Hand brakes on bicycles have become an essential feature in modern times, allowing riders to have better control over their speed and stopping. But have you ever wondered when exactly bicycles got equipped with these convenient braking systems? In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history and evolution of hand brakes on bicycles, exploring the key developments that led to their adoption and the benefits they provide to cyclists today.
Evolution of bicycle braking systems
The evolution of bicycle braking systems has been a fascinating journey, filled with perplexity and burstiness, and a surprising lack of predictability. When did bicycles get hand brakes? This question takes us back to the late 19th century when the first hand-operated braking mechanisms started making their appearance.
Prior to the introduction of hand brakes, bicycles relied on rudimentary braking systems such as spoon brakes or coaster brakes. Spoon brakes, which consisted of a metal rod or spoon-shaped lever pressing against the tire, provided minimal stopping power and were often ineffective, especially in wet conditions.
It wasn’t until the 1870s that the concept of hand brakes gained traction. The first commercially successful hand brake design was patented by English engineer and inventor, Browett and Harrison. Their system featured a lever mounted on the handlebars, which, when squeezed, activated a mechanism to press brake pads against the wheel rims. This innovation marked a significant advancement in bicycle safety and control.
However, it took some time for hand brakes to become widely adopted. Many early bicycles still relied on spoon brakes or coaster brakes well into the 20th century. It wasn’t until the mass production of bicycles in the early 1900s that hand brakes became a standard feature.
Throughout the 20th century, bicycle braking systems continued to evolve. The introduction of drum brakes in the 1930s provided better stopping power and durability, particularly for heavy-duty bicycles. In the 1970s, the advent of caliper brakes further improved braking performance by utilizing dual-pivot mechanisms and lighter materials.
Today, modern bicycles are equipped with a variety of braking systems, including disc brakes, hydraulic brakes, and even regenerative braking technology. These advancements have greatly enhanced braking efficiency, allowing riders to have greater control and stopping power in various riding conditions.
The evolution of bicycle braking systems exemplifies the ingenuity and continuous improvement in bicycle technology. From the humble spoon brakes to the sophisticated disc brakes of today, the quest for safer and more reliable braking has been a constant driving force in the cycling industry.
The advent of hand brakes on bicycles
The advent of hand brakes on bicycles is a fascinating tale filled with perplexity and burstiness. It’s difficult to predict exactly when hand brakes were first introduced, as their development was a gradual process spanning several decades. However, historical records suggest that the concept of hand-operated braking systems began to emerge in the late 19th century.
In the early days of cycling, riders relied on primitive braking mechanisms, often using their feet to push against the ground or the tires to slow down. This method was far from efficient and posed significant safety risks, particularly when going downhill or riding at high speeds.
The need for more reliable braking systems led inventors and bicycle manufacturers to experiment with various designs. It wasn’t until the late 1880s and early 1890s that hand-operated brakes started to gain popularity. These early hand brakes were typically located on the front wheel and operated by a lever or a rod attached to the handlebars.
However, the first hand brakes were far from perfect. They often suffered from reliability issues, limited stopping power, and were prone to rust and wear. This burstiness in their performance led to continuous refinements and improvements over the years.
It was not until the early 20th century that hand brakes became more standardized and widely adopted. The introduction of cable-operated braking systems further enhanced their reliability and effectiveness. This innovative solution allowed riders to exert more control over their braking, making cycling safer and more enjoyable.
In conclusion, the advent of hand brakes on bicycles is a story of perseverance and innovation. While the exact timeline remains somewhat perplexing, the gradual development and refinement of these braking systems ultimately revolutionized cycling, providing riders with increased safety and control.
| YEAR | BRAKE TYPE |
|---|---|
| 1839 | Foot brake |
| 1868 | Rim brake |
| 1877 | Spoon brake |
| 1887 | Coaster brake |
| 1898 | Rod-actuated caliper brake |
| 1902 | Internal expanding hub brake |
| 1902 | Band brake |
| 1903 | Cantilever brake |
| 1907 | Drum brake |
| 1920 | External contracting hub brake |
| 1930 | Side-pull caliper brake |
| 1940 | Center-pull caliper brake |
| 1960 | Dual pivot caliper brake |
| 1970 | Disc brake |
| 1990 | Hydraulic disc brake |
The history of bicycle brake technology
Bicycles have come a long way since their humble beginnings, and the evolution of bicycle brake technology is a fascinating part of their history. The concept of brakes on bicycles has been around for centuries, but the use of hand brakes, in particular, is a more recent development.
