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Note: I'm not a medical professional, the things listed below are ones that have worked for me. Talk with your doctor before making any major life changes. Before my daughters, I felt like I could do anything.
When my first daughter was born in 2017 my sleep schedule was tossed out the window, but I was running on a combination of adrenaline, anxiety, and caffeine. Two years later we had our second daughter and life rolled on. By the time she turned two, I noticed that I was dragging, a lot. In the beginning, we would set a nap time for the girls and I would spend that time relaxing and playing video games. Sometimes I would do housework, but this was my time. Later this video game time would become watching a show time, which, I would need to rewind later because I fell asleep. Then I would start choosing shows I’d seen before so that when an “unexpected” nap hit I wouldn’t care that I missed something. In the end, I wouldn’t even bother with the TV, I was so tired. A year or so ago I decided something needed to change. I started with my Doctor first talking about my lifestyle, general health, and medications. Then came a series of tests to check my blood count, white blood cells, creatine, and more. Everything there came back normal so we did a testosterone level check. My one-time test was just fine, which is great because once you go down the path of T Replacement you can’t stop. So, with the obvious things out of the way it was time to look at what I was doing, and how, after reading this WebMD post on the Top 10 Ways to Boost your Energy, a few changes in habit might help. 1. Drink more water: I like to set a challenge for myself and have known for a while that I need to drink more water. On days that I’m at work, I’ll have coffee in the morning and green tea in the afternoon. Depending on the day I’ll go home to another cup of coffee, and finish the day with water (weekday) or a few beers (Friday or Saturday). To help out with this I’ve challenged myself to fill up and drink all of the water from a 1 liter water bottle. I typically start this at lunchtime and finish before I leave for the day. I also created the chart below to help motivate myself. I don’t know if I’ll keep this up after my challenge, but it’s worth it to me to try.  2. Vitamins: Like most people, I’ve been taking a daily vitamin in the morning for several years. According to the WebMD post on the Top 10 Ways to Boost your Energy, Magnesium is more important than I knew, so I decided to look at what I was taking. My vitamin contains all of the essential vitamins I need, at the correct levels, so I didn’t need to change that, but I did change the time I took it. 3. Lift Weights:
I’m not a fan of weightlifting. It’s hard work and I haven’t seen the point in the past. I would happily ride my bike for miles, take a Pilates class, or go for a walk. However, my doctor, my massage therapist, and Dr. Attia are all talking about weight training through lifting heavy weights or resistance training, so I’m jumping in. Currently, I’m focused on a full-body workout with weights three times a week, and cardio (on my bike) when I can. Because the addition of weights is new I’m trying to listen to my body and take rest days when needed. I have a tendency to dive right into something, get sick or injured, and give it up. I’m hoping this will stick. Not every day is a great energy day by the time I get home. The end of the school year tends to be very stressful and it’s harder to encourage burnt-out students to keep working. But I’ve noticed enough of a chance in my mood and energy level that I’ll keep working on this.
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 They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I don’t know if I agree with that, but I do know if that I don’t eat breakfast I start to get lightheaded and angry. Even when I do eat breakfast I find that I’m still looking for a snack around 10:00 am anyway. The idea of breakfast is as old as communication as early humans would find different things to break their fast from the night. However, what we consider to be breakfast today is a newer invention. Before the Agricultural Revolution (roughly around 10,000 BC) people would consume whatever they could, typically leftovers from the last meal. When people started to grow and harvest more grain that would change. Mostly because our diet changed from what we could hunt and gather to almost 80% grain-based. Porridge or oatmeal became a great breakfast as you could cook it overnight. According to Marion Harland’s 1903 Marion Harland’s Complete Cook Book: A Practical and Exhaustive Manual of Cookery and Housekeeping, Containing Thousand of Carefully Proved Recipes “four hours boiling makes oatmeal good, eight hours makes it better, twenty-four hours makes it best.”. We would have to live with this until 1922 when the Quaker company created Quick Oats and Instant Oats in 1966. Over the years I’ve tried a lot of different breakfasts but found that a combination of overnight oats and a small snack a few hours later is the best option. Overnight oats are very easy to make as you prep everything and then refrigerate it for a few hours, or overnight as the name implies. My favorite breakfast is an Apple Cinnamon overnight oatmeal with vanilla Greek yogurt. I prep this on Sunday night typically and will make two servings at the very least, but most often six, because then I use the whole apple.  Recipe:
Method:
