by Victor Estevanovich Rojas
Considered a humble vehicle by many, it is precisely in this humility that its greatness lies. They come in all prices, colors, sizes, all with two tires, pedals, seat and steering wheel… What simple engineering! We could spend all day praising it and riding it, whether to work, for fun, or to win a prize.
History tells us that its origins go back to the ancient civilizations of India, Egypt or China, where the wheels were made of wood….a beautiful beginning and not a surprising one.
James Starley, an Englishman, was a reformer of the bicycle in the 19th century, and compared to current day models, the difference is minimal. Like everything in life, this noble invention has its nickname…the BIKE. For children it is one of the most sought-after and expensive toys, one that not everyone can afford; to ride one gives a feeling of independence and daring. Years have passed, and though I have never had a bike, I continue to marvel at them.
Now I live in Sámara and have had the opportunity to see them every day doing different tasks: with ladies taking their children to school; going to work early from Buena Vista to El Torito, from Barco Quebrado to Garza, crossing the river at Esterones or touring between Ostional and Nosara…and we mustn’t forget to watch them go by the esplanade in Carrillo or descending Cuesta Grande. So, let’s ride a bike, for health and for fun.
