雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Good morning, everyone. Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. The first bicycle-like vehicle was invented in the early 19th century, but it had no pedals. Riders pushed their feet against the ground to move forward. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, which made riding faster but also more dangerous. It wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with two equal-sized wheels and a chain drive appeared. This design is similar to what we use today. Interestingly, the safety bicycle became popular among women because it allowed them to ride comfortably while wearing long dresses.