Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Now, many people assume the bicycle was invented in the 19th century, but its origins go back further. The first known two-wheeled vehicle, called a 'velocipede', appeared in the early 1800s. However, it had no pedals; riders pushed their feet along the ground. The major breakthrough came in 1860s France when pedals were attached to the front wheel. This design, known as the 'boneshaker', was uncomfortable due to its rigid frame. Later, the 'penny-farthing' with a large front wheel improved speed but was dangerous. Finally, in the 1880s, the 'safety bicycle' with equal-sized wheels and a chain drive made cycling accessible to the public.