2. Personal and Public Transport- Historical and Societal Influences

Question 1

Describe the first bicycle?

Answer 1

• consists of a simple frame with wooden beams connecting two wheels
• moving device was through pushing off the ground with legs
• first machine to be mass produced.

Question 2

what were some of the problems with first bicycles?

Answer 2

• lack of efficiency

- not ergonomically fit

Question 3

List some improvements in the design of the bicycle

Answer 3

• mechanical propulsion (rock and pinon) 1821
• pedal power (1839)
• gearing and mechanical advantage
• ergonomic improvements (seat position and handle mounts)

Question 4

List some material improvements to bicycles which added to stiffness, flexibility, formability, corrosion resistance and strength to weight ratio

Answer 4

• Aluminium alloys in attempt to save weight
• steels in chain and gear clusters (strength and fabrication)
• Steel alloys such as chromium Molybdenum (strength to weight ratio)
• carbon fibre tough strong materials

Question 5

Advantages of bicycles over other transport sytems

Answer 5

• cheap
• mass production
• accessible to everyone
• environmentally friendly (fuel and production)
• efficiency (pedal power, mechanical advantage, light)