A
China is a land of bicycles. At least it was back in 1992 when I traveled the country. Back then everyone seemed to be riding a bicycle. Millions of them, all black. Cars were rare. Yet since my arrival in Beijing last year, I’ve found it is not 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 sidewalks(人行道). Bicycles allow people the freedom to move about that cars just can’ t provide.
Eager to be part of this aspect of Chinese culture, I decided to buy a bicycle. Great weather came with 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 fast 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 pleasant. The air hitting my face and going through my hair was wonderful. I was sitting on top of the world as I passed by places and people. Biking made me feel alive.
21．According to the writer, why are bicycles still popular in China today?
A．Because they are safe.
B．Because they are convenient and inexpensive.
C．Because they are colorful and fast.
D．Because they are fast.
22．The writer decided to buy a bicycle because he planned ________.
A．to ride it for fun B．to use it for transport
C．to experience local culture D．to improve his riding skills
23．Which of the following best describes（描述）the author’ s biking experience?
A．The author enjoyed showing off his biking skills.
B．The author was annoyed（烦扰）by the air while riding.
C．The author was encouraged by the other bikers.
D．The author took great pleasure in biking.
