Exercise 3: sample answer

Because a new machine cost a large part of a skilled worker's yearly pay, early riders were mostly well-off young men (check). The machines were hard to ride and best used on good roads, so riders gathered in groups for company, safety and shared interests. Clubs organised runs, races and tours, wore uniforms, and campaigned for better roads and the right to use them. A national touring body was formed in the late 1870s (check). In this way the machine created a new social activity as well as a new vehicle.