雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Today's lecture is about the history of the bicycle. The first bicycle, invented in the early 19th century, had no pedals and was propelled by pushing your feet against the ground. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, leading to the famous penny-farthing design. However, this design was dangerous because riders sat high above the ground. It wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and two equal-sized wheels became popular. This design made cycling much safer and more accessible to the general public, especially women, as it allowed for more practical clothing.