Riding a bike while holding another. Everyday in Amsterdam there is someone performing this skillful feat with ease. But is there more than meets the eye?
I couldn’t help but be enamoured by this practical approach to retrieving and delivering bikes. Why waste time and money taking public transportation or a car? If one is capable, why not just ride along with the bike?
When I showed one of my photos to a longtime Amsterdam resident, he vehemently proclaimed “Fietsendief!” The translation to English is bicycle thief!
Could I have been wrong? Are these not the gallant efforts of Amsterdammers once again exhibiting Dutch practicality? Have I been admiring the deeds of riff-raff engaged in the lowest form of thievery?
Unfortunately my Dutch sources have proven to be unreliable. Likely as a result of my inability to read a poker face.
For the time being, I will give these supposed “bike thieves” the benefit of the doubt, and refrain from the suggestion that I should stop them by jamming something hard in between their spokes.
I can’t help but think that steering by holding the bike by it’s handle is asking for trouble. Grab the bike in the center is the way to go I would think.
I would agree. The photo of the couple were struggling with the bike. He was managing but didn’t make it look easy. I imagine problems would occur when attempting to turn or going around a bend.