Spring has arrived in the melting north. That means bicycles and the official launch of bicycle season. We usually have bicycles around all winter but with so much snow this winter only the truly hardy or foolish were on their bicycles.
The old bikes are the best. When I was in Holland far too long ago I expected to see shiny bicycles in great repair. Just the opposite. Never seen so many beat up bicycles with bits dragging along behind. Speed did not seem to be a desired outcome of a bicycle ride. They meandered usually carrying some flowers which the Dutch can't do without. The problem in Holland is that if you have a nice bike it will be stolen so everyone rides these beat up things.
I hate all the gear but I hate that about all sports. I have a lovely old Dutch bike that is too heavy to go uphill so if I need to navigate some hills I take my trusty little CCM 3 speed. Old Dutch has saddlebags (purchased in Holland and long since faded from their jaunty green plaid) and my CCM has a lovely wire basket that sits on the back fender.
My favourite cyclists are those who maintain their individual style throwing caution to the wind, which means no helmets, gloves or bicycle shorts. Those that manage to look great and wear a helmet receive extra points.
Look for photos of dapper cyclists in the coming months. Look out, I'm packing my camera ....
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2 comments:
http://copenhagengirlsonbikes.blogspot.com/
Not properly bicyclists of l'age moyen, but some good links and definitely encouraging.
Pedestrian rant -What can we do about sidewalk bicyclists? - should there be a minimum age to secure this right, say 79+. I confess sympathy for the elderly bicyclists especially when they have groceries and sometimes a grandchild.
Yes, we need pictures of l'age moyen au velo. Cycling around will keep us healthy and away from having to engage in those marine marathons.
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