Bicycles

Bicycles are one of the most popular inventions ever. Millions of people ride bikes every day. They are good for your body, fun to ride, and don't pollute the air. Bikes are used for getting to school, exercising, racing, and just having fun.

How Bicycles Work

When you push the pedals, a chain turns the back wheel and the bike moves forward. Gears let you pedal easier going uphill or faster on flat ground. Squeezing the brakes slows you down by pressing pads against the wheel. It's simple but clever engineering!

Bicycles Around the World

The Netherlands is called the bicycle capital of the world. There are more bikes than people there! China and India also have huge numbers of bike riders. Many cities are building bike lanes to make cycling safer. Bike-sharing programs let people rent bikes all over town.

Fun Facts

• There are about one billion bicycles in the world, twice as many as cars.
• The fastest speed ever on a bicycle was over 183 miles per hour, with a special wind shield.
• The Tour de France bike race covers about 2,200 miles over three weeks.

Did You Know?

The first bicycles had no pedals! Riders pushed themselves along with their feet on the ground. These early bikes were called 'hobby horses' and were invented in 1817.