Putting aside their other, ahem...differences...Bush and Obama ride different kinds of bikes. Bush rides a Mountain Bike, mostly around his own property. To emulate him you need property of your own or proximity to a large park. This photo of Obama, taken just a few months ago, shows him on a "city" bike, riding in traffic. To emulate him, you only need the courage to ride in any town or city. The rear fender indicates that he's ready for wet conditions. So you could say he understands what those of us who ride in streets daily are up against: arrogant drivers, weather, car-centric roads and an unsympathetic public. The response to Obama's bike ride from US magazine speaks volumes: they attacked Obama's fashion statement. That's all they got out of this photo! I really liked his casual attire: the easier it is for us to ride, the more we will do so.
Alan, over at Ecovelo, has a thread on some promising bike legislation that could take shape in an Obama administration.
I have the impression that this 'fender' actually is a trailer bike for kids. Could it be?
ReplyDeleteYou know,it could be just that. How cool that he would think of that too.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know what kind of bike he's riding?
I think you're right - it looks like a trailer.
ReplyDeleteThe bike is generic Trek "hybrid" of some sort. Somebody needs to help out our new leader with a bike overhaul and fitting session. I see a nearly flat tire and a seat that's too low. He could use some fenders and a chain guard as well... :-)
Go for it Alan! He might be receptive to your suggestions because it would both help him relax with a sport we already knows he enjoys and it would set a good example.
ReplyDeleteAnd the trailer could mean he's into biking with his little kids in tow.
and as far as fashion goes, I like the idea of riding in regular clothing, but for the sake of safety, a bright yellow or orange shirt/jacket would be a good addition to our precious president's outfit. He's got to take good care of himself now, for all of us!
ReplyDeleteWhat are the chances that the car you see behind him isn't Secret Service? You really think they let him go out on his own in traffic?
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