If it isn’t obvious by now, my time in the Netherlands had a profound impact on me. NL opened my eyes to the beauty of a world where bicycles are part of the world we live in and embedded in our society.

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I only recently uncovered my passion for bicycles, learning to ride on a Brompton in 2023. I took my first cycle day trip in Ecuador, where I cycled La Ruta de las Cascadas – not ending my trip at Pailón del Diablo, but taking the entire route to Puyo and back (which I highly recommend).

When I returned to the States I immediately made my way to a nonprofit bicycle shop in Phoenix, where good fortune was waiting for me in the form of a vintage 1957 Schwinn Chicago. I was surprised to find a bicycle so quickly, because I knew I wanted a Schwinn and I needed a tiny frame. As soon as the volunteers saw me walk in they enthusiastically pulled down the shiny red bike. Shonda Schwinn is now my primary mode of transportation, and she brings me so much joy!

There are many countries that build their infrastructure with bicycles in mind. These countries know the significant role bicycles play in society – increased urban mobility and road safety, cleaner environments, and positive impacts on personal health and wellbeing, translating to overall positive community growth. Whether you’re riding for leisure, sport, or to get around, there is a very specific kind of freedom and joy that accompanies riding a bicycle.

The purpose of I Believe in Bicycles is to share information, resources, and an overall zeal for bicycles from the perspective of a novice cyclist, to bring us all together to learn, share, and enjoy life on our bikes!