Touring on a three speed
There is a category of bicyclists that is growing in numbers. They have older bikes, probably bought used and primarily used for transportation. Some of these get converted to a fixed gear but none the less are used to go from a place of residence to a place of business. This emerging category of people on bikes using it for transportation is the group I belong to and advocate for. This is what Bikejax.org stands for.
To promote the notion that you don't need a 'fancy' bike to start commuting, Ryan Van Duzer from Wonderbikes, the bicycle advocacy group of New Belgium Brewery, took off on a three speed bike and toured across several states.
This is are his words after completing the tour:
“I never thought in a million years that my cruise across America would be as amazing as it was. Most people thought that the idea of riding a heavy three speed sounded very uncomfortable…and in fact it was. But it’s not the moments on the bike I remember most about this journey. It was the people I met along the way who made this experience so magical. Everywhere I pedaled I met friendly, warm-hearted Americans. From café owners in the deserts of Arizona to coal miners in West Virginia, it seemed that everywhere I turned, someone was there to make my day a little brighter. And to all the Wonderbikers across this great land, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to all of you who joined me for a days ride or took in and fed a stinky Duzer. This may have been a solo mission across the country but I never felt alone with so many people cheering me on.
And what did I accomplish other than get a very sore behind? Well, the goal was pretty simple, to inspire people to ride their bikes and raise money for Community Cycles in Boulder Colorado. I may not have motivated the entire country to ditch their cars but I definitely got some people to think twice about driving. I got countless emails from strangers who promised me that they’ll ride more often, even my mom! And it looks like we’ll raise about $4,500 for Community Cycles and their youth after school program. A big high five to all who donated to this great cause! If we can inspire the little ones now, we’ll create a culture of cycling that will last a lifetime.
What now? I’m gonna rest my body for a little while, and probably drink some cold Fat Tires until I dream up a new adventure. Until then I hope you all keep on riding your beautiful bicycles and ringing your bells.”
