I’ve been badgering my 9-year-old to muster up the courage to learn to ride a bike.
Yes, she’s 9, and I’m very much to blame for her latent cycling skills. I, too, was terrified of riding a bike and didn’t get on a two-wheeler until I was in third or fourth grade. In my tween years in Foster City, a small suburb outside San Francisco where man-made canals surrounded our streets, we mostly sailed or canoed to friends’ houses and that was A-OK with me. Now in L.A., I’ve adopted the city’s culture and drive everywhere. The last time I sat on a bike was at spin class more than a year ago – and my glutes still hate me for it. Bikes and I have never gotten along.
When I heard about “National Bike to Work Week” May 11-15, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to get back in the saddle, lead by example and do something good for the environment.
Here are some cycling finds I discovered while prepping for my trek across town:
Made especially with commuters in mind, Durban Bikes (Prices start at $379, www.durbanbikes.com) are foldable bikes designed in Brazil, weighing in between 26 and 29 lbs. Choose from several styles, with gears or without. The bikes are a cinch to assemble, easy to fold and unfold, and store nicely in the trunk of a car or the corner of your office. Available at Target.
Ride in total comfort with the Berkeley helmet (Bern Unlimited, $79.99, www.bernunlimited.com), made for sun and snow with a built-in visor. The company’s Zipmold foam allows for a lighter weight helmet without sacrificing safety, and the cushioned lining provides a snug and comfortable fit. Comes in a variety of colors and sizes, including junior sizes.
Bike to Work Skinny Jeans (Betabrand, $118, www.betabrand.com), have a gusseted crotch for cycling comfort and are made to look great. These stretchy jeans are water- and-soil repellant and have reflective material in the cuffs and on a back pocket flag for added visibility. Other features include a waistband loop and hidden pocket for storing biking necessities.
Don’t let the name deceive you. Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes (MD Moms, $19 for 20 Towelettes, www.mdmoms.com) are perfect for the entire family and protect against UVA and UVB rays while nourishing your skin. One wipe does the trick from head to toe and makes for easy re-application while on the go. Certified hypoallergenic and dermatologist-approved, with no greasy residue.
After your long haul to the office, you just might need Reviver Clothing Swipes, ($9.99 for a three-pack and $3.99 for single packs, www.reviver.com). These dry odor-eliminating wipes are non-toxic and restore your clothing to instant freshness with a quick swipe. Each swipe comes in a re-sealable packet, has a refreshing scent and lasts about 10 uses.