Where have the bicycles gone?

India along with China account for more than half of bicycles made worldwide . While China still has an active bicycling culture, it is not as robust here in India. Upward social mobility, poor roads countrywide and traffic congestion are the chief reasons for the decline of the bicycle,which remained the most used form of personal transportation a full decade and more after independence. However, there is a revival in the form of fitness cycling even though Indian roads are not congenial to cycling as a hobby or for fitness, much less commuting.
Indian bicycle makers are seeking to take advantage of this growing niche and preparing a slew of products from their stables that include high end electric and sports bicycles. They are also considering affordable electric cycles for the masses. Is the wheel coming full circle?. Read more >