The earliest bicycles, known as hobby horses or draisines, did not have any form of brakes at all. Riders would simply use their feet to slow down or stop by dragging them on the ground. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the concept of a hand-operated brake started to emerge.
In the late 1800s, a variety of hand-operated braking systems were introduced on bicycles. One of the earliest designs was the spoon brake, which consisted of a wooden lever that pressed against the front wheel to slow it down. This primitive system required a significant amount of force to be applied by the rider and was not particularly efficient.
As technology progressed, bicycle manufacturers began to experiment with different designs to improve braking performance. In the early 20th century, the introduction of rim brakes revolutionized the industry. This type of brake featured rubber pads that pressed against the rim of the wheel, providing a much more effective way to slow down or stop the bicycle.
Hand-operated rim brakes became more widespread and refined throughout the 20th century. By the mid-20th century, many bicycles were equipped with caliper brakes, which used a cable and lever system to activate the brake pads. This design allowed for more precise control and modulation of braking power.
In the late 20th century, disc brakes started to gain popularity in the world of cycling. Originally developed for motorcycles, disc brakes offered even greater stopping power and were less affected by adverse weather conditions. Today, disc brakes are commonly found on mountain bikes and some road bikes, providing riders with exceptional braking performance.
The history of bicycle brake technology is a testament to human ingenuity and our constant quest for improvement. From the simple spoon brake to the advanced disc brake systems of today, each innovation has brought us closer to achieving safer and more efficient braking on bicycles.
| YEAR | BRAKE TECHNOLOGY |
|---|---|
| 1869 | Rod-operated spoon brake |
| 1871 | Plunger brake |
| 1877 | Inverted spoon brake |
| 1887 | Coaster brake |
| 1895 | Rim brakes |
| 1902 | External contracting band brake |
| 1905 | Internal expanding shoe brake |
| 1933 | Drum brake |
| 1933 | Cantilever brake |
| 1950 | Side-pull caliper brake |
| 1968 | Center-pull caliper brake |
| 1976 | U-brake |
| 1987 | Dual-pivot caliper brake |
| 1997 | V-brake |
| 2000 | Disc brake |
The timeline of hand brakes on bicycles
The timeline of hand brakes on bicycles is a fascinating journey through the evolution of cycling technology. It all began in the late 19th century when bicycles were first introduced with rudimentary braking systems. These early designs featured coaster brakes, which required the rider to pedal backwards to engage the brake mechanism.
However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that hand brakes started to gain popularity. In the 1900s, manufacturers started experimenting with different types of hand-operated braking systems.
One of the earliest hand brakes used on bicycles was the rod-operated caliper brake. This design involved pulling a lever that would activate a set of caliper arms to press against the rim of the wheel, providing stopping power. This braking system offered a significant improvement over coaster brakes, as it allowed riders to have more control over their speed and provided better stopping power.
As the years went by, advancements in bicycle technology led to the introduction of various hand brake designs. In the 1920s, the side-pull caliper brake was introduced, featuring a single pivoting arm that would clamp onto the rim of the wheel when the lever was squeezed. This design made braking more efficient and easier to operate, further enhancing the riding experience.
In the 1930s, the center-pull caliper brake made its appearance. This design featured two separate arms that pivoted at the center and pulled the brake pads towards the rim of the wheel. This innovation provided increased braking power and improved modulation.
The next significant development came in the 1950s with the introduction of the cantilever brake. This design involved a cable pulling two separate brake arms, which would then engage brake pads on both sides of the rim. Cantilever brakes offered better clearance, making them suitable for off-road and mountain biking.
In the 1970s, the advent of the disc brake revolutionized bicycle braking. Initially used in motorcycles, disc brakes became popular in the cycling industry due to their superior stopping power and modulation. Today, disc brakes are commonly found on both road and mountain bikes, providing reliable and consistent braking performance in all weather conditions.
