Good morning, class. Today we're discussing the history of the bicycle. The first pedal-powered bicycle was invented in the 1860s by a French blacksmith named Pierre Michaux. However, it had wooden wheels and a heavy iron frame, making it difficult to ride. In 1885, John Kemp Starley introduced the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and equal-sized wheels, which was much more stable. This design became wildly popular and is the basis for modern bicycles. Interestingly, the original word 'bicycle' comes from French, combining 'bi-' meaning two and 'kyklos' meaning circle, referring to the two wheels.
❓ According to the lecture, what was the main advantage of the safety bicycle introduced in 1885?
A. It was lighter due to wooden wheels.
B. It had a chain drive and equal-sized wheels for better stability.
C. It was invented by a French blacksmith.
D. It was the first bicycle with two wheels.
✅ 正确答案
It had a chain drive and equal-sized wheels for better stability.