The Baron Karl Von Drais Bikecentennial Velocipede Cup and Birthday Party – June 11

[consularrider]

I’m going to head to the Technoseum in Mannheim instead for the exhibit on the Laufmaschine and subsequent developements.

[washcycle]

Thanks Steve for posting. Here’s the blurb I was going to post:

This year marks the 200th birthday of the bicycle. Come celebrate with a ‘running machine’ race and birthday party. The unique bicycle race will be open to all ages and will not allow any pedaling at all. Kids should bring their skoots and older cyclists should be prepared to remove their pedals. All will get prizes and some will walk away the coveted Baron Karl Von Drais Bikecentennial Velocipede Cup. The race is free but we are suggesting a small donation to Kingman and Heritage Islands. Races start at RFK parking lot, below the East Capitol Street Bridge starting at 3pm on June 11th. Register here.

The races will be followed by a birthday party at Biergarten Haus starting at 5pm.

For more information visit the Washcycle

[Steve O]

Yesterday was the actual 200th birthday of the bicycle. I am copying this below from The Washcycle for your enjoyment:

In addition to being the 50th anniversary of the Loving decision, today is also the 200th birthday of the bicycle. We know that from the journal of the bicycle’s inventor Karl Drais. Below is a translation of his journal entry for that first ever bicycle ride.


“Today I have tested the machine, and it is wondrous. I can cover greater distances with less effort than walking and without requiring a horse. I think it is possible that this will become a useful means of transportation, at least until a method of attaching a motor is developed.

Despite my excitement, I do have some concerns. My ride filled me with such a sense of freedom that I fear I became a bit arrogant and possibly even self-righteous with a willful disregard for the law and for people on foot. Nonetheless, I’m sure that this is a temporary sensation and will not become a problem in the future.

As I rode down the carriageways I was greeted with glances of wonderment and words of encouragement. Shouts of “What are you doing?” “What is that?” and “Get in the bike lane!” echoed behind me as I rode along.

Not all were so positive as many a sideway glance did I get along the way; and when I stopped to allow crossing traffic to pass, Joseph Fischer rudely asked me if I had left my helmet at home.

I rode briefly through town where traffic was heavy and, though I’m embarrassed to admit it, I was at times fearful. It occurred to me that space between the sidewalk and the parked wagons could be set aside for people on this machine (that I will either call the “Laufsmachine”, “Segway” or “Yugo”) so that they may safely traverse dense areas. I’m sure such a common-sense idea will quickly take hold.

One last thing, when I stopped 7th street some jerk shoaled me. I mean really. Could he not see that I was the superior rider? I quickly dropped him and celebrated my victory with a 180 degree nose pivot.”

[DrP]

@Steve O 161456 wrote:

Yesterday was the actual 200th birthday of the bicycle. I am copying this below from The Washcycle for your enjoyment:

Given the fast pace of changes lately, it is kind of refreshing to see that cycling hasn’t changed in 200yr.

[mstone]

Bonus points if you wear the Baron von Drais outfit. Pics please.

[Author]

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