August 18, 2024
Distance: 65.36, Total: 5,599 miles
After a delicious brekkie at Cafe Velo in Nevers, surrounded by the most delightful collection of cycling swag, we set off on another glorious day of flat, paved, safe bike paths and mild weather. But unlike yesterday, when we managed to have three fantastic meals, today, we learned that France shuts down completely on Sunday afternoons. I managed to nab some sandwiches for dinner just as a bakery was closing.
Instead of selling me food, it seems that all the French folks in the Loire Valley over the age of 5 were out on their bikes, plying the paths along the canal that runs parallel to the Loire. Most beguiling to me is seeing entire famliles riding together, including the tiny tykes. In the Bay Area, when I see a child on a bike, I steer clear while calling out to any fellow riders, "Child missile up!" That's because Bay Area children routinely try to kill me with their bikes.
But here, entire famlies ride together and ride well. Even the kindergarteners know how to hold their line and pace while obeying traffic laws. 80% of adult riders in the Bay Area can't do this.
The revolution will not be motorized. It will be an army of sweet French kids on their bicycles.
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