雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Good morning, everyone. Today we're going to look at the history of the bicycle. The first bicycle, invented in the early 19th century, had no pedals. Riders pushed their feet against the ground to move forward. This was called a 'hobby horse.' Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, creating the 'boneshaker,' which was very uncomfortable due to its wooden wheels and metal frame. By the 1880s, the 'safety bicycle' was introduced with two equal-sized wheels and a chain drive, making it much safer and more efficient. This design became the basis for modern bicycles. Interestingly, the popularity of bicycles also contributed to the women's rights movement, as it gave women greater personal mobility.