Bikes Rerun #77

A bicycle, often called a bike, "pedal bike", "pedal cycle", or "cycle", is a human-powered, pedal-driven, single-track vehicle, having two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other. Has always been considered the most efficient form of transportation. A bicycle rider is called a cyclist, or bicyclist.

"The public has an insatiable curiosity to know everything,

except what is worth knowing"

Bicycles were introduced in the 19th century in Europe and in a couple of decades were plentiful in the US. They now number more than a billion worldwide, twice as many as automobiles. They are the principal means of transportation in many regions. On Hawaii, they also provide a popular form of recreation, and have been adapted for use as children's toys, general fitness, military and police applications, courier services, and bicycle racing.

 

"A Bicycle Built For Two" 1892

In many ways, there has never been a better time to be a bicyclist on Oahu. The number of cylists has been increasing slowly for a number of years. Now with the coming Disaster of the Rail and the obvious deterioration of public transportation it has become imperative for quite a few citizens. Just to get around, commute to work. Progressive mayors in many cities in the US are laying down bike paths and installing bike racks in many public parking lots.

A Flying Pigeon in Hutong.

The classic Flying Pigeon bicycles are the PA-02 and PA-06 (men's) and PB-13 (women's). These are one of the most iconic symbols of old China (the sturdy, single speed black roadster bicycle ridden by the masses). And fully aware that Oahu wants to do everything possible to avoid the Rail Humbug.

They are simple, conceived of as a working machine meant to last a lifetime. They are strong, all-steel single speed with 28 in (710 mm) wheels, fenders, fully covered chain, sprung leather saddle, rear rack and rod brakes (a handlebar lever connects directly to the brake pads), double stand (PA02 and PA06) or side stand (PB13). Like the Ford Model T, they are only available in one color, black, except for the flare of vanilla at the fender tips. They can be equipped with a dynamo lighting set.

The government estimates that a half-billion bikes are in use throughout China, many handed down through generations. The Pigeon is one of the few nostalgically-regarded artifacts of China's postrevolutionary era, which was darkened by the Cultural Revolution and intense poverty.

The company does not advertise its traditional bicycles such as the PA-02 as the brand is so infused in Chinese society and culture and much of the brand's old rolling stock is still in service. There are, however, localized advertising campaigns. And they are now coming into Oahu. The Rail Mess is goofing up a lot of people but Bike Riders can take advantage.