Utility Cycling - folding bike as utility bike?

hi all,

I have learned here, that mostly, utility cycling is about steel bikes, long bikes, cargo bikes and trailers.
what about a folding bike?
since I live a bit far from the capital city (35 miles) for the last two years now, I have now a folding bike, to get more easily on the train or bus.
does a folding bike count as a utilty bike?
I don't have a car right now, so running errands are also done with the bike..

any suggestions how to outfit the (folding) bike to haul stuff too, except attaching a trailer??
thanks for suggestions...

Having a trailer is ideal...



As are paniers...

Some folders, notably Brompton, have luggage mounting systems, and when the bag's full, you can just strap and hang stuff pretty much anywhere... That's a tent hanging off the saddle, and a sleeping bag strapped to the outside of the front bag.

The fact that it is a folder folds makes it utility. My folder has fenders and a rack. It rides in the back of my car so when I am away from home in that thing I have a bike. I generally ride it for transportation and to haul stuff but seldom for fun.:)

Folders are great utilitybikes. I like to have a small rack in the front. That way I can use a backpac that is hanging on the bars, resting on the small rack. When you leave the bike you carry the backpack on your back.

I like baskets, they can be fixed to the bike or remowable.

Remember small wheels are stronger than big wheels. Also they carry the weight low, that is a plus.

They also work great with trailers.

Many folders has got a weight limit, find out the limit for your bike. If you are heavy or carrying a lot best to use a trailer for heavy stuff.

There are some bomb proof vintage folders around. Maybe get one of those?

You might want to try one of the removable front baskets. The basket can be used as a market basket and then put it back on the bike. Some bungee cords for bulky items will also help immensely.

This is a great trailer for you. You can take it innside shops if you want.

The fact that it is a folder folds makes it utility. My folder has fenders and a rack. It rides in the back of my car so when I am away from home in that thing I have a bike. I generally ride it for transportation and to haul stuff but seldom for fun.:)

The same with my folder. (Montague Paratrooper.)

Thread for folding utility bikes: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=487270

Here it is! http://www.bikesandtrailers.com/