The draisienne, or “Laufmaschine,” was invented by Karl Drais in 1817 in Germany and is considered the precursor to the modern bicycle. This vehicle, usually made of wood or light metal, had two aligned wheels and steering through a pivoting front fork. It had no pedals and was propelled by pushing the ground with the feet.

Popular in Europe during 1817–1820, the draisienne was used by both children and adults. By the mid-19th century, it evolved into the velocipede, which added pedals to the front wheel, paving the way for penny-farthings and modern bicycles.

• Wooden construction
• No pedals
• No brakes
• Suspended saddle