-^-for posterity-^-

i took a bicycle out today and it was quite an experience. it was a small shiny bike with large, curving handlebars. the frame was blue and rusted. the wheels were covered with old pieces of metal that served as mud flaps. a large basket hung loosely from the front. the seat was wide and low and my lanky legs stretched up awkwardly. people stared.

i rode around town for about an hour enjoying the flow of the traffic and the wind blowing against me. riding fast wasn’t an option and i ambled along. my body was curved around the bike and my arms bent around my legs as they rose and fell.

people stared for a number of reasons. having a tall blonde haired young man riding around on a bicycle was strange. also, because the bicycle was too small, i was forced to ride it oddly. the seat was too low and the pedals were under me completely. i rode like a catcher crouching behind home plate. here, people ride bicycles with perfect posture. their backs are straight and their chins are up. their faces are stone and their legs move rhythmically. they ride on the right as traffic mauls by. turning involves a lot of anticipation and patience. one must slowly move through traffic and find the left lane. other motorbikes and cars will avoid you.

i never reached my destination because i didn’t have one. after i felt thoroughly stared at, i headed home. not much of a story but it provided me with a few nice chuckles.