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Welcome to Velo Vision magazine, covering specialised bikes, cycling as transport and human power. It's a quarterly dose of cycle inspiration.The current issue is Issue 16. The next issue is out early March 2005.
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Innovative events from Chicago's BikewinterAn evening of 'Pedalin' Poetry' and the Santa Cycle Rampage - just two of the innovative cycle happenings during Chicago's 'Bike Winter'. Could your cycle group pick up some ideas? "Whether you have an original bicycling poem you would like to share, or want to read someone else's, or just listen, come to this FREE fun event to warm up your winter with Chicagoland's vibrant bicycling community." So says the invite to "Pedalin' Poetry - Open Mic for Bike Writers. Special feature: the Baiku Challenge." at Gallery Cabaret in Chicago. It's just one of several interesting ideas which cyclists in Chicago have come up with to liven up their long cold winter. Campaign, racing or just social cycle groups across the world might pick up some ideas from these folks - their very professional website, bikewinter.org, simply exudes a sense of fun and enthusiasm.  The website and series of events are put together by riders from Chicago's Critical Mass ride: "The idea was very simple --with the proper gear and a little determination, Chicago cyclists can continue to enjoy the health, economic, environmental and social benefits of biking year round. Add in the comraderie of hundreds of riders and dozens of exciting events and you've got Chicago Bike Winter!" Want more ideas? Why not annoy the neighbours with a "Bike Winter Rock N' Roll Benefit: Help pay the Bike Winter bills. Rock out with Mr. Rudy Day, Twang Bang and Eric Roth and the Silver Schmatzee." Or spice up your party by making it into a Critical "Mass"querade... Or how about a "Parking Enforcement Agent Appreciation Day"? These people are the cyclist's friend! It's worth putting them in a positive frame of mind about keeping bike lane parking regulations enforced... You might have to wait a few months before tryineg this one, but the Santa Cycle Rampage was a hugely effective 'draw' for the media.  Cycle culture is never more truly named than in Chicago - the events series includes a play ("Faulkner's Bicycle"), art exhibitions ("Critical Mass Art Show") and even educational talks. "Dating & Socializing by Bike" is sure to be pupular - time and place still to be announced: "You'll learn: - Flirting by bike - How two can ride on one bike - Dress to ride--and still look good - What to do if they can't keep up - Locking tips that beat thieves" Coupled with some good publicity this sort of program can do a lot of good for a city's cycling profile, presenting cyclists as contributing positively to community life, as well as being great fun for those who take part. Enjoy! Posted on 19 January 2001 Your comments ...
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