Saturday, November 12, 2011

Autumn Tweed Ride Snapshots


Last month I attended my first Tweed Ride. It was immensely enjoyable! I became acquainted with nattily dressed lads and ladies, and we shared a brisk ride along one of Edmonton's finest scenic routes.
Our meeting place was at the University of Alberta. Karen, Deborah and I decided to attend together. I had previously met a few people who were gathered at the square, but most of them were unfamiliar yet  friendly faces.
What is a tweed ride, you say? It's an urban bicycle ride with a sense of style. The idea of a "Tweed Run" originated in London,organized by an on-line cycling forum called "London Fixed Gear & Single Speed". The official tweed ride site  is a wealth of information on suitable clothing, grooming for men, and vintage cycling photos. Traditional British cycling attire is encouraged, as are vintage bicycles!
Flat caps and suits were worn by many gentlemen. The guys looked so stylish! The men were just as wonderfully attired as the ladies, it was great to witness so many stylish men.


It was delightful to see someone wearing plus the traditional plus four breeches and argyll socks! 


I apologize for the lack of photos. I felt bashful about taking photos and it was quite cold. And I didn't realize that I lacked photos of myself! Check Loop Frame Love for more photos taken by Deborah.
We set off towards Fort Edmonton Park, occasionally stopping for everyone to catch up. We encountered a group of runners, who chatted with us and asked us about our ride. One of the runners commented that we looked like we belonged in another era, which was a fitting compliment.


After a long stretch of switch-backs, we stopped to enjoy a gorgeous view of the North Saskatchewan River. Our river valley trail system is one of the jewels of Edmonton. 
I love the fitted coat and black Bern helmet that fine lady is wearing. And the bow tied gentleman looked effortlessly chic.


Deborah sported a cloche hat and this great coat. Although it was rather chilly outside, we eventually took of our outerwear because we were sweating from our cycling adventure, although gloves were kept  on our hands.

If you live in Edmonton, I encourage you to attend the next tweed ride in the Spring 2012. I assume there will be a facebook page created too. Tally ho, friends!

1 remarks:

  1. That was a good ride. I have a few photos and video from it on my blog, too. It was a chilly day, but not as chilly as it is now. You have have it right about the river valley trail system. For me,it is the single best quality of life feature of Edmonton.

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for visiting and your kind comments! It's always great to hear from you.