Why does the passage say the early pedal machines were unpopular?
The first bicycles, built in the early nineteenth century, had no pedals; riders pushed themselves along with their feet. Pedals were added to the front wheel in the 1860s, but these machines were heavy and uncomfortable. In the 1880s, the "safety bicycle" appeared, with two wheels of equal size and a chain driving the rear wheel. It was easier to ride and quickly became popular. Many historians believe it helped change society by giving ordinary people, including women, a cheap way to travel independently.
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. They were heavy and uncomfortable
- Step 1: The passage describes the machines of the 1860s as heavy and uncomfortable.
- Step 2: That limited their popularity.
Answer
They were heavy and uncomfortable.
Why not the others: Cheapness, missing wheels and speed are not mentioned.
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