A bicycle is a vehicle with two wheels that can be used for riding or racing. It has a frame, seat, pedals, gearing, and handlebars. The rider pushes the pedals to move them, and this in turn moves the chain that powers the back wheel of the bicycle to make it go forwards. The rider also swivels the handlebars from side to side to steer the bike. Bicycles are the most efficient means yet devised for converting human energy into motion. They can be very fast and fun to ride, but they also require skill and practice to operate safely.

Many people enjoy cycling as a form of exercise. It can burn calories, strengthen the muscles, improve balance and coordination, and even help prevent heart disease and diabetes. Cycling can also be an environmentally friendly way to travel, since it does not produce any pollution. It is also an inexpensive method of transportation.

Some cities have laws that regulate how and where cyclists can use their bikes. These laws may include requiring the cyclist to wear a helmet or to obey traffic signals. Some cities also require cyclists to have reflectors on their bicycles and to carry a rear light and front reflector at night. Using a bicycle to commute to work or school is an excellent way to reduce stress and save on gas.

It is important for cyclists to remember that they must follow the rules of the road, just as cars do. They should always ride on the right side of the street (in countries where people drive on the right) and give pedestrians the right of way. Cyclists should use hand signals to indicate turns and should never ride their bicycle against the flow of traffic.

If a cyclist is struck by a car, they should call the police immediately. It is helpful if the cyclist can get the driver’s license plate number and insurance information. The cyclist should also insist that the officer issue a traffic ticket to the driver if they are at fault. If the police refuse, the cyclist should file a complaint with a superior officer about the officers’ conduct or lack of knowledge of the bicycle laws.

A review of a bicycle will often begin with the writer saying that the bike allowed them to “rip through singletrack”, “blast corners”, or “shred rocks”. This is the author’s chance to puff up their chest and tell the world how great and talented they are. It is also a way to stoke up sales guys, advertisers and potential buyers who will then buy the product to prove that they are just as good as the reviewer thinks they are.