A bicycle, also called a pedal cycle, bike, push-bike or cycle,is a human-powered, pedal-driven, single-

track vehicle, having two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other. A bicycle rider is called a
cyclist, or bicyclist. The most popular bicycle model in the world is the Chinese Flying Pigeon with
about 500 million produced till date.

Bicycles were introduced in the 19th century in Europe. By the early 21st century there were more
than 1 billion. These numbers far exceed the number of cars, both in total and ranked by the number
of individual models produced. They were the principal means of transportation in many regions.
They also provide a popular form of recreation, and have been adapted for use as children's toys,
general fitness, military and police applications, courier services, bicycle racing, and bicycle stunts.

German Inventor Karl von Drais is credited with developing the first bicycle. It was called "Draisine"
or "running machine". His machine, popularly known as the "swiftwalker," hit the road in 1817. This
early bicycle had no pedals and its frame was a wooden beam. The device had two wooden wheels
with iron rims and leather-covered tires. Karl Drais's invention laid the foundation for the
development of the bicycle as we know it today.

1] Early Developments:
----------------------------
In the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, creating the "bone-shaker" or velocipede. These
early bicycles were made mostly of wood and featured iron-rimmed wheels.

2]High Wheelers and Safety Bicycles:

------------------------------------
In the late 1860s, the high wheel bicycle, also known as the "penny-farthing," became popular. It had
a large front wheel and a smaller rear wheel, providing greater speed but also a higher risk of
accidents. The safety bicycle, featuring two wheels of the same size, a chain drive, and a diamond-
shaped frame, was introduced in the 1880s.This design offered improved stability and safety, making
cycling more accessible to a wider population.

3]Pneumatic Tires
------------------------
The development of the pneumatic tire in the 1880s by John Boyd Dunlop greatly improved the
comfort and performance of bicycles. The air-filled rubber tire provided a smoother ride and better
traction.

4]Gears and Derailleurs

------------------------------
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bicycle gears were introduced, allowing riders to adjust the
gear ratio to suit different terrains.

5]Materials and Construction

-----------------------------
Steel frames were commonly used until the mid-20th century when lightweight materials such as
aluminium and later carbon fiber gained popularity. These materials offered increased strength,
durability, and weight reduction.

6] Electric Bicycles (E-bikes):

------------------------------
Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years. They feature an
electric motor that assists the rider's pedalling effort, providing additional power and extending the
range of travel.

7] Specialized Bicycle Types:

----------------------------
Over time, bicycles have been developed for specific purposes and terrain. This includes mountain
bikes, road bikes, hybrid bikes, folding bikes, touring bikes, and many others, each tailored to meet
the needs of different riders and environments.

Aspect Old Bicycles Recent Bicycles

Made of steel, aluminium, carbon fiber, or

Frame Mostly made of wood titanium

Wheels Iron-rimmed wheels Lightweight alloy or carbon fiber wheels

Tire Wooden wheels/Solid rubber tires Pneumatic (air-filled) tires for better comfort

Design High wheelers (penny-farthings) Safety bicycles with two wheels of the same size

Gears No gears/single speed Multiple gears for various terrains

Brakes Early models lacked brakes Calliper, disc, or hydraulic brakes

Front suspension, full suspension, or rigid

Suspension No suspension frames
 Aspect Old Bicycles Recent Bicycles

Electric Assistance Not available Electric bicycles (e-bikes) with motors

Advanced features like electronic shifting,

Technology Basic mechanical components sensors

Specialized designs for road, mountain, folding,

Purpose General transportation etc.

Higher risk of accidents and less Improved stability, safety features, and
Safety stability ergonomics