In 1817 Baron von Drais invented a walking machine that would help him get around the royal gardens faster.
The device know as the Draisienne (or "hobby horse") was made of wood, and propelled by pushing your feed on the ground in a gliding movement.
It was not seen a suitable for any place other than a well maintained pathway.
In 1865, the velocipede (meaning "fast foot") attached pedals to the front wheel, but its wooden structure made it extremely uncomfortable.
In 1870 the first all-metal machine appeared. The pedals were attached directly to the front wheel.
Solid rubber tires and the long spokes of the large front wheel provided a much smoother ride than its predecessor.