Biking Culture

So Madison is well known for many things: the Terrace, Badger football, State Street, construction...the list could go on.  What I am particularly interested in reflecting on today is its established biking culture.  That's right, the traditional two-wheeled mode of transportation for so many students on the UW campus.  Now don't get me wrong-I know this is not unique to the UW.  However, after being here at the University of Michigan for nearly a month now, I have picked up on some seemingly subtle differences between this campus and my first love, Madison.  Waiting nearly half an hour for a bus this evening (that apparently stops running every 9-12 minutes after 6pm...news to me) further assisted in my observation of these slightly irritating differences.

First, most "bikers" in Ann Arbor seem to systematically neglect the maintenance of their rides.  Now I'm not talking about a little rust on the chain or a few scratches on the frame-I'm referring to those with severely flat back tires.  Not low, flat.  This has got to make biking around an extremely laborious and uncomfortable experience.  Do they just not notice?  Or not care...

Second, many riders seem to be content with leaving their bike seats unadjusted (perhaps at the height suitable for a younger brother or sister), causing knees to reach handlebars in an awkward display of athletic activity.  Even those riding vintage road bikes (*sigh) seem to feel the need to sit in such a position and waste all potential to absolutely rock out.  Madisonians, you know what I'm talking about.

Third, the U-M has wholeheartedly welcomed a culture in which biking on sidewalks is not only accepted-it is reinforced by all classes and academic programs!  To see a biker on the road here is like seeing Bucky in the Big House.  As I waited for my bus earlier this evening and watched several bikers awkwardly weave through crowds on the Central Campus sidewalks, I flashed back to my first experience as a young biker in Madison.  I wasn't peddling amidst the walkers for 30 seconds before an upperclassman bellowed "GET OFF THE SIDEWALK" as I rolled past.  Terrified, I bolted onto the street, vowing never to be seen again biking along the pedestrian path.  

Graduate school has challenged me to accept new norms, such as switching to three-hour classes and working at a faster pace.  Biking on sidewalks, however, is one norm I refuse to accept.  

I may be learning among the blue and maize but I still have my dignity.