UAE’s growing cycling culture: A “wheely” good concept

By Nichole Miranda

A few years ago, most people would shy away from the idea of cycling in the UAE.

Given the traffic, lack of dedicated cycle tracks and scorching summers, who could blame them?

Today, a growing cycling culture is starting to spread across the country due to ambitious government plans to transform the emirates into bike-friendly places, new dedicated cycling tracks and infrastructure, an increase in rent-a-bike services and innovative campaigns by and for cycling enthusiasts such as the recent #cycletoworkuae campaign.

Living in the desert shouldn’t preclude you from meandering around on two wheels, with the wind (and a little sand) blowing through your hair.While Sheikh Zayed Road doesn’t top the list of ideal destinations to take your bicycle for a spin, there are numerous other options.

Set the coordinates for Nad Al Sheba cycle park, Dubai Autodrome, Jumeirah Open Beach track or Yas Marina Abu Dhabi into your GPS, and you’re sorted.

If you want to work on your health and social life, become a member of Dubai Roadsters. Traffic will definitely be an issue of the past, that’s for sure!

Dubai offers an eclectic range of bicycles that cater to every taste. You can find everything from rugged mountain bikes to elegant ones that are destined to become Instagram celebrities. Here are some machines with personality that simply deserve to call your garage their new home:

Join the Movement: Bicycles have always had a rather sweaty reputation. Armpit stains and a flustered complexion are factors that only film characters have managed to escape. You deserve to turn heads on your bicycle just like people in Lamborghinis do.

Linus bicycles, marketed by The Movement, will have people asking for autographs all around. Available in a collection of vintage colors inspired by 1960s France, these bicycles are the perfect statement accessory. You can find them at Dubai Garden Center, alongside an array of military-style helmets and minimalist wicker baskets.

Despite elaborate adjectives, the best way to describe them would be the Audrey Hepburn of bicycles.

Get hardcore with Corcel: The perfect example of big things that come in small packages.

Corcel bicycles flaunt artistically lithe structures but can conquer acres before taking a breath. The bicycle boutique also offers more than just a deal on wheels. Riding apparel can also be found on the shelves of this store. The single speed, fixed gear bicycles are designed in pastel hues and make striking photography models.

Amidst the company’s diverse collection, BIKEIDs and pure fix cycles are also available. Brooks England, Bookman and Kryptonite Locks are some brands under the shop’s roof.

Howl with Wolfi’s Bike Shop: If variety is the spice of life, this bicycle emporium will send your palette quaking.

Offering a bike for every occasion, Wolfi’s can gear everyone from amateurs to professionals with flawless wheels. If you have only just begun romancing the idea of cycling, the store even offers rental bicycles for a minimum fare. Commitment issues begone!

The company is one of the oldest of its kind in the region, and has received raving compliments. Not only have the wheels at the store been praised, but the assistants too.

Amsterdam is not only famous for treating everyday like a Woodstock festival. It also has a beautiful outlook on transportation, with bicycles being the most popular wheels on the road. The cycling culture is rich enough to have crowned the city the global capital of bicycles. In fact, sixty percent of the total journeys made in the region are on bicycles. Now that’s a road trip that belongs on your bucket list. That could be Dubai someday!

Ponder over it, with a side of actual rider-themed food at the Biker’s Cafe.

And remember that life is like a bicycle, so enjoy the ride!

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