雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Good morning, class. Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Now, you might be surprised to learn that the first bicycle, invented in the early 19th century, had no pedals. It was called a 'hobby horse' and was pushed along by the rider's feet. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, creating the 'penny-farthing' with its huge front wheel. However, cycling became truly popular only after the invention of the safety bicycle in the 1880s, which had two equal-sized wheels and a chain drive. This design made it much safer and easier to ride, especially for women, who could now cycle in their everyday clothing.