What was the first mass-produced bicycle?

The correct answer identifies the first mass-produced bicycle as the practical utility bicycle in 1914. This bike marked a significant development in bicycle manufacturing as it was designed for everyday use, emphasizing practicality and affordability. With the advent of mass production techniques, this bicycle became widely available to the general public, enabling a broader segment of society to access and utilize bicycles for commuting and utility purposes.

The significance of the practical utility bicycle lies in its design, which focused on comfort, stability, and ease of use, making it suitable for a wide demographic, including those who had not previously cycled. This innovation contributed to the popularization of cycling as a mode of transportation in the early 20th century.

In contrast, while the penny-farthing did achieve popularity in its time, it was not mass-produced in the same quantity or context. The racing bike and mountain bike emerged much later and were not the first to enter mass production. Their development came after the practical utility bicycle had already established itself as a foundational model in the history of cycling. Thus, the choice of the practical utility bicycle in 1914 as the first mass-produced bicycle is substantiated by its impact on cycling culture and manufacturing practices of the era.