Kim grew up in Amsterdam. Stopped riding a bike at 18. For 15 years she walked, used taxis, public transportation, her own car, etc, but mostly taxis. Since we met, it was obvious to her I had sort of this thing going with 2 wheelers. She felt she didn’t need a bike, it was too much hassle, she didn’t, and still doesn’t like the idea of riding in the rain and after all, it would get stolen anyway. Still, she did sort of, kind of enjoy riding along on my bike, at first on the frame between me and my handlebars, later on the back after I installed a rack (I’m such a poet).
Last week she called me, giddy as a teenager ready for her prom, breaking the news she had bought a bike. I had offered to help her find a good bike after my return from Paris, but she just got this thing over her when she passed her neighborhood bike shop. “Now, I need it now, who cares if I get a bad deal, I’ll sort it out.” She said one bike stood out in the stack, all beautiful.
Good, I thought, as she had to hurry again, hanging up, leaving me oblivious to what kind of bike it was. Oh well, I reckoned it was an opoe fiets with a nice color or something.
Boy, was I in for a surprise tonight. She had found a perfect second hand Johnny Loco City Cruiser for just 150 Euros, including service and new parts. I didn’t push her in any way, I had suggested she could try it out with an old beater, and this is what she comes home with? For that price? Incredible. Best part: after using it for one week she’s fallen completely for it, she’s feeling it, the vibes, the ride, the comfortable posture, sense of freedom, relaxation.
But, she did mention one problem she encountered riding her bike…she constantly arrives at appointments way too early. :-p
One unexpected but valuable Cycle Chic addition to the Slow Bicycle Movement, I’d say.
PS: I’ve got a video of tonight’s ride lined up and will post it this Sunday.
‘Meet Kim, Cycle Chic Newbie’, and go to Amsterdamize Bicycle TV to watch this and every other video posted on Amsterdamize, for your viewing pleasure!
WHAT TO DO NOW?