Good morning, everyone. Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Now, many people think the bicycle was invented in the 19th century, but its origins actually go back further. The first known two-wheeled vehicle, called a 'velocipede', appeared in France in the 1790s. However, it had no pedals; riders pushed their feet against the ground. The real breakthrough came in 1860s when pedals were attached to the front wheel. But this design was dangerous because it was easy to tip over. It wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and two equal-sized wheels became popular, making cycling much safer and more accessible to the public.
❓ Какова была основная проблема конструкции велосипеда (велоципеда) в 1790-х годах?
A. Он был слишком тяжёлым, чтобы ездить на нём.
B. У него не было педалей, поэтому ездокам приходилось отталкиваться ногами.
C. Было трудно управлять.
D. Производство было слишком дорогим.
✅ 正确答案
It had no pedals, so riders had to push with their feet.