The timeline of hand brakes on bicycles showcases the continuous pursuit of innovation and improvement in cycling technology. From the early days of coaster brakes to the modern disc brakes, each development has contributed to creating a safer and more enjoyable riding experience for cyclists around the world.
The transition from coaster brakes to hand brakes
The transition from coaster brakes to hand brakes was a monumental shift in the world of bicycles. It was a time filled with perplexity and burstiness as riders eagerly embraced this new technology. The exact timeline of when bicycles got hand brakes is somewhat shrouded in mystery, adding an element of unpredictability to the narrative.
Historical records indicate that the introduction of hand brakes began to gain momentum in the late 19th century. The rapid advancements in bicycle design and engineering during this period led to a variety of braking mechanisms being experimented with.
One of the earliest iterations of hand brakes can be traced back to the early 1880s. These rudimentary systems featured a lever-operated mechanism that directly applied pressure to the wheel rims. However, these early hand brakes were far from perfect; they often required significant force to engage and were prone to wearing out quickly.
As the demand for safer and more efficient braking systems grew, bicycle manufacturers tirelessly worked to improve hand brake designs. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that hand brakes started to become more standardized and widely adopted.
The precise moment when hand brakes completely replaced coaster brakes is difficult to determine. Different regions and manufacturers had their own timelines for this transition. However, it is generally accepted that by the 1920s, hand brakes had become the norm for most bicycles.
The shift from coaster brakes to hand brakes revolutionized the cycling experience. It provided riders with greater control and stopping power, especially in challenging terrains and high-speed scenarios. This transition marked a significant milestone in the evolution of bicycles, forever changing the way people rode and interacted with these two-wheeled wonders.
The journey from coaster brakes to hand brakes was filled with intrigue and unpredictability. It is a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation within the bicycle industry and the determination to create safer and more enjoyable riding experiences.
Innovation in bicycle braking mechanisms
Innovation in bicycle braking mechanisms has a long and intricate history, where the introduction of hand brakes played a significant role. The exact timeline of when bicycles acquired hand brakes is a subject of much perplexity and debate among cycling enthusiasts. Bursting with various theories and claims, the evolution of bicycle braking systems has been an unpredictable journey.
One theory suggests that hand brakes were first integrated into bicycles in the late 19th century. However, the lack of concrete evidence leaves their origin shrouded in mystery. Some argue that hand brakes gained popularity in the 1890s when manufacturers began experimenting with different braking mechanisms to enhance rider safety and control.
Another intriguing claim proposes that hand brakes were a result of continuous experimentation and refinement throughout the early 20th century. As bicycle technology advanced, engineers and inventors aimed to develop more efficient braking systems, leading to the gradual adoption of hand-operated brakes.
The unpredictability of the timeline is further intensified by conflicting reports and varying accounts from different regions. While some regions may have embraced hand brakes earlier than others, it is challenging to pinpoint an exact moment of widespread adoption.
Despite the lack of predictability in determining when bicycles acquired hand brakes, one thing is certain – these innovative braking mechanisms revolutionized the cycling experience. Hand brakes provided riders with improved stopping power and control, allowing them to navigate varying terrains and speeds with greater confidence and safety.
As the cycling industry continues to evolve, the ongoing burstiness of innovation brings forth new and advanced braking systems. From disc brakes to hydraulic systems, manufacturers strive to enhance performance and rider experience. The unpredictability and burstiness of innovation ensure that cyclists can look forward to a future where braking mechanisms continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.
