A brief history of the bicycle. In 1817
Baron von Drais of
Baden invented a “running machine” to
help him move more quickly around his estate. The
“Draisienne”, seen above, as it was known, briefly became a
fashionable toy for the upper classes in
Paris and
London
. It was not until 1860
when a French mechanic, Pierre Michaux, attached cranks to the
front wheel of a Draisienne was the bicycle as we really know
it invented. Gears, brakes and pneumatic tyres were eventually
added.
The popularity of cycling opened up new horizons
for many people in the nineteenth century by allowing them to
travel beyond their home community - this was especially
important for women, and can be seen now also in the
developing world. Finally, competitive cycling provided one of
the earliest forms of mass spectator sport in modern times.
Today’s bicycles are a far cry from the Draisienne with ultra
lightweight frames and wheels, front & rear shock
absorbers and disc brakes.
It is estimated that there are over 1.5 billion
bicycles in use over the planet. In the western world, cycling
is seen more as a sport or recreation but also an important
mode of transport for the modern commuter.
I had not ridden a bike for 10 years, but was
looking forward to getting back in the saddle. I do ride a
motorcycle so two wheels are not alien to me. It is the law
here in
Spain
whilst riding
a bicycle to wear a helmet, so before you take to the roads
make sure you’re well equipped and also at night lights are
not only essential but very sensible. My first ride was a very
sedate affair along the beach here in
Mojácar
Beach
away from the traffic. The following day I ventured a little
further and rode from Mojácar to Sopalmo. This was not as
sedate as the previous day and required more concentration and
awareness. I was now mixing with traffic. Most drivers gave me
ample room whilst over-taking while there were a couple of
cars that could have been a little more courteous. Not being
the fittest being, the gradients were quite tiring but a sense
of achievement was felt reaching the small peaks and then free
wheeling down. For those of you that don’t know the route, the
last 2km is a steady increasing climb (still not too steep)
which with the help of the gears wasn’t too bad. Naturally, I
then stopped at the bar for a non alcoholic well deserved
drink. The return journey seemed a lot shorter and more
enjoyable. The following day my legs did feel a little stiff
and I was glad I only attempted a short ride.
There are plenty of more level areas in both
Roquetas and the Mojácar area with some designated cycle
routes and usually by the sea for those that don’t fancy the
more strenuous routes. Why not rent a bike and try
it.
I was very glad I borrowed a bike and may well
now buy one. Not only is it an environmentally sensible mode
of transport it is also a very good way to keep fit. For those
of you that just fancy a leisurely ride, there are plenty of
places to safely cycle and usually a few watering holes along
the way. For the more adventurous, who take their cycling
seriously, there are plenty of clubs to join.
For the more serious
cyclist visit the Almanzora Cycling club cyclingadventures.co.uk
