Originally Posted by
rock_ten
Looking around this forum, and the internet in general, at utility bikes, I notice that most or all have straight handlebars or "swept back" (is that the right term?) ones, and never drop handlebars or something like that. ....I would like to know the reasons behind this. Why are straight handle bars used primarily, and an upright position, rather than something more like a touring bike which is surely meant for good going at distance and with a load? Also, why the use of mountain bikes - is it only for the gears?...
It's mostly because the classic road bike "hunched over forward" position is not comfortable to ride in. It's good for power output, good for racing but lousy for riding comfort.
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Regarding making an extracycle: if it's possible for you to do, I would suggest getting a cheaper steel frame and cutting off the rear triangle and re-welding/brazing it all with longer tubes. You could even shift the bottom-bracket forward a few inches, for a Townie-like ride.
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