The Thousands

Best big-screen bike scene of all time: Now and Then. A bunch of pre-pubescent girls trailblazing through the suburban Midwest in pedal pushers, plaid shirts and plaits. If only real life could be that good.

Spring brings the promise of renewed youth. It also brings more sunlight and nicer on-road conditions. Really, its the perfect time to mount a bike. Electra Bikes, like anything made in California, comes with a pretty utopian promise: “we design our bikes as extensions of your imagination, style and sense of adventure.” But you know what, I BUY IT. That’s why I’m buying one.

Unique designs, retro colours, shiny shiny steel, and soft leather – your wheels are about to be top of the heap. Pre-made bikes come in a variety of makes – Cruisers, Townies, Amsterdams, Ticinos and Verses, all with patented flat foot technology (for us clumsy not-born-to-be-athletes). The names certainly conjure an image of a better world: Mulholland, Ghostrider, Fleur, Gypsy, Peacock and Gigi. Accessories include baskets, bells, mirrors, mud flaps, carriers and grips. My favourite has to be the camera mount which attaches to your handle bars.

Now, go find yourself a gang of sweethearts. You’ll soon be enjoying a Jeffrey Eugenides moment. #sigh