The humble push bike

If you have read the blog on crazy one way streets, you will know that 2/3 of all trips in Shanghai are done by a bicycle or scooter, or something in between. So this blog is a dedication to; the humble pushy, the scooter and the crazy people that risk their lives every day on the streets of Shanghai.

Now, why is he fixated by the bicycle all of a sudden, you ask?

Let me share with you some interesting thoughts and observations to justify my indulgence of your time.

• the taxi drivers and car drivers are more crazy than the bicycle riders, so going on the road is risking life and limb.
• the riders have a healthy disregard for the road rules making it even more exciting to the observer
• the bikes don't come with helmets (nor do the riders) and probably no brakes
• they carry the family, the pets and the shopping on them
• they are a commercial form of transport for more than couriers
• this is a big city, with smog and dust, so it's pretty gritty out there
• every day you see something interesting on a bike as it scoots past you.
• anyone that rides on the foot path and tries to run me down on a push bike needs some credit for courage (or stupidity)

So rather than prattle on any more. Please enjoy these pictures. Note, that if you click on them you will get a full size version. Enjoy.

To all my cycling friends, this is one place lycra, kevlar, computers, cleats etc are not trendy or neccessary. All you need is a $40 bike and a gaurdian angel.