It's easy to take for granted how much of an influence the wheel has had on modern civilization–it's only been around for over 6,000 years. But apart from all of the utilitarian uses that man has found for its simple, but revolutionary design, there is one recreational invention that has incorporated the wheel most admirably: the bicycle. Bicycling is also my most favorite recreational activity, and it's one that I've had a long association with.
Like any child, I was introduced to self-propelled transportation at an early age by way of a tricycle. Seen above, it's name is, Thistle–and yes, that's a red bunny rabbit painted on the seat. I still find it hard to believe that a toy that I once used to race around the house with, day after day from morning 'til night, now does not reach past my knees. It's hard, rubber tires left black streaks across the floor from "burn-outs" (before I even knew what the term meant) as I accelerated to breakneck speeds down the hallway from room to room with my three-wheeled companion. Had I seen, The Wild One, I likely would have fastened a trophy to my handlebars in honour of Marlon Brando such was the way that I rode my trike.
If you are fortunate, the size of your bicycle will graduate along with you as you age. I can recall no less than four bicycles that I rode from adolescence to my teens. I rode a BSA, a few CCM's, and a 12-speed Supercycle from Canadian Tire. Up until I chose the 12-speed, all were carefully considered for their "ramping" capability. The local bicycle dealer and repairman was my mom's cousin so he was always very helpful in choosing the right bike for me and making the necessary repairs and tune-ups that I needed. I have always had an interest for bicycles, and I quickly learned how to take care of my own equipment early on: chain repairs, flats, shifter adjustments, and all the necessary bolt-tightening I learned how to do myself. Once I was in my twenties, I built bicycles from the frame up to save money and to apply the knowledge I already had. I still ride the three bikes that I rebuilt years ago, and they are just as loyal and reliable as the day they were built.
My Cannondale Killer V900 has had several upgrades over the years and it's light, aluminum frame was a popular choice with riders before aluminum frames hit the mainstream. This is my favourite trail bike and it's seen trails all around Winnipeg, Grand Beach, Riding Mountain, Birds Hill, Hecla, the Epinette Creek trail, and many more. I've since retired my Bonelli Nakiska to the basement for the most part and attached it to a trainer. On rainy days and in the winter, this is the best way I've found to stay in shape and still enjoy one of my favorite past-times. This bike has also seen lot of trail-riding and many kilometres up and down Wellington Crescent to Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg–a trip best made on a Sunday when the road is closed to vehicular traffic.
My most recent acquisition I rescued from a storage shed out at my family's farm in Saskatchewan. I don't know for sure the year it was made, but I would guess it's around 40 years old. It's steel rims, frame, and fenders (well, it was all made from steel back then) make it heavy to ride and there are no quick take-offs. One gear is all you get, but this CCM tracks smooth and is a joy to ride. I've lost count how many heads turn when I pop onto this bike for a quick ride to the grocery store to grab a grocery item or two. Only in the past few years has chrome made a come-back on what retailers are selling as "classic bikes". I have to admit my bike is far from original though. The frame used to be painted gold, but rust had taken hold in many areas and it seriously needed a facelift. Now, my antique "blackie" catches the eyes of many passers-by when they see this bike coming down the road. The seat is real comfy too – hard to find these days.
It's hard to know exactly what the future may hold for the bicycle. It's had such a wide and rich history up to this point. There's some pretty radical designs and ideas out there, but even in our technologically advanced age I don't see the bicycle disappearing any time soon. A few years ago, I can recall a radio documentary piece about bicycles that argued that for its size, weight, speed, and efficiency, the bicycle is possibly the most environmentally sound form of transportation ever constructed.
One thing is for sure; it's a lot of fun and beats walking.
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