The impact of hand brakes on cycling safety
The invention and widespread adoption of hand brakes in the world of cycling have had a profound impact on safety. Prior to the introduction of hand brakes, cyclists relied solely on their feet to slow down or stop their bicycles. While this method worked to some extent, it had its limitations and often led to accidents and injuries. The exact timing of when bicycles got hand brakes is a bit of a historical puzzle, as the development and implementation of this technology varied across different regions and time periods. However, it is generally agreed upon that hand brakes started gaining popularity in the late 19th century. The introduction of hand brakes revolutionized cycling safety by providing cyclists with greater control and stopping power. With the ability to apply force to the brakes using their hands, riders could now quickly and effectively slow down or come to a complete stop, even in emergency situations. Hand brakes not only improved the stopping capabilities of bicycles but also enhanced maneuverability. Cyclists were now able to navigate sharp turns and corners with more ease, as they could modulate their speed more precisely using the hand brakes. Furthermore, the introduction of hand brakes allowed for the development of more advanced bicycle designs. With the ability to rely on hand brakes for stopping, manufacturers were able to experiment with lighter frames and other components without compromising safety. The impact of hand brakes on cycling safety cannot be overstated. The increased control and stopping power provided by this technology have undoubtedly saved countless lives and prevented numerous accidents. As cycling continues to evolve, hand brakes remain a crucial component in ensuring the safety of riders on the road.
| HAND BRAKE TYPE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Coaster Brake | A type of brake that is built into the rear hub of the bicycle. It is engaged by pedaling backward. |
| Caliper Brake | A type of brake that uses a pair of brake pads to grip the rim of the wheel and slow down the bicycle. |
| V-Brake | A type of brake that uses two arms to squeeze brake pads against the rim of the wheel, providing strong stopping power. |
| Disc Brake | A type of brake that uses a metal disc attached to the wheel hub. When the brake is applied, brake pads squeeze the disc to slow down the bicycle. |
| Cantilever Brake | A type of brake that uses a pair of brake arms to pull brake pads against the rim of the wheel, providing effective braking performance. |
| Drum Brake | A type of brake that uses a mechanism inside the wheel hub to press brake shoes against the drum, providing reliable braking in various weather conditions. |
| Band Brake | A type of brake that uses a flexible band tightened around the rim of the wheel to slow down the bicycle. |
| Roller Brake | A type of brake that uses a rotating mechanism inside the hub to generate friction and slow down the bicycle. |
| Coaster-Rim Brake | A combination of coaster brake and rim brake, providing two braking options for the cyclist. |
| Hydraulic Disc Brake | A type of brake that uses hydraulic pressure to apply braking force to the disc, offering strong and consistent braking performance. |
| Mechanical Disc Brake | A type of brake that uses a cable to pull the brake caliper, pressing the brake pads against the disc and slowing down the bicycle. |
| U-Brake | A type of brake that uses two arms to provide braking force to the rim of the wheel, offering powerful stopping capability. |
| Side Pull Brake | A type of brake that uses a single cable and a pair of brake arms to apply force on the rim, providing reliable stopping power. |
| Center Pull Brake | A type of brake that uses a single cable connected to a yoke, which pulls two brake arms to squeeze the rim and slow down the bicycle. |
| Hydraulic Rim Brake | A type of brake that uses hydraulic pressure to press the brake pads against the rim, offering excellent modulation and stopping power. |
The role of hand brakes in modern bicycles
The role of hand brakes in modern bicycles is a source of perplexity for many cycling enthusiasts. The evolution of bicycle braking systems has been a burst of innovation with a low level of predictability. The use of hand brakes on bicycles dates back to the late 19th century when they were first introduced as an alternative to coaster brakes. Before the advent of hand brakes, cyclists relied on foot-operated spoon brakes or simple friction brakes that were activated by pressing against the tires.
Hand brakes revolutionized the way cyclists could control their speed and navigate through various terrains. Initially, hand brakes were operated by a lever attached to the handlebars, which would activate the brake pads to press against the rims of the wheels. This allowed for more precise and controlled braking, especially in situations that required sudden stops or quick deceleration.
Over time, the technology behind hand brakes has evolved significantly. The introduction of caliper brakes in the mid-20th century marked a major milestone in bicycle braking systems. These brakes featured two pivoting arms that would squeeze the brake pads against the wheel rims, providing even more stopping power and control.
In recent years, the rise of disc brakes has further transformed the role of hand brakes in modern bicycles. Disc brakes offer superior braking performance, especially in wet or muddy conditions, and they are becoming increasingly popular in various cycling disciplines. With disc brakes, the hand brake lever operates hydraulic or mechanical systems that squeeze brake pads onto a rotor attached to the wheel hub. This design allows for consistent and reliable braking, regardless of the weather or terrain conditions.
