This is an interesting challenge! I would add to the list above:
· A a power-assist option, in addition to IGH - Even a strong person may need to recur to this in a city like Portland if you're carrying heavy loads. Not sure if this is allowed in such competition, although due to their nature, utility bikes are normally heavy and can prove "scary" to many people. Power-assist hopefully is allowed.
· Another nice thing design-wise is something along the lines of "modular" features - things such as porteur racks, child seats, etc. that one could easily add or remove from the bike. Most of the time, they just add weight or get on the way if one doesn't use them everyday or if one wants to use the bike simply for commuting or recreational purposes.
· A frame design that allows being able to get on/off the bike easily (even if loaded) with adjustable features such as incline of the headset. Actually, there is a thread in the commuting forum with this interesting headset that literally on can adjust on the go. That would come in so handy if one wants to go from an upright (recreational, hauling) to a more aggressive position (off-road, windy days, hammering). Here is that fellow’s thread and website:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/626019-New-Accessory/page3
http://www.jlsdesignworks.com/
Last edited by Chris Pringle; 04-17-11 at 07:40 PM.