Originally Posted by roccobike
I've learned a lot of historical facts about bikes here on the C&V forum. However, I never knew that punishment during the Spanish Inquisition was to ride a bike until the stem broke.
What a terrible way to go!
I'll be sure to tell my kids so they have the answer if that comes up at school. (Thanks Joe v.)
Admit that 'the death fork' and 'the death stem' could easily be inserted in a list already including 'the rack', 'the iron lady', 'heretic's fork' (!!), 'the skull crusher' and 'the wheel'!
p.s. Picture this history classroom scene :
Teacher : 'Today's subject : the Bicycle.
Today's bicycles are a far cry from the original 13th century invention which over time became known and feared as one of the most cruel instruments of torture of the Middle Ages. While the Inquisitors appreciated its manyfold possibilities, suspects would often faint at the mere sight of the dreaded metal contraption...