Your bike can say a lot about you

The notion that cars reveal a lot about their owners is probably a widely established one, given that they are considered items of luxury in the first place, not necessity.

On the other hand, few would agree that bicycles too, can reflect the rider’s personality and beliefs, even for those who claim themselves to be strictly utilitarian. Practically everything one owns/uses says more about the owner than anything else, and bicycles are no exception to this rule.

If anything, they have evolved into a form of accessory, especially in the context of college campuses where people strive to be different in whatever ways they can.

‘vintage’ 10-speed road bike

Chiefly a tribute to the 80s and 90s, these bikes go pretty damn well with faded plain tees, capris, Tevas and Jansports.

Riders of this style are responsible ambassadors of Mother Earth who tend to stay away from all motorized transport, and are strong advocates of the local recycling program.

It is also noteworthy that the owners of these bikes probably frequent Goodwill and live in a co-op. Riding between the lines of nostalgia and eco-consciousness, 10-speeds continue to define the college cycling experience.

Classic store-brand hybrid bike

What sets them apart definitely has to be the cheesy stickers that scream ‘I don’t give a fuck.’

I contend this is the real utilitarian’s bike. To put it more aptly, the owner probably went to a department store and bought the mean machine along with bedsheets and toilet paper.

Oversized tees, oversized jeans, running shoes and store-brand backpacks are almost mandatory for riders of these bikes. Talk to them about cycling and they would urge you to purchase a helmet as well.

The mighty cruiser

Riders of this style probably hate those from the previous two categories, because they’re way too cool.

The word ‘cruiser’ aligns with ‘sunglasses’ and ‘floral print short sleeve shirts.’ What about the bag? The owner would tell you bags ruin the style. Besides, they’re so ‘chill’ that they don’t even have to carry books around or go to class.

(Although they’d probably be late to class every time riding a cruiser.)

The new-age fixie without brakes

There is another type of rider who likes to ‘cruise’, but their idea of cruising involves a lot more adrenaline.

These are ridden by the dare-devils who quite literally, live life in the fast lane. Half-fingered gloves, sports tees, dri-fit shorts and Timbuk2s are all part of the package.

These adrenaline junkies believe in taking short cuts, and are seen as the greatest menace to drivers and pedestrians alike. They can also get competitive if you happen to cycle next to them and might give you the finger if you get in their way.

Carbon bikes and streamlined helmets

There is another group who claims they are the ultimate speed devils – the road racers. Defined by futuristic all-carbon bikes, streamlined helmets, Oakleys and skin tight bodysuits, riders of this type are all about overcoming the human physical limit.

Cycling is not only a way of life, but a religion, in which Merckx, Armstrong and the likes are worshipped. Getting from point A to point B transcends beyond a simple commute in the eyes of road racers.

Timing is of essence here; even a trip to the corner store is comparable to the Tour de France. And yes, each one of their bikes probably costs more than your car.

Stunt or BMX bikes

These bad-boys lie within the more professional category of things. Personally, I think BMX-riding is a dying art, which explains why you don’t see riders of this sort on a daily basis especially on campuses.

Perhaps school administrations have a part to play in banning stunt biking on campus property.

It also doesn’t help that most people perceive BMX-ers as rebels or punks clad in skinny jeans. BMX are a thing of the 80s, but why did it not back a come back?

Because it takes skill and practice to master, and nobody nowadays has time for that anymore; people would rather go catch Pokémon/ride hover boards, but that’s another topic altogether.

With a wide variety of bikes, you also find a wide variety of people. From the down-to-earth commuters to the sophisticated racing models, each bicycle has something to say about its owner.

With a more inquisitive mind and observing eyes, one would be able to discern beyond the steel frames and rubber tires, to see what the biker wants to say to others.