3. In the morning I dump one serving into a bowl and heat in the microwave for 1 minute then add my Greek yogurt and mix.  Updated 3/24/2024 Water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit and 0 degrees Celsius. Without protective clothing or heat, we can survive at that temperature for about 10 minutes before hypothermia starts to set in. But those temperatures are nothing when compared to the Worst Day of the Year. The State of Oregon on the west coast of the USA (it’s above California) is typically nice in the winter. If you like cloudy weather. The average low in January is 36 F with a high of 48, while February’s low is 37 and the high is 52. In the Portland area, we don’t often see snow on the ground but we do get rain, in some form, for about half the month. While this may be cold compared to other places in the world it’s certainly safe to bike here all year long. That wasn’t the case on February 2nd, 1950 when the low in Portland was a bone-chilling -3 Fahrenheit -19 Celsius. But that wasn’t the coldest day in our great state, the central Oregon city of Seneca hit -54 on February 10th, 1933. As for snow? That was from January 9th to 18th when over 40 inches fell in Portland.  To “celebrate” this The Worst Day of the Year Ride started in February of 2000 and was typically held each year on a Sunday near Valentine's Day, a time when the weather was predicted to be cold and wet. Most years the ride fell on the nicest day of the month with partially cloudy skies and almost balmy weather. That was until 2014 when the 42-mile challenge ride was canceled due to dangerous conditions. The 15-mile urban route took place that year, but the ride has since moved to the Sunday before Spring Break in March.
The day starts at the Lucky Lab Brew Pub on Hawthorne Blvd with breakfast. In years past this has consisted of a choice of bagel and cream cheese, yogurt and granola, fruit, egg, and of course coffee. After you sign in and get your bib for the day wander around the area admiring the many different bikes that people will ride and of course the costumes. Yes, part of this ride is the costume contest that takes place each year.  There are only a few rides that I’ve enjoyed enough to do year after year and the Worst Day of the Year Rides is always the first on my calendar. Whether you ride the urban route solo, with friends, or towing the kids you’re sure to have a fun and safe ride. The challenge route is one to do without the kudos as the west hills are just too much without an electric bike. But whatever you do it’s sure to be a great day. Sign up today  This year's ride, the 20th anniversary, is in the books. Boy was it a hard one. This year I chose to take on the challenge route. It’s one that I have done before, or so I thought. I thought wrong. In the past, the challenge route started at the Lucky Lab on Hawthorne and headed through Washington Park, home of Portland’s International Rose Test Garden. Then, past the Zoo and along Highway 26 until you hit the Tech district with Intel, Epson, and others as you head to Hillsboro. The McMenamins Cornelius Pass Road House restaurant was the halfway stop. That's just over 16 miles with a climb of 850ft gradual feet. Totally doable. The return trip took us through Multnomah Village to another Lucky Lab and back over the river to the start. Grand total, 37 miles and one steep but short climb of 800 feet followed by a second easy climb. This is what I was expecting today.  Today was a bit different. We started at the Lucky Lab and headed into the West Hills of Portland. The first three miles were perfect, flats or just a bit of a climb through Portland, but the big one started at the end of mile three. From there it was a four-mile climb at a 9% grade that went from 65ft in elevation to 1100ft. But bombing down the other side was amazing! At around mile 15 we started up the hills again and went from 300ft to 947ft in two miles. That wasn’t as hard but I was feeling discouraged after the first climb. It would have helped if I had looked closer at a map to see what was next. The ride continued over the St. John’s Bridge, which has been one of my goals for a while, past the Community Cycling Center, and back to the start location where lunch was served. I had the best chili in the world, funny how much better food tastes when you’ve been working hard. Final verdict; I’ll see you at the Worst Day of the Year Ride next year. However, I might not do the challenge ride again. There will need to be a lot of hill training before the ride if I do.
 It’s a well-known fact that road bikes don’t come with a kickstand. This is a holdover from racing where riders are concerned with every gram of weight. I’ve also heard the argument that some road bikes are so light that a good wind will knock them over when a kickstand is used. While I do believe that in the perfect circumstances that could happen, I don’t think that’s the real reason. However, I can just picture a group of bike designers standing in a parking lot somewhere in California during a high-wind event holding their bikes and fretting that they will fall.  Yeah, no room for a kickstand here. Some road bikes will have enough space between the rear tire and the seat tube, but my Specialized does not. That leaves us with a few options, but it all depends on where we are. Out in the wild, you can lean your bike against almost anything. Bike racks are the best of course, but a handy wall will do. In a parking lot or other open space, you can set your bike up just right so that the pedal will support it.
