Submitted by admin on Thu, 2006-12-21 01:01.
Utility cycling encompasses any cycling not done primarily for fitness, recreation such as cycle touring, or sport such as cycle racing, but simply as a means of transport.
It is the most common type of cycling in the world. In the Chinese city of Beijing alone, there an estimated four million bicycles in use (It has been estimated that in the early 1980s there were approximately 500 million cyclists in China). It generally involves travelling short and medium distances (several kilometres). It includes commuting, going to school, high school or college, making errands, and delivering goods or services. In cities, the bicycle courier is often a familiar feature, and freight bicycles are capable of competing with trucks and vans particularly where many small deliveries are required, especially in congested areas.
Utility bicycles have many standard features to enhance their usefulness and comfort. Chainguards and mudguards, or fenders, protect clothes and moving parts from oil and spray. Kick stands help with parking. Front-mounted wicker or steel baskets for carrying goods are often used.
Trailers of various types and load capacities may be towed to greatly increase cargo capacity. Rear racks or carriers can be used to carry items such as school satchels. Parents sometimes add rear-mounted child seats and/or an auxiliary saddle fitted to the crossbar to transport children. Trailers or special luggage racks (including water proof packing bags) enable the transport of goods. There are projects to support low tech approaches by providing plans over the Internet to build cargo trailers without welding or tube bending.
In many jurisdictions, bicycles must be fitted with a bell, and after dark, front and rear lights. A fluorescent or reflective vest or armbands can also be very useful for night-time journeys, although these are not an alternative to a legally compliant lighting system.
Protective raingear is often an essential part of the utility cyclists' wardrobe, especially in countries with high rainfall levels.
So true!!!