The technological advances in cycling have completely transformed the way we ride. Nowadays, mountain bikes and road bikes are designed to offer maximum performance, with ultra-light carbon frames, electronic shifting groupsets, and transmission systems that guarantee incredible efficiency. However, it was not always like this.
For much of the 20th century, bicycles were very different from those we see now in XC, trail or road competitions. Cycling evolved alongside innovation, but there was a time when pedaling was a much greater challenge.
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In this article we tell you about 5 features of bicycles from the past that you will find hard to believe.
1. Steel frames: extreme strength, but very heavy
Before the arrival of carbon or aluminum frames, road bikes and mountain bikes were made of steel. Although this material offered exceptional resistance to impacts and falls, it also had a major drawback: the weight.
While today’s high-performance mountain bikes can weigh less than 10 kg and ultralight road bikes are around 6–7 kg, decades ago bikes easily exceeded 18 kg. This made acceleration and handling difficult, turning every climb into a real challenge.
2. Wooden rims: a constant problem
Can you imagine competing with wooden wheels? Until the 1930s, many bicycles used rims made of this material, which led to problems with durability and performance. Moisture deformed the structure, water could rot them, and impacts broke them easily.
Nowadays, carbon wheels have taken performance to the next level in both mountain bikes and road bikes, offering lightness, strength, and aerodynamics without compromise.
3. Pedals with straps: discomfort and risk of falling
Before the arrival of clipless pedals, cyclists secured their feet with leather straps or rudimentary systems that, in many cases, would come loose at the most inopportune moments. Steep climbs and technical descents could become a real danger if the foot lost contact with the pedal in the middle of the action.
Today, thanks to cleats and clipless pedals, both road cyclists and mountain bikers can enjoy greater efficiency and safety with every pedal stroke.
4. Manual gear changes and wheels with two sprockets
If nowadays you complain when your gear shift isn't perfectly smooth, imagine if you had to get off the bike to change gears manually. In the 1930s, many bikes had two sprockets, one on each side of the rear axle. To change gear ratio, the cyclist had to stop, remove the wheel, flip it, and remount it before continuing to pedal.
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Currently, electronic shifting groups have taken precision to another level, allowing effortless instant shifts both on mountain bikes and road bikes.
5. Frame-mounted shifters: a key evolution
Until the 1990s, gear changes were not made from the handlebar levers, but via levers located on the frame. This forced the cyclist to let go of one hand and take their eyes off the road, which could be dangerous, especially on technical descents or during a sprint.
The arrival of shifters integrated into the handlebars revolutionized cycling, allowing you to always keep your hands in a safe position and optimizing the transition between gears.
Cycling has evolved, but the passion remains intact
Over the years, mountain bikes and road bikes have undergone an incredible transformation. What used to be a challenge due to weight and lack of technology has now become a high-performance experience, with ultralight materials, electronic shifting, and optimized geometries.
If you love cycling, whether you prefer MTB or asphalt, you surely appreciate how this sport has evolved. And if you're thinking about buying a refurbished bicycle, remember that today you can enjoy the best advancements without having to spend a fortune. 🚴♂️💨