Biking

Bicycles existed as early as the 1810s, but their uneven wheels, lack of braking systems and bumpy rides made them a novelty. It was not until the safety bike arrived in 1885 that biking became a popular mode of transportation. It provided an easier way for people in Columbus to get around and created mobility for women. In the wake of this invention, the Wright Brothers opened their first bicycle shop in Dayton, Ohio in 1892 called the Wright Cycle Exchange. Cycling also created an increased interest in building better road surfaces. The movement became known as the “Good Roads Movement”, which was headed by bicyclist organization League of American Wheelmen.

In the United States, bicycling became primarily a recreational activity until the 1970s, when environmental concerns and gas prices increased interest. In 1974, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Committee introduced the Regional Bikeway Plan to develop bikeways in Franklin County. Support for safe, accessible bikeways continued into the 20th century. In 2009, Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman implemented the Share the Road campaign, a safety initiative that set out to encourage people to use walking and biking more often in their daily lives.

Early Bicycles

Developed in the 1810s, early bicycles included variations of the number of wheels and often lacked good controls or braking mechanisms.

Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Leona Marie “Dottie” Farnsworth

Dottie Farnsworth competed in bicycle races across the country, advertising Dayton Model H bicycles. Trousers were often worn by women while bicycling and soon became part of everyday fashions.

Harding and bicycle boys

President Warren G. Harding, a Marion, Ohio native, hosted this group of “bicycle boys” at the White House in the 1920s. By the 1930s, the bicycle craze for adults had ended and bicycles were seen largely as amusements for children.

Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Bicentennial Bikeway Plan Announcement

Mayor Michael B. Coleman (left) announced the Bicentennial Bikeway Plan in 2008. The goal of the plan was to shift 10 percent of the city’s transportation to bicycling, walking or public transit.

Scioto-Olentangy Rivers Bike Trail 1980

The Scioto-Olentangy Trail provides a great view of the city. It begins west of downtown Columbus and continues north along the Olentangy River.