Entire Collection
Replica of Draisine Bicycle
Specifications
Replica of Draisine Bicycle
Category
Transportation
Classification
CHENHALL - Distribution & Transportation Objects - Land Transportation T&E - Human-Powered Vehicles - Cycle - Draisine
Object Origin
Museum of Science and Industry
1931
Physical Characteristics
Object Description: Wooden bicycle with a green painted body and yellow painted wheels and decorative accents. The bicycle has a dark green leather seat with a green wooden back. A dark green arm rest is mounted in front of the seat. There are no pedals. The bicycle is foot-propelled with a stick mounted to the front acting as the steering mechanism.
Measurements: Object:
Height: 40 in, Width: 12 in, Depth: 79 in
Credit
Produced by Museum, 31.850
Display Status
On Exhibit
Replica of Draisine Bicycle
About: Replica of Draisine Bicycle
About: Replica of Draisine Bicycle
This is a replica of Baron Karl von Drais’ running machine which led to the creation of the modern bicycle. Often referred to as a draisienne, the running machine was the first self-propelled, two-wheeled vehicle. Created in Germany by Drais in 1817, the running machine consisted of two miniature carriage wheels attached in alignment to a wooden frame. It had a triangular steering column, or tiller, with a padded saddle and an armrest over the pivoting front wheel. To propel the machine, the rider ran their feet along the ground, coasting between steps as the running machine gained speed, which ranged from 5-6 mph. To brake, the rider pulled a cord that stopped the back wheel. The running machine may not look like the pedal bikes we see today, but it represents the first stage in bicycling design which was continued by other inventors. In addition to this replica illustrating the first attempt at a self-propelled, two-wheel vehicle, this running machine has a sentimental significance to Griffin MSI. According to archival records, this running machine was created by the museum staff in 1931 for an exhibition. It is made of wood with metal rims or tires and has a leather covered seat and is operated using the same tiller-style steering utilized by Drais on the first running machine.
Additional information
Copyright information
The objects and content presented on this website have been reviewed for the copyright status to the extent possible. However, if you believe that any material has been used improperly or without proper authorization, please contact us. We are committed to respecting intellectual property rights and will address any concerns promptly.
Have a question or comment about this object? Contact us.