The role of hand brakes in modern bicycles cannot be understated. They provide cyclists with the ability to modulate their speed, navigate challenging terrains, and ensure safety while riding. The burst of innovation in bicycle braking systems has led to the development of highly efficient and reliable hand brakes that continue to evolve and improve with each passing year.
| YEAR | HAND BRAKE TYPE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| 1800s | None | Bicycles in the 1800s did not have hand brakes. Riders used their feet to slow down or stop the bike. |
| 1869 | Spoon Brake | The spoon brake was one of the earliest hand brakes used on bicycles. It consisted of a lever that pressed a spoon-shaped pad against the front wheel, providing some braking power. |
| 1870s | Rod Brake | The rod brake was an improvement over the spoon brake. It used a rod to connect the brake lever to the brake pads, allowing for better control and stopping power. |
| 1880s | Band Brake | The band brake was a common type of hand brake in the 1880s. It involved a metal band that wrapped around the rim of the wheel, providing effective braking. |
| 1890s | Coaster Brake | The coaster brake was introduced in the 1890s. It allowed riders to brake by pedaling backward, eliminating the need for a hand brake in some cases. |
| 1900s | Rim Brake | Rim brakes became popular in the early 1900s. They involved brake pads that squeezed against the rim of the wheel, providing reliable braking power. |
| 1920s | Caliper Brake | Caliper brakes were introduced in the 1920s. They used two arms with brake pads that squeezed against the sides of the wheel rim, offering improved stopping ability. |
| 1930s | Drum Brake | Drum brakes were commonly used in the 1930s. They featured an enclosed drum that contained the brake pads, providing reliable braking even in wet conditions. |
| 1950s | Cantilever Brake | Cantilever brakes were developed in the 1950s. They used a pair of brake arms connected to brake pads, offering increased mechanical advantage and stopping power. |
| 1970s | Disc Brake | Disc brakes started to appear on bicycles in the 1970s. They used a metal disc attached to the wheel hub, with calipers that squeezed against the disc to provide powerful braking. |
| 1980s | Linear Pull Brake | Linear pull brakes, also known as V-brakes, became popular in the 1980s. They used a pair of arms that pulled the brake pads against the rim, offering improved braking performance. |
| 1990s | Hydraulic Disc Brake | Hydraulic disc brakes started to be used on bicycles in the 1990s. They offered even more powerful and consistent braking by using hydraulic fluid to transmit force. |
| 2000s | Dual Pivot Caliper Brake | Dual pivot caliper brakes became common in the 2000s. They used a dual pivot mechanism to provide increased braking power and modulation. |
| 2010s | Disc Brake (Electronic) | Electronic disc brakes started to be used in the 2010s. They offered the benefits of disc brakes with electronic control for precise braking modulation. |
| Present | Advanced Disc Brakes | Modern bicycles often feature advanced disc brakes, utilizing technologies like hydraulic systems, lightweight materials, and improved heat dissipation for optimal braking performance. |
Famous inventors and pioneers in bicycle brake development
In the rich history of bicycle development, there have been several famous inventors and pioneers who revolutionized the braking systems. One of the most notable figures in this regard is John K. Starley, the inventor of the modern bicycle with a hand brake. Starley’s breakthrough came in the late 19th century when he introduced the concept of a lever-operated hand brake, providing riders with a new level of control and safety. This invention marked a significant turning point in the evolution of bicycles and paved the way for future advancements in brake technology. Another influential figure in bicycle brake development is Albert Goodrich, who is credited with inventing the coaster brake in the early 20th century. The coaster brake allowed riders to engage the brake simply by pedaling backward, eliminating the need for hand brakes altogether. This innovation made cycling more accessible and user-friendly, particularly for casual riders. These inventors and pioneers played a crucial role in shaping the way we ride bicycles today, and their contributions continue to resonate in the cycling world.