This left me with two options; one, go and buy a bike stand from the local bike shop or Amazon. Two, build one. As you can guess I went with option two. Supplies: 1 8ft 2x4 (really you will need around 7ft but I don’t know any place that sells one that size) 12 screws Optional: spray paint Steps:
 2. Measure out two 4x4” squares but don’t cut them out. Divide these in half diagonally to make four triangles and cut these out. - I was using a jig saw to do this and made the mistake of cutting the squares out first, then needed to find a way to cut them again without losing a finger. I would suggest cutting the triangles out while you still have more of the board attached to keep your fingers out of the way.  3. Using the feet or the triangles slide a board under the front and back of one of the tires. You want the tire on the ground and the feet in place to keep it from rolling forward or backward. Measure this distance, it will be the length of the side walls. Mine was just a little over 19”, 19 2/16”.  4. Cut this length out of the remaining wood that you have to make the two side walls of the stand. You should now have the following:
 Let's put it together. 5. Find and mark the middle point of both of the feet. This should be 9 ½ “. Then measure the width of your tire. You want to set the walls as close to the tire as you can so the bike will stand upright. Mine came in at 1 ½”, so I made a mark on both sides of the center line at ¾”. 6. Set the feet on top of the walls so you have the correct spacing between the walls and your tire will be centered on the feet. Attach everything together. Test this out with your bike to make sure it is correct.  7. Flip the stand back over and attach the triangle to support the walls.
8. Optional: Paint!  Final note: This was super easy to make, just be careful when you are cutting out the triangles. When I first started using it I would put the back tire in, but I've found that would shift my tire around just a little bit and cause my disc brake to rub. The front tire doesn't seem to have this problem.
 This review is my own opinion. I am not being compensated in any way for this information. All of the photos come from the Dynamic Cyclist website. Sore lower back, sore hips, sore upper back, sore neck… I’m just sore everywhere, and I can’t blame my kids for all of it. My lifestyle doesn’t help. Hours on the bike hunched over stretches out my lower back muscles and rounds my shoulders. As a teacher, I’m often hunched over my computer in the same position trying to grade papers or responding to parent emails. I’d like to think that I was up and moving as I circulated the room or presented information, but according to my Apple Watch, I’m pretty sedentary. Since you’ve found this blog I’m guessing you’re in the same boat. We’re not the only ones.  Everyone and their dog seems to have a website, a YouTube video, a book about getting older, and what you need to do to stay healthy, fit, and pain-free. Currently, Dr. Peter Attia’s Outlive is sitting next to Dan Buettner’s The Blue Zones Challenge, both are cyclists so I have to trust them, on my nightstand waiting for me to finish my current book. I’m not very far along with either, I’ve glanced at both and started Outlive, but I have a feeling they will both say almost the same thing that I’ve been hearing elsewhere “Get seven hours of good sleep, eat right (hard to do in the US with two kids), lift heavy stuff, and work on your mental health. But how when I hurt? That brings me to another group that wants to help us live and ride pain-free, Dynamic Cyclist. Created in 2017 Dynamic Cyclist is a website and app that focuses on stretching every day to loosen the muscles that become tight on the bike and in our sedentary lives. With around 360 stretching videos, all around 20 minutes or less, you have a set stretching exercise every day brought to you by Alisha a certified personal trainer and group fitness coach.
I’ve used Dynamic Cyclist on and off for the past two years now and really a lot of the features;
You will want a Yoga Mat for sure, Yoga Blocks a Strap and Resistance Bands are used in some workouts, and a Foam Roller is great for recovery work. Affiliate Links There are a few downsides, however;
 Pierre Lallement - also credited with creating the Velocipede As we continue our journey through the history of bicycles our next stop comes twenty-one years after the Macmillan Tredal bike. In 1860 we were introduced to the Michaudine velocipede, a revolutionary advancement in bicycle design that captured the imagination of cyclists and engineers alike.  The Michaudine velocipede, named after its inventor Pierre Michaux (credit is also given to Pierre’s son Ernest, and Pierre Lallement. However, it's called the Michaudine Velocipede so we know who history believes), represented a significant departure from earlier versions of the bicycle. Unlike its predecessors, the Dandy Horse and Treadle Bike, which used an awkward propulsion system, the Michaudine featured a groundbreaking innovation: the use of pedals attached directly to the front wheel. This new design allowed riders to power the bicycle by rotating the pedals in a circular motion, transferring energy to the front wheel and moving the bike forward. The addition of pedals on the front wheel marked a departure from traditional designs and offered several key advantages, including improved stability, efficiency, and control. The Michaudine velocipede quickly gained popularity among cyclists and enthusiasts, bringing with it a new era of cycling innovation and experimentation. Its sleek, streamlined frame and pedal mechanism captured the imagination of riders around the world, inspiring a wave of excitement and enthusiasm for the burgeoning sport of cycling. Despite its initial success, the Michaudine velocipede had its limitations. The design, while revolutionary, posed challenges in terms of maneuverability and handling, particularly at higher speeds. Additionally, the reliance on a single large front wheel made the bicycle susceptible to instability and uneven terrain.  Nevertheless, the Michaudine velocipede represented a remarkable leap forward in cycling technology and paved the way for future advancements in bicycle design. Its introduction sparked a period of rapid innovation and experimentation, as inventors and engineers sought to refine and improve upon Michaux's original concept.
