A bicycle, a pedal bike or simply a motorcycle is typically a small, two-wheeled land vehicle. When a person rides it, they use pedal power generated by their feet.

It is an environmentally friendly means of transportation, often called a green mode of travel. In English, it is called a bicycle, where "bi" signifies two, and "cycle" refers 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 eco-friendly transportation for commuting and travelling. Many people use bicycles for fitness and exercise, enjoying cycling for leisure and travel. Additionally, bicycles have become a competitive sport, featuring road cycling races, mountain biking competitions, track cycling events, and stunt cycling competitions.

In the late 18th century, a Frenchman named Sivrac invented the earliest version of the bicycle. This wooden bicycle had a simple structure, lacking a propulsion mechanism and a steering device. Riders had to propel themselves forward by pushing their feet on the ground, and when changing direction, they had to dismount and move the bike manually. Despite its limitations, Sivrac's bicycle drew astonishment and admiration when he rode it in the park.

In 1817, a German named Drais invented a wooden two-wheeled bicycle with handlebars in Paris, France. While still requiring foot pedalling for forward movement, this bicycle allowed riders to change direction while moving. It sparked significant interest, leading to mass production in Paris. By 1830, the French government even provided bicycles for postal workers as transportation. Subsequently, bicycle technology and performance continued to improve.

In 1839, a British inventor named Macmillan created the pedal-driven bicycle, allowing riders to pedal without touching the ground and increasing travel speed. The Renault bicycle, born in 1869, featured a steel frame, rims, spokes, and solid rubber tires, making it more lightweight. 1886 British engineer Starley designed a new bicycle style with a diamond-shaped frame, front fork, and brakes.

This marked the first use of rubber tires and equal-sized front and rear wheels for balance. Starley's innovations extended to the production machinery for bicycle components, earning him the title "Father of the Bicycle." The design of his bicycle closely resembles modern bicycles.

In 1887, British inventor Lawson completed the design of a chain-driven bicycle, and in the same year, Dunlop developed pneumatic (inflatable) tires. These advancements marked the commercialization of bicycle technology, leading to mass production and market availability.

The birth of bicycles also gave rise to cycling as a sport. The world's first bicycle race took place in France in 1868, covering a distance of 2 kilometres. The first World Amateur Cycling Championship was established in 1893, followed by the World Professional Cycling Championship in 1895.

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

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