雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Good morning. Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Although many people think of the bicycle as a relatively modern invention, its origins actually go back to the early 19th century. The first two-wheeled vehicle, called a 'hobby horse', was invented by a German baron in 1817. It had no pedals; riders pushed themselves along with their feet. Then, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, creating the 'velocipede'. However, this design was uncomfortable and difficult to ride. It wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and equal-sized wheels was introduced, making cycling much safer and more popular.