Cycles of Change

Efficiency in human-powered transport depends on moving energy from the legs to the ground through a mechanical interface. Early bicycles used a direct-drive system where the pedals were attached to the front axle. This creation resulted in a massive problem for the rider because travel speed was [...]

In the 1960s, bicycles looked similar to modern bikes but functioned quite differently. They had two wheels, pedals, and handlebars, yet lacked the sophistication of current designs. Bicycles were simpler machines with fewer gears. The drive train, consisting of the chain, gears, and derailleurs [...]