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Lewis Gompertzs improvement on Baron von Draiss bicycle, 1821
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Lewis Gompertzs improvement on Baron von Draiss bicycle, 1821
Lewis Gompertzs improvement on Baron von Draiss bicycle, 1821. The dandy or hobby horse was the forerunner of the bicycle and was invented by Baron von Drais in France in 1817. It was introduced to England the following year by Denis Johnson, a coachmaker of Long Acre, London. Dandy horses had no pedals or brakes, but were propelled by the rider pushing on the ground with his feet, and dragging the feet to slow the machine. Gompertz improved on von Drais design by adding a rack-and-pinion to power the front wheel
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Media ID 14836142
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Baron Karl Von Drais Bicycle Bicycles Bike Cycling Denis Drais Hobby Horse Improved Improvement Innovation Johnson Lewis Mechanism Pedestrian Hobbyhorse Spokes Steering Wheel Ann Ronan Pictures Rack And Pinion Wood Engraving
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the remarkable innovation of Lewis Gompertz's improvement on Baron von Draiss' bicycle in 1821. Known as the dandy or hobby horse, this early form of transportation paved the way for the modern bicycle we know today. Invented by Baron von Drais in France in 1817, it was introduced to England a year later by Denis Johnson. Unlike contemporary bicycles, these dandy horses lacked pedals or brakes. Instead, riders propelled themselves forward by pushing their feet against the ground and used dragging their feet to slow down. However, Gompertz took this design further by adding a rack-and-pinion mechanism to power the front wheel. The intricate wood engraving showcases every detail of this nineteenth-century marvel. The monochrome aesthetic adds a touch of nostalgia and highlights its historical significance. The image depicts spokes that connect each part with precision while emphasizing the importance of mechanical engineering during that era. This print is not just an artistic representation; it symbolizes progress and human ingenuity at its finest. It reminds us how far we have come in terms of transportation technology and serves as a testament to our constant pursuit of improvement. Whether you are fascinated by cycling history or simply appreciate technological advancements, this print will transport you back to a time when wheels were revolutionizing road transport one pedal-less push at a time.
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