Blog Posts by Subject: Cycling

Bicycles were first introduced in 19th century Europe and by now number approximately one billion worldwide, providing the principal means of transportation in many regions. In Bicycle: The History, David Herlihy noted the passions the introduction of bicycle aroused. Mark Twain (1835-1910) supposedly wrote: “Get a bicycle. You will not regret it—if you live.”

via flickr, macz_outCycling is not only great for your health; it’s better for the environment and less expensive than other forms of travel. Currently the city is working toward making NYC more friendly to cyclists and as a library we're trying to make information regarding cycling a little easier to find.

So, here are some helpful resources regarding cycling programs, biking clubs, books, blogs, and other practical guides. At the end of this post you’ll also find a list of library locations equipped with bike racks!

The

It was a plan to get out early and it was a plan I kept to. I carried my bike atop my shoulder down my stoop and I was on the streets of Brooklyn by 9:00 AM. The sun was shining; the air was fresh and sweet. The hot sun had not yet evaporated away the luscious morning air. It was a perfect temperature out. The light shimmered as it bounced off the buildings. I made my way through the quiet of Brooklyn, one neighborhood melding into another by way of asphalt ribbons.

A real fashion breakthrough occurs in the late nineteenth century with the notion of specific costumes for sports. As early as 1888, advertisements show models of “bicycle-gowns.” This would lead to the adoption of bloomers and divided, or bifurcated, skirts. Modesty and seemliness were deplored in vain. Why, that pernicious bicycle would even bring about a man and woman riding in tandem! How tame does costume of this era seem today when compared to our lycra and spandex sports outfits. Yet the revolutionary nature of this small first step toward sports 

Psst! Have you heard? May is Bike Month in New York City! There are too many activities to report in this blog, but as a teaser, here are a few in Northern Manhattan: Learn to Ride-Kids Saturday, May 9, 2009 10 am-12 noon Riverside Park Promenade between 83rd and 86th Learn to