CITY BIKES AND WHY WE CHOOSE THEM

 

Those of us who live in a busy city often choose to cycle rather than drive, walk or take public transit as it’s usually the most efficient way of getting around. Plus it can be a lot of fun and a great way to explore places you would have never gone otherwise. That’s definitely that case here in Toronto and even more so now with street closures for construction, patio expansions and the overall feeling of not wanting to be on a streetcar during a pandemic. These city bikes are not the typical rigged up touring bike we usually write about or anything too fancy or expensive. They are simply city bikes, your daily ride. It might be rusty in places or have a weird clicking sound sometimes but it gets you around and you love it! The relationship with these bikes are similar to a friendship, a dependable old pal you can trust. I asked some of my friends about their city bikes, why they chose them and what makes their bike perfect for them.

ROCHELLE AKA “ROCKY”

BIKE: OPUS ORPHEO 5

“I love this bike because I feel like it really reflects my personality. My basket and bungee are key for carrying around anything I need while I’m out for the day. I go for long rides and feel completely free and ready for hours of fun!”

PLACIDO

BIKE: MEC DESIRE

“Ah my bike, Scarlet I call her, she has always been my loyal steed but especially during this summer of Covid where I just don’t want to use Uber or public Transit. Being off work my bike has taken me far and wide across the city discovering parks and beaches I never knew existed. I’ve been having the best summer I can recall in years and that’s in large part due to my love, Scarlet.”

KELLY

BIKE: VINTAGE RALEIGH CRUISER

“My Mum and Step-Dad found it for sale on the side of a dirt road. They knew I had been looking for a little city ripper. I opted to keep the back fender that my step-dad fashioned out of a milk jug. I love things that are just a little bit shitty.”

CARLEY

BIKE: NORCO HEART

“We’ve been through many adventures together, a few spills resulting in bumps, bruises and scars, but I love this bike endlessly. It’s a breeze to ride, yet challenging at just the right time. I was overwhelmed in the bike store, but this bike fit my budget, lifestyle and in the end I was just drawn to it. The cherry on top, is my gold bell that my best friend gave me for my birthday – I get compliments on it all the time.”

NICHOLAS AKA NICO

BIKE: STRIPPED DOWN LINUS SINGLE SPEED CRUISER

“My bike is simple, reliable and easy to maintain. It gets me around from A to B and it can be pretty fun to ride too.”

MARK

BIKE: GARNEAU TUXEDO

“Bike commuting has always been the top way I get around Toronto since moving here 10 years ago. I love that I can jump on and go. I chose my Garneau as the perfect all-rounder – it’s great to zip around downtown but I can also take it out on the bike trails for a day. Taking my bike is always the top choice above cabs or public transport! I really can’t imagine life in the city without a bike.“