Wednesday night, Marikina.
I rode out to the heart of the city under overcast skies, half-expecting the rain to come crashing down. I guess rain wouldn't have been so bad.
I was looking forward to a nice night out on the streets pedaling with a group of people I've never met before, but bonded by the love for cycling. I remember seeing the group pass by our place one night months ago, wheels quietly rolling by, soft laughter and voices from the virtual swarm of people, punctuated by chimes of numerous bells, weaving a sort of melody that was all too brief. I fought the urge to get on my bike and chase after them then.
Seven o'clock. There were only about half a dozen people at the assembly when I arrived. I parked my ass by the fountain and chatted up a couple of the riders. Wednesday night rides, affectionately called MNM's, were a part of everyone's routine just as much as oiling their chains. Cyclists began to trickle in from every direction, lights blinking and hailing the group as they approached.
I'd like to think that Marikina's 'The Little City That Could'. You know, like that story about the small train? Anyway. You don't need to be here long before you marvel at how well-managed the city is. Of course, we have Bayani Fernando and the council of long-ago to thank for setting the city on the right track. With such narrow streets, making sure that people can get to where they're going was foremost in mind. Gleaning off the more developed European nations, bicycles were (and still are) the answer.
'Build the infrastructure, and they will cycle.'
Bicycle loans are available for government employees, and for the most part, a good lot of bicycle-commuters are from Marikina. It's my personal opinion that for getting to work, cars are for the ego and bicycles are for the heart.
Take a look around the city and you'll see a good number of people on their bicycles. Not just cruising around, but actually using them to get where they need to go. An extensive network of bicycle lanes runs all throughout the city, making cycling safe and enjoyable. Bicycle racks can be seen everywhere, and by the river you'll find a dirt-park trail where mountain-bikers take on spectacular jumps. You'll be amazed at the amazing courses that they cook up themselves, forming dirt into ramps and trails.
No fuel needed, no parking fees, burns fat, and makes you happy. What more can you ask for?
Oh, they build a good deal of camaraderie as well. And tonight was going to be a great show of force.
Back to the gathering. Soon, cyclists from all around, aboard their folding bikes, mountain bikes, fixies, japan bikes, cruisers, and what-have-yous, assembled beneath the city's clock tower. More than 70 bicycles, of various types and colors, parked everywhere. Try doing that with motorcycles or cars. The mood was festive. Everyone seemed to know everyone else and any apprehension the newbies had were quickly dispelled. The best thing was, it wasn't about the bikes, it was about the people.
Eight o'clock. A lady hollered everyone into a loose circle and gave a quick briefing. No helmet, no blinkers, no ride. Seriously, if you need a safe place to practice urban cycling before you take on the life-changing decision of cycling to work, this would be the best opportunity to learn. Newbies on the inside track, marshals on the outer track, everyone's safe and having a good time. Sweet.
We took to the streets like a swarm of fireflies: noiseless, clean, and adorned by mesmerizing lights. The best sound to our ears is when our bicycles make no sound at all. It means that every part is adequately lubricated, tight, and performing at its best.
Marshals went ahead, blocking and directing traffic, and the group pedaled through the cool night air in an eerie one-ness. Printed on the backs of many was the phrase 'Share the road'. The message couldn't have been any clearer.
Cars, trucks, jeeps, motorcycles, and tricycles made way and showed a kindness uncommon in the Metro. Maybe they were too enamored by the spectacular sight of seeing so many cyclists, with our lights and blinkers, illuminating the night, showing that yes, we can do it, and all the excuses about cycling in the city are lame.
From Bayan, to Concepcion Dos, Marikina Heights, Lower Antipolo, Marcos Highway, and finishing with a feast in Calumpang. Pure human power. Getting to your destination on your own power is something to take pride in.
Cyclists show time and time again, that the future can be cleaner and greener, if you're willing to learn.
The United Folding Bikers pedal through the streets of Marikina every Wednesday night. Assembly is 7 pm at the clock tower. Please make sure you've got a helmet and blinkers.
