Efficient Cycling by John Forester, p. 25 (introduction)
Cycling is ...
Once you can ride a bike comfortably and efficiently without worrying about traffic, operating a machine you trust, you're ready to experience all the joys of cycling: the pleasure spot the next curve, smell the flowers lining the road and hear the birds sing, to feel with nature. Cycling is the skill and the thrill of following a steep descent, winding between towering redwoods, along a sparkling stream. Cycling is seen orchards fruit and dairy farming communities, cabins by the roadside, reed-lined dams and village squares. Cycling is surprised to see gardens and planters under the windows of neighboring houses that had not spotted before. Cycling is reaching the top of a mountain pass and swept great distances by sight, knowing that I expect many miles of easy descent before reaching the plains. Cycling is a warm tent or hotel across the world, and the glorious dawn of a new day and new miles to go. Cycling is shopping without the hassle of having to find parking or waiting for the bus. Cycling is the freedom to do without a car or find someone you can keep in your car to your destination. Cycling is also hard work to move forward in a storm of wind and rain that throws water on your face and it forces you to hold the handle with such force that the fingers start to hurt. But in addition, cycling is the camaraderie of the road, the joy of traveling together through the spring of the world, and the constancy of comrades coming home as the sun descends to hide. Finally, cycling is telling travel stories and adventures, successes and disasters in distant places and different people, with club comrades gathered around tables laden with enough food to feed the hungry.
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