Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Early bicycles, like the penny-farthing, had a large front wheel and a small rear wheel. They were difficult to mount and dangerous to ride because of their height. In the 1880s, the 'safety bicycle' was introduced, which had two wheels of equal size and a chain drive. This design made cycling much safer and more accessible, leading to a boom in popularity. By the early 20th century, bicycles became a common mode of transport for ordinary people, especially workers commuting to factories.