At the end of 19th century, bicycles were brought into China from the west and became toys for nobles in imperial palaces. In the 1960s and 1970s, bicycles, sewing machines and watches became the three most important things for young people's weddings.

Then, in the 1980s, bicycles of "Flying Pigeon" and "Forever" brands were the most ideal transportation tools of the people, and the bicycle had gradually become the most important and popularized transportation tool among people in China. At that time, the splendid flow of bicycles in the daily rush hours made China a "Bicycle Kingdom" in the eyes of foreigners.

As the Reform and Opening-Up keeps progressing, the quality of people's lives also keeps rising. In the 1990s, the bicycle was no longer the symbol of a transportation tool, and its role in common people's lives was also changing gradually. The flows of bicycles in cities are fading, and the number of people who still choose bicycles as their transportation method is also becoming less and less, but the number of Chinese people who have a brand-new understanding towards bicycles is gradually increasing.

Sociologists predict that the diversification of the transportation methods does not mean bicycles will be completely abandoned by people in China. As people's awareness of environmental protection and fitness grows, people will again choose this healthy transportation tool that creates no noise and pollution. In addition, the physical exercise function of the bicycle and the unique charm of maximal exercise of the bicycle will attracted more and more young people.

At present, the various types of bicycles running in the streets and lanes do not represent only a common transportation tool any more. They also represent a good method for people to enjoy fitness and leisure. Meanwhile, as the number of automobiles is consistently increasing, they are causing more and more traffic, environment and energy problems and therefore, travelling by bicycle is becoming a new lifestyle that people are chasing.

By People's Daily Online/Xinhua