Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. While many people think of it as a modern invention, the first two-wheeled vehicle appeared in the early 19th century. However, it wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with equal-sized wheels and a chain drive became popular. This design made riding much safer and more efficient, leading to a boom in cycling. Interestingly, the pneumatic tire, invented by John Boyd Dunlop in 1888, was originally developed to make his son's tricycle more comfortable, but it was soon adopted for bicycles, greatly improving ride quality.
❓ What was the main reason for the popularity of the safety bicycle in the 1880s?
A. A. It was cheaper to produce than earlier models.
B. B. It had equal-sized wheels and a chain drive, making it safer and more efficient.
C. C. It was the first bicycle to use pneumatic tires.
D. D. It was designed specifically for racing competitions.
✅ 正确答案
B. It had equal-sized wheels and a chain drive, making it safer and more efficient.