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Pierre Lallement

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description Pierre Lallement Overview

Pierre Lallement was a French mechanic widely credited with attaching mechanical pedals to the draisine, creating an early form of the bicycle known as the velocipede or boneshaker. After moving to the United States, he filed the first American patent for a pedal-driven bicycle in 1866. His design featured pedals attached to the front wheel hub, allowing riders to propel the machine directly. This innovation laid the foundational mechanics for modern bicycles.

help Pierre Lallement FAQ

Why is Pierre Lallement associated with the invention of the bicycle?

Lallement is widely credited with adding mechanical pedals to the draisine, creating an early velocipede or boneshaker. The Smithsonian notes that the precise credit for the pedal improvement is shared or disputed with Pierre Michaux.

When did Pierre Lallement patent his bicycle?

Lallement received a United States patent for improvements in velocipedes in 1866. It is commonly described as the first American patent for a pedal-driven bicycle.

What was a Lallement-style boneshaker like to ride?

The rider had to steer and pedal the same front wheel, and the machine had no cushioning. Its heavy frame and rough ride helped give early velocipedes the nickname boneshaker.

Was Pierre Lallement's velocipede the same as a modern bicycle?

No. It was an early pedal bicycle with direct front-wheel drive, while later safety bicycles used a more familiar frame and chain-driven rear wheel.