Bicycles and horse buggies were the two mainstays of private transportation just prior to the automobile, and the grading of smooth roads in the gone 19th century was stimulated by the commodious employment of these devices.

Historically, materials used in bicycles have followed a similar pattern as in aircraft, the goal being huge strength and flat weight. Since the late 1930s alloy steels have been used for frame and fork tubes Bicycle Accessories in higher quality machines. Celluloid found application in mudguards, and aluminum alloys are continuously attached in components such as handlebars, center post, and brake levers. In the 1980s aluminum alloy frames became popular, and their affordability now makes them common. More fancy carbon fiber and titanium frames are now also available, as well as advanced prepare alloys and even bamboo.