Inspired by the excitement and grandeur of medieval France, with its chivalric tournaments, where knights in shining armor clashed in jousts to prove their valor and skill, comes bicycle jousting. Instead of charging horses, these knights are riding… bicycles. This quirky concept of bicycle jousting blends traditional chivalric competitions with the innovative spirit of the early days of cycling. A Humorous Nod to the Past In the late 19th century, as bicycles became more popular, the French nobility began to experiment with new ways to use these two-wheeled wonders. Bicycle jousting emerged ..read more

The humble bicycle played a significant and important role during one of the darkest periods in British history. The London Blitz was a major chapter in the history of World War II, characterized by the sustained bombing campaign carried out by Nazi Germany against Britain. The term “Blitz” comes from the German word “Blitzkrieg,” meaning “lightning war,” and it aptly describes the intense, rapid bombings that took place. The Reason Behind the Blitz The Blitz began on September 7, 1940, and continued until May 11, 1941. During this period, London was bombed for 56 out of the first 57 days and ..read more

At the turn of the 20th century, Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, found itself at the heart of a cultural shift that would weave its way through the city’s cultural and architectural identity. This shift didn’t come from the usual sports or entertainment celebrities but rather from Denmark’s own royal family. Thanks to royal backing, cycling, once a modest means of getting around, was transformed into a symbol of elegance and accessibility. Cycling Royal Influencers The Danish royals started embracing bicycles back when the world was just stepping into modern times. It was none other than figur ..read more

In the late 19th century, Japan witnessed a fascinating cultural evolution with the introduction of the bicycle. Initially met with curiosity and skepticism, bicycles represented not just a new mode of transportation but a significant challenge to traditional ways of moving around and living. Even the samurai, Japan’s warrior class known for their adherence to age-old customs and honor, found themselves caught up in this two-wheeled revolution. This story of bicycles in Japan is a perfect example of how technology can influence culture and underscore the importance of adapting to change. A Cu ..read more

In the late 19th century, a time marked by rigid social norms and restrictive expectations for women, a simple invention—the bicycle—became an unexpected symbol of freedom and change. The women’s suffrage movement, which fought tirelessly for women’s rights to vote and have equal standing in society, found an unlikely ally in this new mode of transportation. The bicycle not only challenged the status quo but also empowered women in ways that were both practical and profound. Breaking Away from Victorian Restrictions During Victorian times, women were expected to wear heavy, cumbersome dresses ..read more

During the dark days of World War I, as soldiers faced the horrors of battle with constant mud, blood, and the roar of artillery, an eerie story began to spread. It was about a mysterious figure known as the phantom cyclist. Soldiers from both sides of the war said they saw this ghost-like rider moving silently through the devastated no-man’s land—the dangerous area between the opposing trenches. Shrouded in mist and surrounded by the wreckage of war, the phantom cyclist was said to carry messages on his back, gliding through the wasteland where nobody else dared to go. The true origin of thi ..read more

Back on a breezy day in June 1899, Charles Murphy, also known as “Mile-a-Minute Murphy,” set out to do something wild. He was going to race against a Long Island Railroad train over a mile-long stretch to see if he could finish in under a minute, The New York Times reported on its cover at the time. This wasn’t just for fun; it was a serious challenge and a significant moment in transportation history. It happened during a time when cars were just starting to become a thing, and it captured everyone’s attention across the nation. The Gilded Age and the Bicycle Craze The late 1800s were an exc ..read more

When it comes to folding bikes, there are no brands quite so highly regarded as the lovable British brand Brompton.  You might not own one yet, but unless you’ve lived under a rock, you’ve definitely seen one.  Their popularity has skyrocketed, and they can be spotted everywhere, from Greenwich all the way to the South Pole.  But beyond their infamy, there’s more to Brompton and their bikes than meets the eye. Here are the six most interesting facts about Brompton that only the most dedicated aficionados know. Image Credit: Brompton/Facebook1. Their Bikes are Still Made In The ..read more

Folding bikes have gained significant traction in recent years. Offering commuters and urban dwellers a convenient, space-saving bicycle, they’ve become a mode of transport in their own right. Despite their practicality and efficiency, some common misconceptions surround the compact two-wheelers. We debunk some myths and misunderstandings about folding bikes. 1. “They’re Only For Commuting” While we often associate folding bikes with urban commuters, politicians, and middle managers, their versatility extends far beyond the daily grind. Yes, their small footprint and short wheelbase mean they ..read more

In the evolving world of electric bikes (e-bikes), selecting the perfect tire type is crucial for optimizing your riding experience. Whether you’re navigating through rugged terrain or cruising down city streets, the choice between fat tires and slim tires can significantly influence your e-bike’s performance, comfort, and safety. So how to choose between the two types of tires that suits you? Don’t worry, I’ll break down the differences between the two for you in this article so you can make an informed decision between fat and skinny tires for your e-bike. Understanding the Basics of E-bike ..read more