Bicycles are simply the best

More and more people are currently switching to bicycles — not only for the sake of the environment or because exercise is good for them, but also because it's a safe alternative to public transportation to avoid getting infected by the coronavirus.

In 1817, Karl Friedrich Freiherr von Drais invented a wooden two-wheeler, called the "Draisine." It was difficult to use on the uneven and dirty streets of the time, but pedestrians weren't ready to share sidewalks with the new velocipede either. That model did not prevail.

Another model was presented to the public at the Paris World Exhibition in 1867, inaugurating a new era for the bicycle. English inventor James Starley came up with the penny-farthing, also known as the high wheeler. It could reach speeds of up 30 km/h (18 mph). However, every pothole inevitably led to a fall from a great height, which is why the model came to be referred to as the "widowmaker."

Bicycles have long become a means of mass transportation around the world. Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Münster are renowned as bike-friendly cities, with numerous cycle lanes, but other major cities are still very dangerous for cyclists. London (photo) is one of them — although during the coronavirus lockdown, way more people were pedaling in the car-free streets.

The car is still the dominant mode of transport in many German cities. When there are bike paths, they are often full of potholes. Municipalities are slowly converting car lanes into separate cycle lanes, and new bike paths are being created too. But many people find this isn't happening quickly enough, and they take to the streets to protest — on their bikes, of course.

While drivers are often stuck in traffic, as a cyclist you can usually wind your way through cars to avoid waiting. And compared to office workers who are simply cycling to work, bicycle couriers often zip by at speeds that may catch pedestrians off-guard.

For a long time they were disparaged as cheat bikes; their riders were assumed to be either the elderly or people who are simply too lazy to pedal. That's now over: e-bikes are gaining popularity across the board, not only among senior citizens. They are available in all possible variations — from comfortable leisure bikes to sporty trekking models.

If you own such an expensive bike, you should definitely protect it with a "smart" electronic lock that allows you to locate it with your phone. Bicycles are coveted stolen goods that can easily be transported abroad and sold. A secure bike lock is also a must.

If you rent a bike, you don't have to worry about maintenance and theft protection. More and more providers are entering the market, allowing people in major cities to have easy access to a bicycle. But the current startup situation has its downsides, as the various companies' models are parked just anywhere and often clog sidewalks.

Devoted cyclists won't let go of their bikes — not even on their wedding day. Instead of getting into a horse-drawn carriage or being driven in a fancy car, this bride and groom ride off on their big day. And even on two wheels, they can still hold hands.