Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. While many people think of the bicycle as a relatively modern invention, its origins actually date back to the early 19th century. The first two-wheeled vehicle, called the 'draisine', was invented by Karl von Drais in 1817. It had no pedals; riders pushed themselves along with their feet. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, giving rise to the 'penny-farthing' with its large front wheel. However, it wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and two equal-sized wheels became popular, making cycling much safer and more accessible to the general public.
❓ What made the 'safety bicycle' popular in the 1880s?
A. A. It had a large front wheel and was fast.
B. B. It was the first bicycle with pedals.
C. C. It had a chain drive and equal-sized wheels, making it safer.
D. D. It was invented by Karl von Drais and required no pedals.
✅ 正确答案
C. It had a chain drive and equal-sized wheels, making it safer.