!VAR HAGENDOORN

Dutch Bike Renaissance

The Fashion and Style section of The New York Times of April 15, 2009 features an article on the Dutch bike, asking the all important question whether the arrival of Dutch bicycles in New York can free men to pedal to work in a Gucci suit.

It comes with an interactive feature explaining how the upright seat, the wider and curved handle bars, the fenders and chain guards enable the person riding the bike to sit upright and wear nice clothes.

It proves that quite often it is the ordinary that is most extraordinary to foreigners. Actually the commentary is accurate. I know many bankers, lawyers, traders and academics who cycle to work in a suit, both men and women.

Oddly I don't have a bike myself. I used to have two, which I sold when I moved to London. Most of the time I just walk. But I do consider getting one again for longer distances.

Dutch bicycle design has been going through something of a renaissance in recent years. These days transport and cargo bikes, some of which are custom made, are all the rage. It started out in the big cities, Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, but today no self-respecting parent dares to be seen without one. Children demand to be brought to school inside a cargo bike. Cars are so 2007.

If you're looking to buy a Dutch bike beware to get one with the right frame height. Front and rear drum brakes as opposed to a back-pedal brake is a matter of personal preference. A multi-speed internally geared hub might come in useful when climbing a slight incline. The advantage of the most basic model is less parts = less maintenance.

If you're thinking of getting yourself a cargo bike, beware that when it's full the two wheel models are more difficult to balance when you're standing still.

And always carry a plastic bag with you to cover your saddle in case of a shower.