I Love Riding in the City
NAME: William Kern
LOCATION: Austin, TX
OCCUPATION: Veterinary Technician
Where do you live and what’s it like riding in your city?
I live in Austin Texas now. Riding here is like living in a giant playground for adults sometimes. There are so many festivals, celebrations, sports and shows that it really makes every day fun. I truly am surprised almost every day by some unexpected site or event.
What was your favorite city to ride in, and why?
I rode in Dallas as a teen and remember it fondly. Boston was great because it seemed impossible to get around by car, but a bike is a blast and I love that dirty water, what!
Why do you love riding in the city?
Embracing this planet and its growth is a very healthy thing for me. Watching my skyline change is like a sport for me. I’ve spent a lot of time in the country but this city is where I belong. It’s mine.
Or just say whatever you want about riding in the city…
Oh yeah, there are lots of cool hills to bomb and lots of cool rides and lots of cool trails and a bike shop on every corner and, and...good efin’ music and food.
NAME: Shane Glassey
LOCATION: Christchurch, New Zealand
OCCUPATION: Aircraft Engineer
Where do you live and what’s it like riding in your city?
I live outside Christchurch and commute to work as often as I can which is usually at least 2 times a week. My commute is around 30km each way and varies from main road traffic to secluded rural roads. Summers are great and winters suck in New Zealand, no snow but the frost and winter southerly storms make winter a challenge.
What was your favorite city to ride in, and why?
My favorite city to ride in is Toulouse in France, The city is so well set up for cycling and the car drivers the most accepting I have ever seen. Toulouse has a Velib system like Paris, which is just fantastic. Brisbane in Australia comes a close second for climate and also the great number of off-road cycle paths I found when I was there.
Or just say whatever you want about riding in the city…
I like to point out to all my non-cycling friends and work mates that it’s not really that hard to cycle to work or to use your bike rather than the car. You do have to show a bit of commitment but first of all you just have to learn to make a conscious thought every time you go for the car keys—think, “Can I use my bike for this trip?” If the answer is “yes” then do it. Pretty soon you don’t have to think about it and you just naturally go for the bike. |
