Trendy bicycle design: exhibition shows masterpieces from three centuries!

Trendy bicycle design: exhibition shows masterpieces from three centuries!

A remarkable exhibition has opened its doors in Frankfurt: “Your own drive. Fine bicycles” in Museum of Applied Arts (MAK). This is a fascinating journey through the world of bicycle design that brings together works from three centuries.

The show begins with the historic draisine, a balance bike from the early days of the bicycle, and ends with the modern e-racing bikes. More than 200 years after Baron Karl von Drais invented it in 1817, the development of the bicycle becomes visible. This first running machine had no pedals at the time, which changed significantly in the following years when the introduction of pedals and rotary cranks made it much easier to use. Visitors can admire the entire range from traditional models to modern e-bikes, which are in the fast lane due to technological advances.

A highlight: Randonneur from the 1930s

Important exhibits include the high-quality designs, such as the Randonneur from the 1930s. This special piece was designed by Jaques Schulz and exemplifies the excellent craftsmanship of this era. Ivan Sojc, the head of the German Bicycle Museum in Bad Brückenau, bought this bike at a flea market in France for 700 euros. It is not only an exhibit, but also a testament to the time when bicycles were often purchased in installments - a fact that shows how valuable these means of transport were back then.

The presentation itself is restrained in order to best highlight the details of these fine specimens. Another exhibit, the Bonanza bike from the 1970s, is presented as a symbol of youth culture, even if it leaves something to be desired in terms of practicality.

Interactive elements of the exhibition

The exhibition not only invites visitors to marvel, but also to interact: opinions about modern e-racing bikes can be written down on post-its provided. This form of participation creates a dynamic atmosphere and encourages exchange. The inclusion of such elements shows that the museum is not only a place for seeing, but also for thinking and discussing.

The exhibition "Your own drive. Fine bicycles" can be admired until September 14, 2025 and was created in close cooperation with the German Bicycle Museum. The show was previously shown at the Pinakothek der Moderne in Munich and is now delighting the Frankfurt audience. With Frankfurt as the future “World Design Capital” in 2026, the city is once again underlining its role as an innovative place for art and design.

Anyone who has always wanted to find out more about the development of the bicycle will also find information about the milestones of this invention, which ranges from the first running machine to the modern e-bikes, which have been on the rise since around 1995. A place where history, design and technology come together awaits interested visitors. The bike has come a long way and is much more than just a means of transport - it is part of our culture.