100 years of the International Cycling Union

Portugal issued an interesting new series on 22 May 2000 depicting the anniversary of the International Cycling Union.

Baron von Drais

When in 1817, the German Baron von Drais invented his "swiftwalker", he could hardly have imagined that he was paving the way for the amazing modern day vehicle that is the bicycle. In the years that followed, his invention, which became known as the draisine, was patented in France, Great Britain and the United States, although it was used primarily for recreational purposes. It was, however, soon to gain in importance.

Practical means of transport

It developed from a mere hobbyhorse or boneshaker to a useful and practical means of transport when, around 1861, the Michaux, a father and son team from France, had the idea of adding a pedal system to the front wheel. From then on the emergence of the bicycle as we know it was only a matter of time. It proved to be a huge success, attracting users from all social classes and giving rise to races that drew large audiences in all countries. These races in turn led to the creation of the International Cycling Union (UCI) in 1900.

Cycling competitions

Today the organisation regulates cycling competitions in most diverse forms on a worldwide basis. The bicycle has never stopped developing and, in recent years, has even taken on a new dimension as an extraordinarily practical and non-polluting means of transport appreciated by a growing number of bike touring fans and lovers of radical sports.

Stamps in detail

Date of issue: 22 May 2000.
Values: 52, 85, 100, 140, 215 and 350 esc.
Design: Luiz Duran.
Size: 40 x 20.6 mm.
Print: offset by INCM.

More information

Postage Stamps 2000
Stamps of Portugal