雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Today we're discussing the history of the bicycle. One key development was the 'safety bicycle' in the 1880s, which had two equal-sized wheels and a chain drive. This design made cycling much safer than the earlier 'penny-farthing', which had a huge front wheel and was prone to tipping over. The safety bicycle's popularity grew rapidly, especially among women, as it allowed for more practical clothing. However, it wasn't until the 1890s that pneumatic tires were added, greatly improving comfort and speed. This innovation led to a cycling boom across Europe and North America.