In today's lecture, we'll discuss the history of the bicycle. The first major innovation came in 1817, when Karl Drais invented a two-wheeled 'running machine' without pedals. Then, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, creating the 'velocipede'. However, this design was uncomfortable and hard to ride. The breakthrough occurred in 1885 when John Kemp Starley introduced the 'safety bicycle' with a chain-driven rear wheel and equal-sized wheels. This design became the basis for modern bicycles. Interestingly, the safety bicycle's popularity also led to changes in women's fashion, as it made cycling accessible to women who wore skirts.
❓ Какое было главное преимущество безопасного велосипеда, представленного в 1885 году?
A. A. У него было более удобное сиденье.
B. B. Это был первый велосипед с педалями.
C. C. Он использовал цепной привод на заднее колесо и колёса одинакового размера, что делало его более безопасным и устойчивым.
D. D. Он был легче и дешевле в производстве.
✅ 正确答案
C. It used a chain-driven rear wheel and equal-sized wheels, making it safer and more stable.