The bicycle is a human-powered land vehicle with two wheels, a seat, and pedals. It uses a chain or other means to transmit power from the cranks to the rear wheel. It also has a frame to provide strength. Some versions use a shaft drive or special belts instead of a chain. The bike was invented in the early 19th century. Historians do not know who invented it, but they agree that it was probably a European invention. Leonardo da Vinci is credited with drawing a contraption that looked like a bicycle in 1492, but this drawing has been determined to be a forgery added later to his Codex Atlanticus.

The first bicycles were velocipedes, or “boneshakers.” They had wooden or iron wheels and a very hard ride. They were also very heavy, making them difficult to maneuver on the road. In the 1860s, French inventors began to add pedals to the front wheel of a velocipede, allowing riders to go faster and farther. This new design was called an ordinary, and it became the most popular type of bicycle in the United States in the 1880s.

A bicycle can be used for recreation, transportation, or competition. It is also used as a workhorse by many farmers and loggers, to haul logs or other cargo over long distances. Some competitions require the use of high-performance bicycles, which are generally designed and built for speed and endurance. They may be equipped with special tires, frames, and handlebars to improve their performance in these competitions.

Cycling is a great way to get exercise and fresh air, but it can be dangerous if the cyclist does not follow certain safety rules. In addition to wearing a helmet, the cyclist should be sure to wear sturdy shoes and clothing, especially when riding on rough roads or trails. He or she should also be aware of the environment around them, and should always obey traffic signals.

There are many types of bicycles available for people of different sizes and abilities. There are also some accessories available for bikes, such as racks and fenders. Some bikes are equipped with gears, which allow the rider to adjust the speed of the bicycle by using different chainrings.

Like any mechanical device, a bicycle requires regular maintenance and replacement of worn parts. Some bicycles are easy to repair, and others require the services of a professional mechanic. It is important for a cyclist to understand the basic construction of his or her bike, and to have access to tools and spare parts. In addition, the cyclist should have a good understanding of the laws and regulations of the area in which he or she plans to ride. Some countries have national bicycle standards that must be followed. Other countries have local or state bicycle codes that must be followed.