In the decades that followed, the bicycle would undergo countless iterations and improvements, evolving into a diverse array of shapes, sizes, and styles. Some we still see today and others are relegated to the museums. Yet, the legacy of the Michaudine velocipede lives on as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its creator, Pierre Michaux, and the enduring spirit of innovation that continues to drive the world of cycling forward.  In the annals of cycling history, one name stands out as a pioneer who forever changed the way we move: Kirkpatrick Macmillan. Born in Scotland in 1812, Macmillan would go on to invent what is widely considered the world's first pedal-driven bicycle in 1839. His invention, often referred to as the "treadle bike," laid the groundwork for the modern bicycle as we know it today.  Prior to Macmillan's innovation, early forms of bicycles, such as the Draisine or Dandy Horse (check out that story here), lacked pedals. Riders would propel themselves forward by pushing off the ground with their feet, making for a cumbersome and inefficient mode of transportation. Macmillan saw the potential for improvement and set out to revolutionize the design.  Inspired by the mechanical principles of the time, Macmillan devised a simple yet ingenious solution: attaching pedals to the rear wheel of the bicycle. This allowed riders to use their feet to push down on the pedals, turning the rear wheel and propelling the bike forward.
Macmillan's invention was a remarkable achievement, considering the technological limitations of the era. Constructed primarily of wood and metal, his treadle bike featured a rudimentary frame and a single large wheel at the front, with the pedals connected directly to the rear wheel via a simple chain or rod mechanism. Reports from the first ride state that Macmillan found it easier to get the bike started by riding with his feet down. The small crowd was then amazed when he lifted his feet to the treadles and rode off down the road to the cheers of some and the horror of others. Many in the area around Dumfrieshire claim that he was able to ride the 14 miles south-west to Dumfries in less than an hour. In 1842 it’s said that he was ready for a longer trip and road 70 miles to Glasgow. This story is aided by newspaper reporters of the time writing about a cyclist on a bike being forced to ride around a crowd to avoid hitting a young girl. He was then stopped and fined five shillings for the offense. The man isn’t named in the paper, but many today believe this was Macmillian. Today, Kirkpatrick Macmillan is remembered as a visionary whose pioneering spirit helped shape the course of history. His invention of the treadle bike in 1839 laid the foundation for a revolution in personal mobility, inspiring generations of inventors, engineers, and cyclists around the world. As we ride forward into the future, let us not forget the humble beginnings of the bicycle and the remarkable journey that began with Kirkpatrick Macmillan and his revolutionary treadle bike of 1839.  This post contains affiliate links As a parent, finding the right gear to make outdoor adventures fun for the whole family is crucial. When it comes to biking with kids, safety and comfort are top priorities. One option that stands out in the market is the Burly Bee Kids Bike Trailer. Features: The Burly Bee Kids Bike Trailer boasts several features designed to enhance both safety and convenience. 1. Durability: Constructed with a sturdy aluminum frame and a tough fabric shell, the Burly Bee is built to withstand various terrains and weather conditions. 2. Safety: Equipped with a five-point harness system, safety flag, and reflective materials, the trailer ensures your child's safety while riding.  3. Comfort: The spacious interior provides ample room for one child, along with storage space for snacks, toys, or other essentials. The trailer also features a mesh screen and weather-resistant cover to protect your little ones from the elements. My daughters are on the small size, I did need to add a thick foam pad to the bottom. This made them high enough so their bike helmet would fit into the more open mesh area in the back.
