Beijing Bicycling

Despite the fact that calling things “extreme” hasn’t been cool since 2002 (at the very latest), biking in Beijing is fucking xtreeme.

Basically, it requires the perfect balance between precision pathfinding and complete reckless abandon. Since last summer, I think I’ve been addicted. I realized this when I made the switch to my current bike from a newer-style one, with the intention of making things more exciting. The ‘new’ ride, a Flying Pigeon, is harder to balance and higher off the ground. Oh, also, the handlebars are crooked and the seat spins. Looks pretty sweet though.

Here are some strategies I’ve followed :

• Don’t stop. Ever. Keep going, even though the city’s wide fulu (bike lanes) are also meant to be used by cars and crowds of pedestrians.
• Find that gap (between the aforementioned cars, bikes, and pedestrians) and get in there!
• Keep your hands on the brakes while pedaling full speed. You’re more likely to avoid getting crushed by an electric bus that way. (You learn a new thing every day)
• The odd bell-ring can get the job done, but mute it once the message is conveyed. No one wants to look like a pussy.
• When crossing the street, it’s strength in numbers. Green light? Red light? No light? Find a stubborn lady on a moped and use her to block for you.

Oh… in Beijing, people don’t usually lock their bikes to anything. They just block the back and/or front wheel with a lock, and leave it.

Here’s what the bike I’m using looks like: (Naturally, they’re all the rage in New York, right?)