in paris, 'pedalling machines' proliferated, characterised by wheels of 1m or 1m 10 in front and 80cm at the back. their riders gave exhibitions in which they rivalled each other in technique and vigour. seeing these demonstrations, the ollivier brothers, who controlled the compagnie parisienne, decided to hold a race on 31 may 1868 in the parc de st-cloud, made available to them by their imperial majesties "cycling record" reported that the event started on the stroke of 3pm in the presence of the aristocracy of tout-paris, all thrilled at the idea of seeing these men rival each other in strength and virtuosity.