雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. The first bicycle, invented in the early 19th century, had no pedals and was pushed along by the rider's feet. It wasn't until the 1860s that pedals were added to the front wheel. However, this design was unstable and difficult to ride. In 1885, the 'safety bicycle' was introduced with a chain drive and two equal-sized wheels, making it much safer and more efficient. This design quickly became popular, and by the 1890s, cycling had become a widespread leisure activity, especially among women who gained new freedom of movement.