Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. While many people assume the bicycle was invented in the 19th century, its origins actually go back further. The first two-wheeled, pedal-less device, called a draisine, appeared in 1817 in Germany. It was propelled by pushing feet against the ground. Later, in the 1860s, French inventors added pedals to the front wheel, creating the velocipede. However, this design was uncomfortable due to its rigid frame and wooden wheels. It wasn't until the 1880s that the modern safety bicycle, with a chain drive and equal-sized wheels, became popular, making cycling accessible to the general public.
❓ What was the main problem with the velocipede mentioned by the lecturer?
A. It had no pedals.
B. It was uncomfortable because of its rigid frame and wooden wheels.
C. It was too slow.
D. It was too expensive to produce.
✅ 正确答案
It was uncomfortable because of its rigid frame and wooden wheels.