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Primitive bicycle, a form of dandy horse, c1818
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Primitive bicycle, a form of dandy horse, c1818
Primitive bicycle, a form of dandy horse, c1818. The dandy or hobby horse was the forerunner of the bicycle and was invented by Baron von Drais in France in 1817. It was introduced to England the following year by Denis Johnson, a coachmaker of Long Acre, London, who described it as a pedestrian curricle. Dandy horses had no pedals or brakes, but were propelled by the rider pushing on the ground with his feet, and dragging the feet to slow the machine. Johnson started a school where prospective purchasers could learn how to ride the machine, and in 1819 fashionable London society was briefly gripped by a craze for riding a hobby horse
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Media ID 14836134
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Baron Karl Von Drais Bicycle Bicycles Bike Cycling Denis Drais Hobby Horse Innovation Invention Johnson Pedestrian Hobbyhorse Wheel Ann Ronan Pictures Wood Engraving
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the history of transportation - the birth of the bicycle. The image showcases a primitive bicycle, known as a dandy horse or hobby horse, dating back to 1818. Invented by Baron Karl von Drais in France just a year earlier, this innovative contraption was introduced to England by Denis Johnson. The dandy horse featured in the photo is an intriguing sight with its wooden frame and simplistic design. It lacked pedals or brakes, requiring riders to propel themselves forward by pushing their feet against the ground and using their feet as makeshift brakes when needed. To popularize this new mode of transport, Johnson even established a school where potential buyers could learn how to ride it. During its time, London society experienced a short-lived craze for riding these peculiar machines. This print serves as an invaluable glimpse into that era of innovation and curiosity surrounding road transport. As we admire this historical artifact captured through wood engraving, we can't help but appreciate how far technology has advanced since then. From this humble beginning emerged one of humanity's most beloved inventions - the modern-day bicycle - which continues to revolutionize our lives today.
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