the classic Flying Pigeon, using a step-through style frame, similar to a Dutch Omafiets. Company In 1998, the Flying Pigeon factory in central Tianjin was shut down and operations were relocated to an industrial zone on the city's periphery. It employs 600 workers who produce the bikes, using modern automated equipment. Flying Pigeon now makes 40 models of bicycles, most of which look like modern mountain or city bikes, in various colors. The frames are welded piecemeal; wheels are built on an assembly line, with spokes first laced to hubs, then threaded to rims. Workers hand-spray rough welds with coatings of enamel, and the bikes move on conveyors similar those of a dry cleaners. Despite declining domestic sales, the Flying Pigeon remains China's most popular bicycle, if only because much of the brand's old rolling stock is still in service. The government estimates that a half-billion bikes are in use throughout China, many handed down through generations. The Pigeon is a nostalgically-regarded artifact of China's post-revolutionary era. In 1994, the government named the bicycle a "national key trademark brand under protection", enshrining it similarly to national treasures. The company does not advertise its traditional bicycles such as the PA-02 as the brand is so infused in Chinese society and culture. There are, however, localized advertising campaigns. References External links Chinese and English. Cycle manufacturers of China Government-owned companies of China Manufacturing companies based in Tianjin Vehicle manufacturing companies established in 1950 1950 establishments in China Chinese brands