Early Form Of Bicycle Crossword Clue
Have you ever played a crossword puzzle and got stuck on a clue that reads "early form of bicycle"? Many people have encountered this clue, but don't know the answer.
The answer to this crossword clue is "velocipede". A velocipede is an early form of a bicycle that was popular in the 19th century. It was a human-powered vehicle with two or three wheels and no pedals. Riders would push themselves forward with their feet, similar to a child's tricycle.
The Invention of the Velocipede
The velocipede was invented in the early 1800s by a German baron named Karl von Drais. He called his invention the "laufmaschine", which means "running machine" in German. It was designed as an alternative to horse-drawn carriages, which were expensive and not accessible to everyone.
The laufmaschine was made entirely of wood and had two wheels, a handlebar for steering, and a padded seat for the rider to sit on. The rider would push themselves forward with their feet, using a walking motion to move the bike forward.
The laufmaschine was an instant success, and it quickly spread throughout Europe. People of all ages and social classes were riding the new invention, and it became a popular pastime.
The Evolution of the Velocipede
Over time, the velocipede evolved into different forms. In 1865, Eugene Meyer invented the "boneshaker", which had metal rims and wooden spokes. This new design was more durable and comfortable than the original laufmaschine.
In 1870, the "ordinary" or "high-wheel" bicycle was invented. This design had a much larger front wheel and a smaller back wheel. It also had pedals, which allowed riders to move the bike forward with their feet. However, the high-wheel bicycle was difficult to ride and dangerous, and it was only accessible to wealthy men.
In the early 1880s, the "safety bicycle" was invented. This design had two wheels of equal size, a chain that connected the pedals to the rear wheel, and a lower center of gravity. It was much easier and safer to ride than the high-wheel bicycle, and it quickly became popular among men and women of all social classes.
The Legacy of the Velocipede
The velocipede was a revolutionary invention that changed the way people traveled and moved around the world. It paved the way for modern bicycles, which are now a popular mode of transportation and a favorite hobby for millions of people around the globe.
The velocipede also had a significant impact on society. It allowed people to travel farther and faster than ever before, which opened up new opportunities for work and leisure. It also helped to break down social barriers and bring people together, regardless of their class or background.
Today, the velocipede is remembered as a landmark invention that changed the course of history. It is celebrated by historians, cyclists, and enthusiasts around the world, and it continues to inspire new generations of inventors and innovators.