single-speed models were popular with workers, and there was a waiting list of several years to get one, and even then buyers needed good guanxi (connections) in addition to the purchase cost, which was about four months' wages for most workers. Traditional models The classic Flying Pigeon bicycles are the PA-02 and PA-06 (men's) and PB-13 (women's): single speed black roadsters. They are simple, relative to other bicycles. They are all-steel single speed with wheels, fenders, fully covered chain, sprung leather saddle, rear rack and rod brakes (a handlebar lever connects directly to the brake pads), double stand (PA02 and PA06) or side stand (PB13). Like the Ford Model T, they are only available in one colour, black, except for the flare of vanilla at the fender tips. They can be equipped with a dynamo lighting set. These specifications are standard to all three models, except where otherwise noted. by (ISO 635) wheels, 32 spokes in front, 40 spokes in the rear, Westwood rims. Rear hub , front hub OLD Chain wheel 42 teeth, sprocket 20 teeth frame size (PA-06 also available in ) Single-speed gearing of 58.8 gear inches PA-02 The classic Flying Pigeon bicycle is the PA-02, a single-speed with 28-inch wheels, mudguards (fenders), a fully enclosed chain case, a rear rack and rod-actuated brakes. The typically available color is black. However other colors are available, such as, dark green, which is used by China Post; red, which is used by Chinese municipal fire departments; and yellow, orange and blue, which are used by various businesses. Most models are pinstriped. For most of the Communist era, the price of a Flying Pigeon was 150 yuan, about two months' salary, with a waiting list that stretched into years. An apocryphal story tells that a farmer once offered to trade his entire crop to speed up delivery of his Pigeon. The Tianjin factory produces about 800,000 bikes yearly. PA-06 The PA-06 model is distinguished by the use of a double top-tube. It is also the only model also manufactured in the larger frame size (The PA-02 and PB-13 are only available in 22 inch frame size). This feature is often cited as being designed to carry pigs, but there is little factual basis for this claim. Double top-tubes are often used to stiffen larger frames in order to reduce "frame-whip" (lateral torsion). PB-13 The PB-13 is the ladies' version of