China is a land of bicycles. At least it was back in 1992 when I traveled around the country. Everyone seemed to be riding a bicycle. Millions of them are black. Cars were rare. Yet since my arrival in Beijing, I've found the opposite (对立面) is true. There are millions of cars.
However, people still use their bicycles to get around. For many, it's the easiest and cheapest way to travel today. Bicycles also come in different colors — silver, green, red, blue, yellow, whatever you want.
It's fun watching people biking. They rush quickly through crossroads, move skillfully through traffic, and ride even on pavements. Bicycles allow people the freedom to move about that cars just can't provide.
Wanting to be part of this way of Chinese culture, I decided to buy a bicycle. After my great buy, I immediately jumped up on my bicycle seat and started home.
My first ride home was orderly (守秩序的). To be
safe, I stayed with a "pack" of bikers while cars on the streets came running swiftly out of nowhere at times. I didn't want to get hit. So I took the ride carefully.
Crossing the streets was the biggest problem. It was a lot like crossing a major highway back in the United States. The streets here were wide, so crossing took time, skill and a little bit of luck.
I finally made it home. The feeling on the bicycle was amazing. The air was hitting my face and going through my hair. I was sitting on top of the world as I passed by places and people. Biking made me feel alive.
According to the author, why are bicycles still popular in China today?

A．Because they are traditional and safe.

B．Because they are convenient (方便的) and cheap.

C．Because they are colorful and beautiful.

D．Because they are fast and environmentally friendly.

The author decided to buy a bicycle because he meant _________.

A．to ride it for fun

B．to use it for transport

C．to experience local culture

D．to improve his riding skills

How did the author feel about his street cross-ing?

A．It was boring.	B．It was difficult.
C．It was lively.	D．It was wonderful.

Which of the following best describes the author's biking experience?

A．The author enjoyed showing off his biking skills.

B．The author was angry at the air while riding.

C．The author was praised by other bikers.

D．The author took great pleasure in biking.