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beijing tricycles
Despite its rapid acceleration into the world of automotive traffic jams
and smog, Beijing has retained a strong connection to the bicycle, and its
third wheel cousin the tricycle. Their presence is most felt in the narrow
alleys of the hutong districts where cars have a difficult time maneuvering.
Here in the alleys the bike remains a utilitarian object, used for hauling
garbage, materials and people as well as establishing the means for countless
mobile businesses. In Beijing, biking is not a leisure or sporting activity,
it is foremost a work activity and a mean to an end. Given their emphasis
on functionality over looks, many bikes have been modified or custom built
to fit the unique demands of their owner.
mac kane