Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Now, many people believe the bicycle was invented in the 19th century, but its origins actually go back further. The first two-wheeled machine, called a 'velocipede', appeared in France around 1817. It had no pedals; riders pushed their feet against the ground to move. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, making it faster but difficult to ride. It wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and equal-sized wheels was developed, which is similar to what we use today.
❓ What was a key feature of the velocipede, the earliest two-wheeled machine?
A. A) It had pedals attached to the front wheel.
B. B) It was powered by pushing feet on the ground.