citycyklar

Citycykel is a bicycle designed for urban transportation. In Swedish usage, the term refers to practical, everyday bicycles intended for commuting, shopping, and short trips within a city. The design emphasizes comfort, durability, and ease of use, with an upright riding position and a frame that is easy to mount and dismount, often a step-through configuration.

Common features include fully enclosed chain guard, full-length fenders, a rear rack for cargo, front and rear lights, a bell, and puncture-resistant tires. Many models use internal-gear hubs or belt drives for low maintenance, and many include a built-in lock on the frame or a mounted frame lock. Some city bikes also feature dynamo-powered lights or integrated pannier racks.

There are non-electric city bikes and electric city bikes (e-city bikes). The latter add an electric assist motor to help with hills and longer trips. City bikes are used by commuters, students, couriers, and for leisure; they are common in bike-sharing systems where vehicles are available for short-term rental in the city.

The concept emerged in the early to mid-20th century in European cities with a need for reliable, low-maintenance transport. Dutch, Danish, and German designers influenced many city bikes. In recent decades, urban cycling infrastructure and sustainability goals have sustained demand for city bikes. Regulations often require front and rear lights, reflectors, a bell, and sometimes a license; helmet use varies by country.