Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Bicycles” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Basics of Bicycles
1. What is a bicycle?
2. How is a bicycle different from a motorbike?
3. Can you name some parts of a bicycle?
4. Why do people ride bicycles?
5. How many wheels does a typical bicycle have?

II. Types of Bicycles
6. What is a mountain bike?
7. How does a road bike differ from a cruiser bike?
8. Have you heard of tandem bicycles?
9. What is a BMX bike?
10. Can you name a type of bicycle used for racing?

III. Learning to Ride
11. At what age did you learn to ride a bicycle?
12. Who taught you to ride a bicycle?
13. How did you feel when you first rode a bicycle?
14. What are some safety tips for new bicycle riders?
15. Why is it important to balance on a bicycle?

IV. Bicycle Brands and Manufacturers
16. Can you name some famous bicycle brands?
17. Which country is known for its bicycle culture?
18. Have you heard of the brand “Giant”?
19. Which brand makes the model “Venge”?
20. Do you have a favorite bicycle brand?

V. Maintenance and Repairs
21. Why is it important to maintain a bicycle?
22. How often should you check a bicycle’s brakes?
23. What happens if a bicycle’s chain is rusty?
24. Do you know how to pump air into bicycle tires?
25. How do you keep a bicycle’s gears in good condition?

VI. Buying and Using Bicycles
26. Have you ever bought a bicycle?
27. Would you prefer a new bicycle or a used one?
28. Why is it important to test ride a bicycle before buying?
29. What factors should you consider when choosing a bicycle?
30. How can someone sell their old bicycle?

VII. Traveling by Bicycle
31. Have you ever been on a long bicycle trip?
32. What’s the advantage of traveling by bicycle over a car?
33. Why do some people use bicycles for commuting?
34. What items should you carry on a long bicycle journey?
35. How do you navigate when riding a bicycle?

VIII. Bicycle Safety
36. Why should you wear a helmet when riding a bicycle?
37. How can you ride safely in wet or icy conditions?
38. Why is it important to have lights on your bicycle?
39. What should you do if your bicycle’s brakes fail?
40. Why should you obey traffic rules when riding a bicycle?

IX. Future of Bicycles
41. How are bicycles becoming more environmentally friendly?
42. Have you heard of electric bicycles?
43. How might bicycles evolve in the future?
44. Do you think more cities will become bicycle-friendly?
45. Would you use a bicycle with smart features, like GPS?

X. Bicycles in Popular Culture
46. Can you name a movie or song that features bicycles?
47. Have you heard of famous bicycle races like the Tour de France?
48. Who is a famous cyclist you know?
49. Do you have a favorite bicycle from a story or show?
50. Why do you think bicycles symbolize freedom in some cultures?

XI. Personal Experiences with Bicycles
51. Do you own a bicycle?
52. Where do you usually ride your bicycle?
53. Have you ever participated in a bicycle race or event?
54. What’s the longest distance you’ve traveled on a bicycle?
55. Where would you like to go on a bicycle trip?

XII. Miscellaneous Bicycle Questions
56. Why do some people decorate their bicycles?
57. How do you feel about shared or rental bicycle systems in cities?
58. Why do cyclists often ride in groups or teams?
59. How do bicycles benefit our health and environment?
60. Why are bicycles popular in parks and recreational areas?