On this day: May 31

/on/may-31
1868 • neutral • 8 views

First modern bicycle race held in Paris, May 31, 1868

A group of 1860s pedal velocipedes and riders on a grassy open racecourse at Longchamps near Paris, with spectators in period dress in the background.

On May 31, 1868, cyclists competed in what is widely regarded as the first organized modern bicycle race, held on Paris's Longchamps racecourse, marking an early chapter in competitive cycling history.

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