Here's why:
* Short vowel sounds are typically quick and sharp. They often sound like the first sound in the letter name (e.g., the "i" in "bit" sounds like the "i" in the alphabet).
* Long vowel sounds are typically drawn out and often sound like the letter name (e.g., the "i" in "bike" is a long vowel sound).
In the word "bike," the "i" sound is short and sharp, like the "i" in "bit" or "pig."