How Does a Bicycle Work? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage

Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn how a bicycle works. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.

A bicycle moves when pedals, a chain, and wheels work together.

Reading Level

A2-B1

Word Count

239 words

Reading Passage

A bicycle is a simple machine that helps a person move faster than walking. It has two wheels, a seat, handlebars, pedals, a chain, and brakes.

When a rider pushes a pedal, the pedals turn around. The pedals are connected to a chain. The chain moves power from the rider's legs to the back wheel.

When the back wheel turns, it pushes against the ground. The ground pushes back, and the bicycle moves forward. The front wheel helps the rider steer.

The handlebars turn the front wheel left or right. This helps the rider choose a path. The brakes slow the wheels down when the rider wants to stop.

A bicycle also needs balance. When the bicycle is moving, small steering changes help it stay upright. The rider also moves their body a little to stay steady.

Gears can make riding easier. A low gear helps when going up a hill. A higher gear can help the bicycle go faster on flat ground.

A bicycle works because many simple parts share the job. Legs push pedals, the chain turns a wheel, the rider balances, and the brakes help the bicycle stop safely.

Pedals turn the chain, the chain turns the wheel, and brakes help the rider stop.

Key Vocabulary

Word	Meaning	Example
bicycle	a vehicle with two wheels that a person pedals	I ride my bicycle to school.
pedal	a part you push with your foot to move a bicycle	Push the pedal to move forward.
chain	a line of metal links that moves power from pedals to a wheel	The chain turns the back wheel.
wheel	a round part that turns	Each wheel rolls on the ground.
balance	the ability to stay steady and not fall	Balance helps the rider stay upright.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What happens when a rider pushes the pedals?
2. What does the chain do?
3. Which wheel helps the rider steer?
4. What do brakes do?
5. Why is balance important on a bicycle?

Answers

1. The pedals turn around.
2. The chain moves power from the rider's legs to the back wheel.
3. The front wheel helps the rider steer.
4. Brakes slow the wheels down.
5. Balance helps the rider stay upright and not fall.

Short Summary

A bicycle moves when the rider pushes the pedals and the chain turns the back wheel. Steering, balance, gears, and brakes help the rider move safely.

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