The bicycle, or bike, is a human-powered land vehicle with two wheels and a seat. It is propelled by a rider sitting on top and pushing pedals, which in turn power a metal chain connected to sprockets on the wheel and on the pedals. It is used worldwide for transportation, recreation, exercise, and competition. There are currently more than a billion bicycles in existence, making it the most common means of human-powered transport.

The term bicycle derives from the French words bi- (“two”) and cycle (meaning wheel). The first documented use of the word was in 1868. Its meaning has evolved over time. The bicycle is a complex machine that must be balanced and controlled by the rider to work properly. The frame sets the stage for the bike’s mechanicalness and riding experience, so it is important that it be built well.

If you are a journalist, there are few things easier to write about than a bicycle. The news is full of them: a cyclist gets hurt, an eccentric biker ruins a cityscape, a famous biker loses a race. And it doesn’t matter how tenuously the bicycle is linked to the news story; as long as a bicycle is involved, the public will be interested.

There are even plenty of stereotypes to choose from. The cyclist is generally uppity, spoilt and weird. He or she wears Lycra and has huge thighs. He or she is a do-gooder, who rides for charity. The cyclist’s bike is usually a super-expensive racing model, with carbon wheels and a high-tech suspension. He or she is always wearing a helmet, which proves that he or she isn’t very bright.

Despite all these stereotypes, the bicycle is a very practical form of transport. It can travel more quickly than a car, and is cheap to operate. It is also environmentally friendly, because it produces no pollution and uses no fossil fuels. It is also a good workout for the rider, and can help him or her maintain a healthy weight.

Nevertheless, there are some issues with the bicycle. For example, the bicycle can be dangerous if it is not maintained correctly. It is also difficult to repair, because the parts are complex and expensive. Furthermore, cycling accidents are relatively common, and they can be very serious. But the positive aspects of the bicycle make it an excellent mode of transport for most people, and it has become one of the world’s most popular sports. It is a great way to get around, whether you’re commuting to work or just running errands. It can even be fun for children, although it’s probably not a good idea for a kid to ride a high-end racing bike. Just make sure to get a bicycle that is appropriate for his or her age and height. And be sure to teach your child how to ride safely and responsibly. Otherwise, you might end up in the news for another reason.