
BICYCLE
A bicycle is a human-powered, two-wheeled transportation vehicle.
The bicycle transfers power from the legs to the wheels via pedals. Some designs also use a motor for assistance. These latter ones are called motorcycles or electric bicycles—distinct from a bicycle.
To give a starting point for the history of cycling, it is accepted to be 19th century Europe. Initially used as a hobby and recreational tool, the bicycle later became one of the basic transportation vehicles in many countries. Today, it is claimed that there are more than 1 billion bicycles in the world —more than the number of cars.
Basic bicycle types can be listed as city bikes, mountain bikes, and road-racing bikes. Other classifications can also be made—based on function, number of riders, hardware structure, etc.
The parts of a bicycle can simply be listed as the frame, drivetrain and braking system, handlebars, saddle, and wheels.
Beyond its birth as a recreational tool, the bicycle soon developed into a widely used transportation vehicle and a sport with organized competitions. It took its place in the Olympics at the end of the 19th century. Bicycle races are held in road, track, cyclo-cross, mountain, and BMX categories. Competitions are managed by the Turkish Cycling Federation in our country and by the UCI globally.
