ReadingQuestion 237 of 460

The bicycle is a simple machine, but it has changed how people travel. The first bicycles of the early nineteenth century had no pedals; riders pushed along the ground with their feet. Pedals were added later, and by the end of the century the 'safety bicycle', with two wheels of the same size and a chain, had become popular. Bicycles gave ordinary people, including many women, a cheap way to travel farther than they could on foot. Today, cycling is encouraged for several reasons. It does not produce smoke, it keeps the rider fit, and it costs little compared with owning a car. Many cities have built special lanes so that cyclists can ride safely away from heavy traffic. Still, riders should always wear a helmet, because even a small fall can cause a serious injury to the head.

Question: How did riders move the first bicycles?

  1. By using pedals
  2. By pushing their feet on the ground
  3. By turning a chain
  4. By using a small engine
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Correct answer: By pushing their feet on the ground

The first bicycles had no pedals, so riders pushed with their feet.

Test structure: ETEC information about STEP

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Questions last reviewed: 21 October 2026