When the car finally gives up the ghost, pedal power will bring it home…

Some folks will go to extraordinary lengths to make sure they have a cold beer at the end of the ride!

While photos like these both amuse and amaze, it’s worth remembering that in much of the world the bicycle is a major transport option. According to David Simon in “Transport and Development in the Third World”:

Bicycles represent one of the most widespread and versatile forms of rural transport, greatly increasing mobility and accessibility both on and off roads, enabling substantial loads to be carried as well, and requiring no fuel as such. However they do need significant investment for purchase – sometimes the equivalent of a month’s income or more. [p. 87-8]

These are workhorse bikes—they must pay their way.

For those who can afford it, opportunities may exist to recoup some or all of the outlay by hiring out the bike when it is not in use. [p. 26]

And of course bicycles are attractive because they are flexible, simple, and adaptable:

No special facilities are required, although they should be ridden on paths or better tracks. Maintenance is easy and comparatively cheap unless tyre tubes have to be replace frequently…Numerous modifications have been made in different contexts to strengthen the frame for load carrying, to fit large panniers or other containers or even attach small trailers behind the saddle. [p. 88]

In the urban context, where especially among low-income groups, non-motorised private transport remains important [p. 100]:

The usefulness of bicycles is maximised for journeys up to a few kilometres, although many cyclists plainly travel much further. [p. 102]

But, alas, there is this same sad story the world over:

Congestion, pollution and safety risks often become deterrents to widespread use, especially as cities grow and car ownership rises. In the absence of dedicated cycle lanes or other facilities, cyclists often account for a disproportionate share of road accident injuries and fatalities. [p. 103]

Anyway, if you’re interested in utility cycling in developing countries, I heartily recommend you have a look at WorldBike.org.

[Photos acquired from among others of precariously overloaded bikes and motorcycles at Lords of the Logistic.]