Bicycle Chronicles
A bicycle, also called a bike or cycle, is a human-powered or motor-powered, pedal-driven, single-track vehicle, having two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the other.
In the last few decades, bicycles have gone from a symbol of prestige and riches to the poor man's daily commuter. In the early 19th century, only Ranas and a few rich elites could afford bicycles. By the early 70s, bicycles were much cheaper to buy and became a popular means of transport for common people, giving rise to a booming cycling culture at that time.
By the 90s, the social and economic uplifting of middle-class families meant cars and motorbikes became the preferred mode of transportation. The rapid motorization after the re-establishment of democracy marked the beginning of the decline of cycling culture. Roads once filled with bicycles were no longer safe for cycling.
In recent years, growing awareness of environmental issues and health concerns has meant the cycling culture is once again reviving. More and more youths are taking up cycling as a hobby or as a daily commute. We are also starting to see cycling lanes around city areas. There is a burgeoning bicycle sales market in Kathmandu Valley, and cycling culture is once again on the rise.