| INVENTOR/PIONEER | CONTRIBUTION |
|---|---|
| John Kean | Invented the first hand-operated brake in 1887 |
| Francis P. Low | Introduced the coaster brake in 1898 |
| Albert Pope | Developed the first rim brake system in 1895 |
| Charles Minshall | Patented the first drum brake in 1898 |
| George N. Pierce | Introduced the caliper brake in 1902 |
| Tony Foale | Pioneered the development of disc brakes for bicycles in the 1970s |
| Shimano | Revolutionized bicycle braking with their hydraulic disc brakes in the 1990s |
| SRAM | Introduced the popular dual-pivot caliper brakes in the early 2000s |
| Magura | Known for their innovative hydraulic rim brakes for bicycles |
| Hope Technology | Specializes in the production of high-performance disc brakes for bicycles |
How hand brakes revolutionized the cycling experience
Hand brakes revolutionized the cycling experience by providing cyclists with a new level of control and safety. Before the introduction of hand brakes, bicycles relied solely on the rider’s feet to slow down or stop the bike. This meant that cyclists had to anticipate the need to slow down well in advance and apply pressure to the pedals accordingly. However, with the advent of hand brakes, cyclists could now rely on their hands to effortlessly and instantly apply pressure to the braking system, allowing for quicker and more efficient deceleration. This not only enhanced the overall riding experience but also significantly improved safety on the roads. Hand brakes gave cyclists the ability to react swiftly to unexpected obstacles or hazards, ensuring that they could maintain better control over their bikes at all times. The introduction of hand brakes marked a pivotal moment in cycling history, transforming the way riders approached descents, corners, and overall maneuverability. With the added convenience and effectiveness of hand brakes, cyclists could confidently navigate various terrains and ride with a newfound sense of freedom and control.
When did bicycles get hand brakes?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. The exact year is difficult to pinpoint as different inventors and manufacturers experimented with various braking mechanisms around the same time. However, the widespread adoption of hand brakes on bicycles began in the 1890s.
In conclusion, hand brakes on bicycles became popular and commonly used in the late 19th century. This innovation allowed cyclists to have better control over their speed and improved safety on the roads. Hand brakes have since evolved and become an essential component of modern bicycles, enabling riders to easily and quickly slow down or stop when needed. Today, hand brakes are an integral part of cycling, providing riders with a reliable braking system that enhances their overall riding experience.
Comments
22 responses to “A Brief History: When Did Bicycles Get Hand Brakes?”
What is your opinion on using hand brakes for bicycles?
I think hand brakes are essential for any modern bicycle. They provide better control and stopping power compared to old-fashioned coaster brakes.
What were the alternatives to hand brakes in the early days of cycling?
In the early days of cycling, the alternatives to hand brakes were primitive, such as dragging one’s feet or using a spoon brake. These methods were inefficient and often dangerous.
Why were hand brakes not used in early bicycles?
Early bicycles did not have hand brakes because they were designed with a fixed gear, which meant that the pedals and wheels were directly connected. Later, as bikes began to have freewheels and variable gears, hand brakes became necessary to control the speed of the bike. The earliest hand brakes were primitive, but they gradually evolved into the advanced systems we have today.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. The exact year is subject to debate, but it is generally believed that hand brakes became more common and widely used around the 1880s.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. Prior to that, most bicycles relied on coaster brakes, where the rider would pedal backwards to slow down or stop. The invention of hand brakes allowed for greater control and improved safety while riding.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. Prior to that, bicycles were usually equipped with coaster brakes or relied on foot-operated brakes.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. Prior to that, bicycles relied on coaster brakes or simply dragging one’s feet on the ground to slow down or stop.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. The exact year can vary depending on the region and the specific design, but it was around the 1880s that hand-operated brakes began to appear on bicycles. Prior to that, most bicycles relied on coaster brakes or no brakes at all.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. The exact year varies depending on the region and specific bicycle design, but it is generally believed that hand brakes became more common and widely used around the 1880s.
When were hand brakes first added to bicycles?
Hand brakes were first added to bicycles in the late 19th century, around the 1890s. Before that, bicycles relied on coaster brakes or no brakes at all. The introduction of hand brakes allowed cyclists to have more control over their speed and stopping power, greatly enhancing the safety and functionality of bicycles.
When were hand brakes first introduced on bicycles?
Hand brakes were first introduced on bicycles in the late 19th century. Prior to that, bicycles relied on a simpler coaster brake mechanism or no brakes at all.