The bicycle, a pedal bike or simply a motorcycle is typically a two-wheeled small land vehicle.

When a person rides it, they use the pedals for power, making it an eco-friendly mode of transportation.

The term "bicycle" is derived from the prefix "bi," meaning two, and "cycle," referring to wheels, indicating a vehicle with two wheels. There are various types of bicycles, including single-person bikes, tandem bikes for two riders, and even multi-person bikes.

Bicycles serve as environmentally friendly transportation for commuting and travel. Additionally, many people use bicycles as fitness equipment for exercise and recreational biking. Moreover, bicycles are involved in competitive sports such as road cycling, mountain biking, track cycling, and stunt biking.

In the late 18th century, the Frenchman Sivrac invented the earliest form of the bicycle. This wooden bicycle had a simple structure, lacking a propulsion mechanism and steering device. Riders propelled the bike forward by pedalling with their feet and changing direction, which required dismounting and physically moving the bike.

Despite its limitations, Sivrac's bicycle amazed and impressed onlookers when he took it for a ride in the park. The first practical bicycles emerged in the early 19th century.

In 1817, the German Drais invented a wooden two-wheeled bicycle with handlebars in Paris, France. Although it still required pedalling for propulsion, this bicycle allowed riders to change direction while moving. Its introduction sparked immense interest, leading to mass production and widespread use of bicycles on the streets of Paris.

In 1830, the French government even provided bicycles to mail carriers for transportation. Subsequently, bicycle technology and performance underwent continuous improvement.

In 1839, the British inventor Macmillan developed the pedal-driven bicycle, enabling riders to increase their speed without pedalling on the ground. The 1869 Renault bicycle featured a steel frame, steel-rimmed wheels with spokes, and solid rubber tyres, making it more lightweight. In 1886, the British engineer Starley designed a new bicycle style with a diamond-shaped frame, front fork, and brakes.

Starley's innovations extended to the production machinery, contributing to the mass production and widespread use of bicycles. He is often referred to as the "father of the bicycle." In 1887, the British inventor Lawson completed the design of a chain-driven bicycle, and that same year, Dunlop invented pneumatic tyres. These developments marked the commercialization of bicycle technology, leading to mass production and market availability.

The advent of bicycles also gave rise to bicycle sports. The first bicycle race took place in France in 1868, covering a distance of 2 kilometres. 1893, the first World Amateur Cycling Championship was organized, followed by the establishment of the World Professional Cycling Championship in 1895.

Bicycle racing became a significant event in the Olympic Games in 1896. Today, there are hundreds of bicycle races, with the Tour de France covering 3,900 kilometres being the most famous.

In modern life, stress has become a pervasive issue for many people. Cycling is an excellent way to relieve stress and relax. During a ride, individuals can enjoy solitude and freedom, appreciate the beauty of nature, and use the alone time for reflection. While savouring the outdoor scenery, riders can forget life's troubles, maintaining a positive mindset and reducing anxiety and tension.