Present Day Use
Utility bicycles are principally used for short-distance commuting, running errands, shopping, leisure or for transporting goods or merchandise. Utility bikes may also be seen in postal service, in war, and for employee transportation inside large workplaces (factories, warehouses, airports, movie studio lots, etc.). In some countries, entire fleets of utility bicycles may be operated or administered by local or national government agencies as part of a public bike sharing programme.
Utility bicycles often feature a step-through frame so they can be easily mounted, single speed, or with internal hub gearing, and drum brakes to reduce the need for maintenance, mudguards to keep the rider's clothing clean, a chain guard to prevent skirts or loose trousers from being caught in the chain, a skirt guard to prevent a long skirt catching in the rear brakes, a center stand kickstand so it can be parked easily, and a basket or pannier rack to carry personal possessions or shopping bags.
In Singapore, and sometimes Malaysia, old utility bicycles are often seen with the windshields and engine covers of 125 cc (7.6 cu in) motorbikes and painted in highly attractive colors. Although virtually none have a real engine attached for them, most of them are used for decoration only. Many choose this type of bicycle due to the low price (relatively) and availability.
Read more about this topic: Utility Bicycle
Famous quotes containing the words present and/or day:
“You were born into a different world that will present you with different gifts and challenges. A new vision of manhood will be called for that does not tie so closely into the more aggressive and competitive residues of our male character. You will need to search out new ways of expressing strength, showing mastery, and exhibiting courage—ways that do not depend upon confronting the world before you as an adversary.”
—Kent Nerburn (20th century)
“When you have a lot to put into them, the day has a hundred pockets.”
—Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900)