The bicycle, also called bicycle or bicycle, is a human-powered or motor-powered, pedal-operated, one-way vehicle with two wheels attached to a frame one after the other. A bicycle rider is called a cyclist or cyclist.
In the 19th century, bicycles were introduced in Europe, and by the beginning of the 21st century, more than 1 billion bicycles were available at any given time. [1] [2] [3] These numbers far exceed the number of cars ranked, both in total and by the number of individual models produced. [4] [5] [6] It is the main means of transport in many regions. They also provide a popular form of recreation and are adapted for use as children's toys, general fitness, military and police practices, courier services, bike racing, and bike shows.
The basic shape and configuration of a typical upright or "safe bike" has changed little since the first chain drive model was developed around 1885. [7] [8] [9] However, many details have been developed, especially since the advent of modern materials and computer-aided design. These have allowed special designs to proliferate for many types of bicycles.
The invention of the bicycle had a tremendous impact on society, both in terms of culture and the development of modern industrial methods. Several components, which eventually played an important role in the development of the automobile, were originally invented for use in the bicycle; ball bearings, pneumatic tires, chain drive sprockets and tension lever wheels.
Although bicycle and bicycle are mostly used interchangeably to refer to 2 types of 2-wheel vehicles, the terms still differ around the world. For example, in India, a cycle refers to a 2-wheeled vehicle that uses pedal power only, while the term bicycle is used to describe a 2-wheeled vehicle that uses an internal combustion engine or electric motors as a source of motive power rather than a motorcycle / motorcycle.