Friday, March 04, 2005

Typical Dutch parent's bike

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This is a picture of a typical Dutch parent's bike for three. You can see that there is a child seat on the back and another one on the front behind the handlebars. When the bike only has one child seat it is always the one at the handlebars. I'm not sure why this is? Maybe it distributes the weight better and helps with balance? Most bikes with the front child seat have a clear plastic windscreen that shields the child from direct air. There is usually a basket over the front wheel, where the belongings and packages are kept. We have also seen dogs riding in these front compartments.

It is very common to see men and women in business attire riding their bikes to work. Even the elderly use their bikes as their major mode of transportation. As you walk up and down the streets you will see bikes locked to every possible railing, post, pole, or even mailbox!

Bicycles have the right-of-way on all roads. I have seen some really crazy moves where cyclists dart out in front of cars, cut them off, or ride behind them when they are trying to back up! Crossing the street as a pedestrian takes some practice because you must watch out for cars, bikes, and trams! If you step out in front of a biker they will certainly let you know it - most likely with a ringing of their bell and a nasty hand gesture!

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