Why would the chain be a problem? The Romans could make metal rods, rivets, and some of their finer metalwork is crafted with more precision than any bicycle ch

Why would the chain be a problem? The Romans could make metal rods, rivets, and some of their finer metalwork is crafted with more precision than any bicycle chain. The real difference is that it would take an army of ancient craftsmen to make one bike. The real distinguishing factor with modernity is mass manufacturing and precision at scale. Even moreso income inequality and competition with slavery. Any roman who could afford a bicycle would rightly think it was rubbish compared to a horse. All this expense just to propel myself around?! The same goes for most modern conveniences. Even the best modern dishwasher is less efficient than a human slave doing the same task, if you're indifferent to the suffering of the slave, as the Romans were.