On June 12, 1817, Karl von Drais, a German inventor, rode the earliest form of the bicycle, known as the "dandy horse" or "Draisine." This event marked a significant milestone in the development of personal transportation.
The dandy horse, also called the "running machine," was a two-wheeled, human-powered vehicle without pedals. Riders propelled themselves by pushing their feet against the ground, much like modern-day balance bikes for children. The frame was made of wood, and it featured a steering mechanism that allowed the front wheel to be turned by a handlebar.
Karl von Drais's invention was a response to the need for a more efficient means of travel, particularly following the severe shortage of horses caused by the eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815, which led to the "Year Without a Summer" and widespread agricultural failure.
Drais demonstrated his invention on a route from Mannheim to the Schwetzinger Relaishaus, covering approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) in less than an hour, a remarkable feat at the time. This invention laid the groundwork for the development of modern bicycles, influencing future designs and technological advancements in personal transportation.
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