Early bicycles looked surprisingly like the high-tech bikes we see today, except they were made of wood and metal, and had no brakes or pedals. The first patent for what we might consider a bike was issued in Germany in 1818.
Since then, bikes’ popularity has had its ups and downs. But biking today is at an all-time high. Cities across the U.S. and around the world have introduced public bike-sharing systems, in which heavy-duty bikes are parked in stalls. Both locals and tourists can rent them to run errands or see a city’s sights. Bicycle commuters are still uncommon in many major U.S. cities, but their numbers have been on the rise.
For some, bicycles are a speedy alternative to walking. But they’re also a relatively inexpensive, combustion-free alternative to cars or public transportation, so they’re more environmentally friendly. Biking is good exercise—or just a fun way to spend an afternoon.
In Europe and Asia, electric bicycles are popular. They can be pedaled like other bikes, but they also have electric motors to assist riders up the more difficult hills!
So whether you’re careening down a hillside, cruising around the neighborhood, or headed to school, there’s a different bike for every need. Who knows what the next trend could be?
Keep an eye out for bikers in May, which is National Bike Month. It includes Bike to School Day on May 10, and Bike to Work Day on May 19.