Complete each sentence choosing the correct option
In the West, adult-sized tricycles are used primarily for recreation, shopping, and exercise. Tricycles are favored by children and senior adults for their apparent stability versus a bicycle; however a conventional trike has poor dynamic lateral stability, and the rider must take care when cornering to avoid tipping the trike over. Unconventional designs such as recumbents have a lower centre of gravity so require less care.
A three-wheeled wheelchair was built in 1655 or 1680 by a disabled German man, Stephan Farffler, who wanted to be able to maintain his mobility. Since he was a watch-maker, he was able to create a vehicle that was powered by hand cranks.
In 1789, two French inventors developed a three-wheeled vehicle, powered by pedals; They called it the tricycle.
In 1818, British inventor Denis Johnson patented his approach to designing tricycles. In 1876, James Starley developed the Coventry Lever Tricycle, which used two small wheels on the right side and a large drive wheel on the left side; power was supplied by hand levers. In 1877, Starley developed a new vehicle he called the Coventry Rotary, which was "one of the first rotary chain drive tricycles." Starley's inventions started a tricycling craze in Britain; by 1879, there were "twenty types of tricycles and multi-wheel cycles. The first front steering tricycle was manufactured in 1881 by The Leicester Safety Tricycle Company of Leicester, England, which was brought to the market in 1882 costing £18.
Tricycles were used by riders who did not feel comfortable on the high wheelers, such as women who wore long, flowing dresses.
Practice your writing skills by discussing the questions below
- Are tricycles common in your country?
- What are the most popular modes/forms of public transportation in your country?