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.
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