Good morning, everyone. 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. In 1817, a German inventor named Karl Drais created a wooden, two-wheeled machine called the 'draisine'. It had no pedals; riders pushed their feet against the ground to move. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel in France, leading to the 'velocipede'. However, it was the invention of the chain drive in the 1880s that made cycling much more efficient and comfortable, as it allowed the rider to sit lower and pedal without spinning the front wheel. So, the key improvement that led to the modern bicycle was the chain drive.
❓ According to the lecture, what was the main advantage of the chain drive introduced in the 1880s?
A. A. It made bicycles lighter and easier to carry.
B. B. It allowed riders to go faster without pedaling more.
C. C. It made cycling more comfortable and efficient by allowing a lower seating position.
D. D. It eliminated the need for a front wheel.
✅ 正确答案
C. It made cycling more comfortable and efficient by allowing a lower seating position.