What Are Conventional Two-and-Three-Wheelers?

On the bustling streets of the Global South, where mobility is a crucial aspect of daily life, two-and-three-wheelers play a central role in shaping the transport landscape. From bicycles and scooters to motorcycles and rickshaws, these vehicles are the heartbeat of efficient and accessible commuting. In this context, “conventional” refers to vehicles that are either human-powered or have a small internal combustion engine.

This article will mainly:

• Describe conventional two-and-three-wheelers
• Demonstrate the capabilities of each type of two-and-three-wheeler according to its use and structure.

Overview of conventional two-wheelers

Kick-scooter

A small, human-powered vehicle with a handlebar, a deck to stand on, and typically two small wheels. It is propelled by kicking the ground with one foot, and is commonly used for short-distance commuting.

Close-up of a kick-scooter. Unsplash (2021)

Bicycle

A two-wheeled vehicle powered by pedals that are operated by the rider’s feet. It usually has a frame, handlebars for steering, and a saddle for the rider. Bicycles are commonly used for transportation and recreation.

Bicycles parked. SUTP (2007)

Motorcycle

A two-wheeled motorized vehicle powered by an engine. It typically has a frame and a seat for the rider. Motorcycles are designed for different purposes, including commuting, sport, and touring.

Motorcycle in Africa. Unsplash (2019)

Rickshaw

A three-wheeled vehicle, often with a small cabin or seat for passengers. It is usually pedal-powered by a human operator (cycle rickshaw) or motor-powered (auto rickshaw). Rickshaws are commonly used for short-distance transport in many parts of the world.

Rickshaws parked. Tech Crunch (2015)

Conclusion

At their core, two-and-three-wheelers are innovative solutions for urban mobility. Their compact design offers a sustainable alternative to larger conventional vehicles.

By tackling the issues of traffic congestion and pollution, these modes of transport have the potential to revolutionize urban mobility, thereby driving positive change for cities and the environment.

In many countries of the Global South, conventional two-and-three-wheelers are the primary mode of transport.