4. Easy to Attach: The trailer attaches quickly and securely to most bikes using a universal hitch system. It's also easy to detach for storage or transport. 5. Smooth Ride: With 20-inch push-button wheels and a full internal roll cage, the Burly Bee offers a smooth and stable ride for both the cyclist and passengers. Pros: - Excellent build quality and durability ensure long-lasting performance. - Safety features provide peace of mind for parents. - Easy attachment and detachment make it convenient to use. - Smooth ride even on rough terrain. Cons: - The trailer's size may make it challenging to navigate through tight spaces or crowded areas. - The interior space is great for one child with room for snacks and water, but is tight with two. I’ve told my girls many times that I want to make a Plexiglas divider to put in between them. - While the trailer folds flat for storage, it still takes up a significant amount of space. - Higher price point compared to some other options on the market. My experience riding with the Burly Bee Kids Bike Trailer has been overwhelmingly positive. Its sturdy construction, and safety features, make it an ideal choice for family bike rides. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, such as its size and price, the peace of mind knowing my child is safe and comfortable outweighs any concerns. Whether we're cruising around the neighborhood or tackling the library-park-lunch run, the Burly Bee has proven to be a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. If you're in the market for a high-quality bike trailer that prioritizes safety, comfort, and durability, the Burly Bee Kids Bike Trailer is worth considering. Despite a few drawbacks, its overall performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for any family who loves to bike together. So, gear up, hit the road, and enjoy countless memorable rides with your little ones by your side in the Burly Bee Kids Bike Trailer. 
This post includes affiliate links.
Cycling is more than just a means of getting from point A to point B; it's an exhilarating and liberating experience that many cherish. However, for some, the daily commute on two wheels can inadvertently kill the joy of this beloved activity. Let's explore some reasons why your commute might be killing the fun of cycling, and what you can do about it. 1. Riding the same route… riding the same route… Riding the same path day in and day out can turn cycling into a mundane chore rather than an adventure. The excitement of exploration and discovery fades when every ride follows the same predictable path. Solution: Mix things up by exploring alternative routes or taking detours to discover new streets, or, take your bike lock and stop at the coffee shop, or tap-house. Embrace spontaneity and allow yourself to get lost in unfamiliar neighborhoods—you never know what hidden gems you might uncover. 2. Time Pressure The pressure to arrive at work, back home, or appointments on time can turn your leisurely ride into a stressful race against the clock. Constantly checking the time and rushing to beat traffic signals can diminish the enjoyment of cycling. Solution: Give yourself extra time for your commute to reduce stress and allow for a more relaxed pace. Consider leaving earlier or adjusting your schedule to prioritize a leisurely ride over speed. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. If you happen to be an anxious person like myself, consider a less expensive bike computer and leave it on the clock feature to see the time. Bonus: checking your speed is a great indicator of effort and a nice dopamine hit when you’re flying. 
3. Safety Concerns Navigating busy streets and interacting with motor vehicles can be nerve-wracking, especially in areas with poor cycling features, namely anywhere that is not a fully protected pedestrian path. Fear of accidents or close calls can overshadow the joy of riding. Solution: Prioritize safety by familiarizing yourself with local cycling laws and regulations, wearing bright and reflective clothing, and equipping your bike with lights and reflectors. Whenever possible, choose routes with dedicated bike lanes or quieter streets to minimize interactions with traffic. 4. The Weather Weather conditions, such as rain, high wind, or heat, can make your commute feel more like a slog than a joyride. (Why is all wind a headwind?) Solution: Invest in proper cycling gear designed for various weather conditions, such as waterproof jackets, thermal layers, and gloves. Fenders are also a must. Read my article on Bike Fenders here. Plan ahead by checking the weather forecast and adjusting your route or mode of transportation if necessary. And remember, there's a certain satisfaction in conquering the elements and arriving at your destination despite the odds. 5. Work-Life Balance For me, the commute is a necessary transition between work and home life. However, work-related stress and concerns sometimes bleed into the ride, detracting from the joy of cycling and keeping me from fully unwinding. Solution: Use your commute as an opportunity to disconnect and decompress. Listen to your favorite music or podcasts. Bone conducting headphones are great for this as they allow you to listen to both your music and the road. Check out the Shokz OpenMove that I use. Practicing mindfulness techniques, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of your surroundings are great options too. Creating boundaries between work and personal time is a must. So, while the daily commute may pose challenges to the enjoyment of cycling, it's essential to find ways to preserve the fun and excitement of riding. By embracing variety, prioritizing safety, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you can reclaim the joy of cycling and make every ride a memorable adventure. And, really the only other option is to stop commuting during the coldest months of the year.  