Practical Cycling Comes of Age
This is a Bakfiest or box bike. People all over the world have used these to haul children, carry groceries, even construction materials, for decades. The advent of The e-bike revolution has brought back these and many more practical bikes. This one has been converted into a torque sensing mid-drive by Moline’s Dean Wright of Wright’s Cyclery (frame builder extraordinaire).
Because of electric assist, pactical bikes remain practical, over much longer distances. They get more folks on bikes and out of their cars. This reduces congestion, fuel consumption and pollution. While not cheap, by traditional cycling standards, they are nothing compared to owning and maintaining even a used car. That’s big news for those who never again will be able to afford safe or reliable traditional transportation. It’s good news for folks like me too. I just can’t bare to spend $400+/mo. on such a bad investment.
This particular practical bike is supremely comfortable,. It’s that long wheelbase (compare to a limousine). The same can be said about Dutch style commuter bikes, long tail cargo bikes, touring and adventure bikes (think luxury cars or SUV’s). The emphasis isn’t on exercise or going faster, but doing more, comfortably and with more style (we’ve needed alternatives to cycling’s Ferraris). Some refer to this as Copenhagenizing.
This doesn’t mean lighter, more efficient frames and components aren’t important. We want range and easy handling. We are finally just beginning to apply them to more sensible bikes for the average person. I mean, do we really want to enter a race, race to work or run around in cycling specific clothing and tap shoes?
Look for more bikes like these. You’ll be seeing them at your local stores. Parked in front of your business and at your favorite pub. Function and style over speed.
