Here are some fun facts about your beloved two-wheeled friend that you probably didn’t know:
Wooden Bikes Were Once a Thing
The first bicycles were made almost entirely of wood, and thousands of them were built and used. However, their popularity declined quickly as the number of accidents soared, leading to their eventual ban by the police.
The World’s Longest Bike
The longest bike ever built was 135 feet and 10.7 inches long. It was constructed by the University of South Australia and Port Adelaide Cycling Club in 2015. To set the Guinness World Record, they had to prove the bike could travel at least 100 meters.
Bikes Don’t Need Riders
Here’s a fascinating bit of cycling science: a bicycle can stay upright without a rider if it is moving at 8mph or faster.
Cyclists Are Cool—It’s a Fact
A 2014 psychological study found that cyclists exhibit a unique blend of intelligence, generosity, and the “cool” factor. Now, there’s another great reason to get on your bike!
Damien Hirst’s $500,000 Bike
The most expensive bike ever sold is Damien Hirst’s Trek Madone, also known as the Butterfly Bike, which was auctioned for $500,000 at Sotheby’s.
A World-Record-Breaking Bike
The largest rideable bicycle has a wheel diameter of 3.3 meters (10 feet 9.92 inches) and was built by Didi Senft from Germany. Quite an impressive feat!
Cycling is Three Times Faster Than Walking
On a bicycle, you can travel three times faster than walking using the same amount of energy. What a wonderful way to get around!
