While The Michaux’s, a father and son team, both carriage-makers, invented the modern bicycle pedal and cranks. Their prototype was developed in 1861. Two wheeled vehicles have existed for quite a long time. In 1690, the celerifere was invented by a Frenchman. It consisted 
of a two wheels, a frame, and a cushion. The rider propelled himself by pushing off the ground with his feet. The first handlebar connected to a

In 1782, James Starley of England invented the highwheeler, a bike with a huge front wheel. Although it was lighter than most of his competitors’ bikes, it was very unstable on uneven terrain. And finally, in 1876 Colonel Albert Pope became the first US manufacturer of bicycles producing a brand called the Columbia highwheeler.

Bicycling is still used in many parts of the world as the primary means of transportation. Much of our culture is centered on this pastime, which is also enjoyed as an Olympic sport. The Tour de France is one of the most prestigious and grueling sports events. While at first glance, it may seem the bicycle is relatively unimportant, it led to a fuller understanding of motion leading to the invention of more complex modes of land transport.

*Picture from Encarta Encyclopedia

• This is a general overview of the history of the bicycle. One of its strong points is that it has good pictures. This is a good place to start learning about the bicycle.

• Talks about the different kinds of bicycles invented throughout history. It is a very factual reference but it doesn’t have diagrams.

"Bicycle". Microsoft Encarta Electronic Encyclopedia Edition 2002.

• Used to double check the other bicycle references. It is not very detailed but had the basic outline needed for general information.