
Bicycling Magazine, in the Gold Room at the library.
Let your fingers do the walking on the following Web sites:
www.bikeleague.org - National cycling organization.
Closer to home, the Northeast Bike Club may interest you: www.northeastbicycleclub.org -
Events in Massachusetts for National Bike Month: www.massbike.org/events/calendar