NAME: Jillian Nintze
LOCATION: Pittsburgh, PA
OCCUPATION: Book Jockey

Where do you live and what’s it like riding in your city?
I live in Lawrenceville, one of the crazy neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. Exploring the city by bicycle is usually a great experience. I can ride to the river and toast beers to the motorboats, then try to visit a place THOR hasn’t yet but somehow their tag appears, it is wild.
On a bike you can find all kinds of hidden parts of the city that most people don’t even know exist. I have friends that have been living in the city a lot longer than me and have no clue about their town.
I believe there are a lot of people who ride bikes that know the city and all of its surprise spots and I think they treasure them as much as I do. At least I hope they do.
I could complain about cars, buses, potholes, and swinging doors but why bother?

What was your favorite city to ride in, and why?
I don’t really have a favorite city to ride. I think Denver, CO is fun, however I have an appreciation for the geography of Pittsburgh. Just when you think your lungs will burst from climbing some hill in the Heights, you reach a nice flat road or you go back downhill, which is equally satisfying.

Why do you love riding in the city?
I love riding in the city because it’s the only time I feel free. That sounds cheesy but it is true. On my bike I feel more connected to the city and all the people I see, even the ones who yell insults or try to squeeze me off the road with their cars. I believe deep down somewhere in their minds they are wishing they could be out there having an adventure too. How adventurous is it to sit in traffic playing “Mother may I” with the stoplights? Not very.
It’s just that having all these cars in the city doesn’t make any sense. Bikes make way more sense. That’s all.

Or just say whatever you want about riding in the city…
It doesn’t matter what kind of bike you ride as long as you ride. Just be sincere and enjoy it while you can.