Despite being something unknown to the general public, the bicycle has played a surprising role on the battlefield throughout history. From Bici Lab Andorra they have decided to dust off this mysterious side of the pedal vehicle and in their museum you can find an exhibition dedicated exclusively to it. For now we put you in context on the topic.
The relationship between bicycle and war begins at the end of the 19th century, the world was experiencing growing global conflict, marked by the emergence of new nationalisms. This raised the importance of national armies, which sought to modernize to adapt to the new war realities.
Along with this, the bicycle underwent a significant transformation, going from the first prototypes with the large front wheel to a geometry more similar to the one we know now. This advance not only boosted its popularization in civilian life, but also made it a valuable resource in the military field.
Britain led the way by creating a cycling military corps in the early 1880s. France also established its own cycling infantry in 1892, led by Capitane Gerard. Peugot gave the name of that soldier to its first line of bicycles built especially for use in military contexts.
The First World War (1914-1918) marked a milestone in the history of the military bicycle, as these machines played a crucial role in various campaigns and battles. In addition to their traditional role of quickly transporting messages and supplies, bicycles were used in parachute operations, where their mobility and stealth offered a great advantage.
With the end of World War II, the decline of cycling infantry units and military bicycles began as armies turned to more advanced motorized vehicles. Despite the decline in their use in official military settings, bicycles continued to play a role in later conflicts, such as the Vietnam War and the Sri Lankan Civil War (1983-2009). Even in recent days the bicycle has been used as another tool with which to fight.
Throughout history, the bicycle has proven to be a surprising ally on the battlefield, playing a valuable role in military situations. Although it has lost importance in national armies, its versatility and ability to carry out rapid and stealthy movements continue to be recognized in some conflicts and in police forces around the world. If you want to continue learning more about the role of the bicycle in the war, do not hesitate to visit the bicycle museum in Andorra, there you can learn in depth about its relationship throughout history.
