1-154-952 - Oxford Science Archive/Heritage Images

Six early forms of bicycle, c1870. 19th century hobby horses, fore-runners of the bicycles, including the Dandy Horse, Gompertz's velocipede, the Dublin velocipede and the Bone-Shaker. The 'Dandy Horse' was invented by Baron von Drais in France in 1817, but was only popular for a short period as it was not practical or very comfortable. The velocipede (fast foot) appeared in 1865, and had pedals applied to the front wheels. It was popularly known as the 'Bone Shaker', the combination of wood and metal tyres and cobblestoned streets made for a very uncomfortable ride.