A Bicycling We Will Go

Purpose: To discover how the design of bicycles has changed over time as technology has developed

Materials

• print resources
• encyclopedias
• internet
• science journal

Background

Nobody knows exactly when the first bike was invented, but in the late 1700s there was a “hobbyhorse” that had wooden wheels, but no pedals. Their riders had to ride it by pushing it with their feet, and if they wanted to get off, they had to drag their feet until it stopped. Needless to say, only really strong people were able to ride a “hobbyhorse.” Through the years as technology became better, the bicycle began to change. Today there are many styles and kinds of bicycles to choose from. Bicycles are not only used for riding pleasure, but have also been adapted to do various jobs, such as a street sweeper and ice cream cart. You may even use yours for a paper route.

Web Sites

• Japanese Bicycle History Research Club
  Explore the history of bicycling in Japan. Includes photo galleries, articles and more.
  http://www.eva.hi-ho.ne.jp/ootsu/
• National Bicycle History of America Association (NBHAA)
  Web site dedicated to the identification, cataloging, and restoration of American bikes from 1920-1965.
  http://members.aol.com/oldbicycle/
• Bicycles, History, Beauty, Fantasy
  This web site has great pictures and historical accounts of bicycles from 1863 to 1901.
  http://users.rcn.com/eye/bicycles.html

Procedure

1. Use the various print and internet resources to trace the history of the bicycle.
2. Write a one to two page report showing how technology changed the way the bicycle looks and works. Describe how the features of the various designs of the bicycle help to accomplish its purpose.
3. If possible, cut and paste pictures from various web sites for your report.
4. Present your report to the class.