Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. In the early 19th century, the first two-wheeled vehicle, called a 'velocipede', was invented in Germany. It had no pedals; riders pushed their feet against the ground. Later, in the 1860s, French inventors added pedals to the front wheel, creating the 'boneshaker'. However, it was very uncomfortable due to its wooden wheels and metal frames. The real breakthrough came in 1885 when John Kemp Starley designed the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive to the rear wheel and equal-sized wheels, making it much safer and more practical for everyday use.
❓ According to the lecture, what was the main advantage of the safety bicycle introduced in 1885?
A. It had a more comfortable seat
B. It was lighter and faster than earlier models
C. It used a chain drive and equal-sized wheels, making it safer
D. It was the first bicycle with pedals
✅ 正确答案
It used a chain drive and equal-sized wheels, making it safer