In the grand tapestry of human innovation, certain inventions stand out as quirky and charming footnotes to our collective history. One such gem is the "Dandy Horse," a precursor to the modern bicycle that wheeled its way into the hearts of enthusiasts in the early 19th century.  Our story begins near the end of the Industrial Revolution. A movement started in Britain, but one that would change the world and bring forth a wave of creativity and technological advancements. In 1817, German Baron Karl Drais invented what he called the "Laufmaschine" or "running machine," which later became known as the Dandy Horse. This wooden contraption featured a handlebar for steering, a simple frame, and two wheels connected in tandem. Riders propelled themselves forward by kicking off the ground with their feet in a walking or running motion, giving birth to the term "Dandy Horse."  While it may seem rudimentary compared to today's sophisticated bicycles, the design of the Dandy Horse was a groundbreaking departure from traditional modes of transportation. The wooden frame, similar to a modern balance bike, allowed riders to coast along, gaining momentum with each stride. The lack of pedals made it more of a walking machine, but it laid the foundation for the evolution of bicycles. While its time on the streets was limited, its entry into the world couldn't have been better, for 1816 would later be called the Year Without Summer. Between 1812 and 1815, the Earth roared with fury as several volcanic eruptions sent shock-waves across continents, impacting weather patterns, agriculture, and even global geopolitics.  Though the Year Without Summer is historically listed at 1816, the worldwide climate would begin its change in 1812 with the eruption of La Soufriere in the Caribbean and Awu in the Dutch East Indies. This was then followed in 1813 with a major lava flow on the small island of Suwanosejima in Japan which cause the abandonment of the island. This time period would end in the Philippines with the eruption of Mount Mayon in 1814. This majestic stratovolcano, known for its near-perfect cone, unleashed its pent-up energy, spewing ash and lava across the landscape. The eruption was a stark reminder of the Earth's untamed power, but little did the world know that this tiny eruption, listed as a level 4 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index, was merely a prelude to a series of even more dramatic events. In 1815, and we find ourselves in the Indonesian archipelago, witnessing one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history – the eruption of Mount Tambora. This colossal VEI-level 7 event, Mount Vesuvius which destroyed the city of Pompeii was only a level 5, not only claimed tens of thousands of lives but also had far-reaching consequences on a global scale. The eruption sent massive amounts of ash and volcanic gases into the stratosphere, leading to the infamous "Year Without a Summer" in 1816.  The aftermath of Mount Tambora's eruption reverberated across the globe, causing a climatic anomaly that would be felt for years to come. The volcanic particles in the stratosphere scattered sunlight, resulting in cooler temperatures and abnormal weather patterns. Crops failed, leading to widespread food shortages, along with social and economic upheaval. This period of climatic hardship forced a change in transportation choices and urban dwellers turned from the traditional horse-drawn carriage to newer and cheaper forms. As the Dandy Horse gained popularity, it became a symbol of elegance and refinement in the early 19th-century European society. The aristocracy embraced it as a fashionable means of transportation, earning it the nickname "Dandy Horse" due to its association with dandies, fashionable and sophisticated men of the time. Not everyone was happy with it. Due to its weight, nearly 50 pounds or as much as an electric bike, difficulty steering, and lack of brakes most people preferred to ride on smooth paths and trails, leading to conflict with other road users. The city of New York was quick to ban its use from footpaths and all public places. However, the Dandy Horse craze was relatively short-lived; by the 1860s, it had started to wane in popularity. While the Dandy Horse itself might not have endured, its legacy lived on in the evolution of bicycle technology. The design laid the groundwork for developing pedals, chains, and eventually the recognizable diamond-shaped frame of the modern bicycle. The Dandy Horse was a humble starting point for a transportation revolution that would eventually transform cities and societies around the world.  In the annals of transportation history, the Dandy Horse stands as a charming and crucial chapter, marking the early steps toward the modern bicycle. Baron Karl Drais's invention not only provided a fashionable means of travel for the elite but also set the wheels in motion for a technological revolution that would change the way people move for centuries to come. Today, as we zip around on our high-tech bicycles, let's take a moment to appreciate the humble beginnings of the Dandy Horse and the role it played in shaping the way we navigate our world.
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AuthorHi, I'm Brian. Forty something father of two and a lover of all things bicycle related. Archives
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