The OP's link isnt working on my mac but I grew up in India in the 70's and saw tons of these. They were basically used as an everyday workhorse, to carry all kinds of things including people. Very sturdy, obviously and presumably very reliable too.
I've ridden them a couple of times. I had a BSA also made in India which was my pride and joy for a long time!
EDIT: IIRC these bikes were called Hercules at the time
Last edited by deburn; 08-20-08 at 08:00 PM.
Reason: added the bit about hercules