A most stylish bicycle ride
There has been a resurgence of late in the great British tradition of cycling. Nottingham has an especially close relationship with the sport, what with Raleigh just down the road and infamous cyclist Tom Simpson hailing from our fair city.
To celebrate the fine heritage of our country’s cycling pedigree, Nottingham Classic Bike Ride will be issuing forth again this Sunday, with a stylish Tour de Nottingham. . During the day, local historical points of interest will be taken in, including Albert Toft’s statue of Queen Victoria (1837-1901) which used to adorn the Market Square. Perhaps someone will come as the po-faced Queen and Empress herself, on a bicycle. Or, if inspired by Kenneth Branagh, dress up as Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
Complementing the classic theme, there will be a tea breaks at specially picked refreshment stops. Maniere des Bohemiens will be casting their elven, magical, musical spell at some point, enabling cyclists to dance those sore muscles away in the late September sun. If you fear for this weekend’s weather, then don’t worry, there is a plan B for riders that don’t wish to ride through the rain.
It is requested that riders wear their own style, not lycra or high-visibility clothing, because let’s face it, lycra is best friend to no one and this ride is all about style, not speed. The ride will be leisurely paced, to fit in with the idea of an afternoon jaunt. We are not all Bradley Wiggins, and besides, getting sweaty could ruin that Sunday best.
Speaking of Sunday best, there will be prizes for the best-dressed riders; best bicycles, and most-accomplished riders. We once saw a gent in Nottingham riding to work on a Penny-farthing, whilst wearing a flat-cap and waistcoat, so we imagine there will be fierce competition of a very ‘high’ standard, especially regarding the prize for best-dressed rider. If you do decide to purchase a Penny-farthing and need some practice, please check out Youtube for instructions on how to ride one. There will be bruises. And according to Wikipedia, in 1884, Thomas Stevens rode a penny-farthing from San Francisco to Boston. If you get on well with this ride, that’s your new challenge sorted for you.
The Nottingham Classic Bike Ride will commence at Victoria Embankment at 10am on Sunday 23rd September.
Nottingham Classic Bike Ride facebook page
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