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A Bicycle in Good Repair
Describe ‘the fight’ between the man and the machine. Find the relevant sentences in the text and write them.
When the author’s friend doubled himself across the bicycle till he lost his balance and slid over on to his head, he lost his temper and tried bullying it. The bicycle showed spirit and there ensued a fight between him and the machine. One moment the bicycle was on the gravel path and he on top of it. The next moment the position was reversed. He became happy with his victory after the bicycle was firmly fixed between his legs. However, his triumph was short-lived. By a sudden, quick movement, the bicycle freed itself and hit him sharply over the head with one of its handles by turning upon him. After a while, he gave up, saying that. The bicycle looked as if it also had enough of it.
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“I got up early, for me.” It implies that
(i) He was an early riser.
(ii) He was a late riser.
(iii) He got up late that morning.
Mark the correct answer.
The bicycle “goes easily enough in the morning and a little stiffly after lunch.” The remark is
(i) Humorous.
(ii) Inaccurate.
(iii) Sarcastic.
(iv) Enjoyable.
(v) Meaningless.
Mark your choice(s).
The friend shook the bicycle violently. Find two or three sentences in the text which express the author’s disapproval of it.
“…if not, it would make a serious difference to the machine.” What does ‘it’ refer to?
Did the front wheel really wobble? What is your opinion? Give a reason for your answer.
In what condition did the author find the bicycle when he returned from the tool shed?
“Nothing is easier than taking off the gear-case.” Comment on or continue this sentence in the light of what actually happens.
What special treatment did the chain receive?
The friend has two qualities — he knows what he is doing and is absolutely sure it is good. Find the two phrases in the text which mean the same.
Describe ‘the fight’ between the man and the machine. Find the relevant sentences in the text and write them.
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