Definition

Noun: A type of bicycle characterized by having two wheels of equal size, where the pedals are connected to the rear wheel via a chain-driven, gear-multiplying mechanism. This design, which became standard in the late 19th century, offered greater stability and safety compared to earlier high-wheeled bicycles (penny-farthings).

Usage

The term "safety bike" is used to describe the modern bicycle's archetypal design and to distinguish it historically from its more dangerous predecessors. - The invention of the safety bike in the 1880s made cycling accessible to the general public. - Museum exhibits often contrast the penny-farthing with the later safety bike.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The phrase is primarily used in historical or technical discussions about the evolution of bicycle design.
• As a Milestone: It can symbolize a pivotal innovation in personal transportation.

Variants and Related Words

• Safety bicycle: A full, synonymous term for "safety bike."
• Chain-driven bicycle: A descriptive term highlighting the key mechanical feature.
• Penny-farthing: The direct predecessor to the safety bike, characterized by a large front wheel and a small rear wheel.

Synonyms

• Modern bicycle (in a historical context)
• Chain-driven cycle

Antonyms

• Penny-farthing
• High-wheeler
• Ordinary (bicycle)

Noun

1. bicycle that has two wheels of equal size; pedals are connected to the rear wheel by a multiplying gear