Did you know the month of May is National Bike Month? It may be just about over, but it’s never too late to get your bicycle on, especially since the season of riding weather has only just begun.
For any of our modified friends out there who are eco-conscious, biking is a great way to get around during the summer months. By laying off the automobile travel, you can not only reduce your own carbon footprint, but also help improve the general air quality of your city, and the planet. Plus, with the advent of bike racks in most urban areas, and simple and inexpensive locks and coils, you’ll never have to worry about where to park.
You might think of bicycling as tedious or boring, but nothing could be farther from the truth. Just ask the riders of the world’s most famous bike race, the Tour de France. Plus, bike parts can be recycled into art, household items, and just about anything else you put your mind to. Even jewelry and accessories made from bicycle gears and chains have become popular. Bikes and riding have also appeared as scenes in over 100 music videos including Katy Perry’s “Hot N Cold,” Robin Thicke’s “When I Get You Alone,” and Paramore’s “Still into You.”
Here’s a little info about the history of one of our favorite pastimes:
The predecessors to the bicycle we know and love were invented in the early 1800s, with several innovations leading to the classic “high wheeler” and traditional ladies tricycle by the latter half of the century. In fact, the first transcontinental bike trip occurred in 1884, and was ridden by solo cyclist Thomas Stevens. It took over 12 full weeks to complete.
Fun Fact: Bicycle Brand Playing Cards are the highest selling and most recognizable playing cards in the United States, and were first introduced in 1885, featuring bike and cyclist-centric patterns.
