雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Although many people think the bicycle was invented in the 19th century, early prototypes appeared in the 18th century. In 1817, a German inventor created a wooden frame with two wheels, which riders pushed along with their feet. This was called the 'Laufmaschine' or running machine. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, leading to the high-wheel bicycle. These were dangerous because riders sat high above the ground. Finally, in 1885, the 'safety bicycle' was introduced, with two equal-sized wheels and a chain drive, making it much safer and more practical.