Friday, February 14, 2014

Date Someone Who Rides a Bicycle

Well, it's Valentine's Day. On this day, people like talking about going out on dates. I'm usually teased by friends when we talk about riding a bicycle to a date (Kasya ba 'yung ka-date mo doon sa basket mo? Naku, kailangan mong humanap ng gustong umangkas sa bisikleta mo!). They think it's impractical and bordering on ridiculous. So I put together this list on why it's actually great to date someone who rides a bicycle.

This list applies to both men and women. But since I'm a guy, I'd use the masculine pronoun.

1. You're sort of sure that he has a strong sense of independence
The number one reason why I like to bike is because it gives me this sense of freedom. Once I get on the saddle, the possibilities of where I can go are just countless.  It’s liberating to not think about gas prices or if I’ll be able to grab a taxi or whether the trains are full or not. It’s refreshing to be with someone who has this strong sense of independence.



2. It's easier to do spontaneous dates
Related to the first point a biker can go to a date wherever and whenever it is, however late it can be. I always say that from my place, I can go to any point in Metro Manila (with exception of the more southern cities like Las Pinas, Muntinlupa, and Paranaque) within 30 minutes, regardless of traffic conditions. I know people think that it’s dangerous to go biking after 10:00PM, but I don’t mind it. I actually like riding late at night because there is less cars on the road.


3. You don't have to worry how he'll be able to go home
This is also related to the first point above. Sometimes, you’d be worried how your date will go home – do I need to bring him home? Where’s the nearest taxi stand? If your date is a biker, he can easily take care of himself.


4. And it's nice to get that "I'm home" text message when he finally does



5. He likes the simple things
It's easy to give gifts to someone who likes to ride a bicycle. Well, I guess this goes for anyone who is passionate about something. For bikers, it can range from bicycle stuff to toiletries. I’d appreciate something as simple as a cheap LED light or even a pack of wet wipes. When rainy season comes, a biker would appreciate a simple rain poncho from the hardware store. Oh, and towels become a very practical gift idea.


6. He is fit, in some way or another





7. He has a natural appetite for adventure
Bikers are also usually weekend warriors. On a well-rested morning, I'd love to go on a long bike ride to the mountains of Rizal. It's tiring but it's really fun. I'm sure this spirit of adventure can easily be translated to equally adventurous dates.


8. Not afraid to get down and dirty
A good biker knows how to maintain his bicycle. This includes knowing how to clean the bike chain. This chore can be quite messy. Guys who's okay with getting their hands dirty are more or less willing to do manual labor like household chores. And I think girls should date guys who are good with their hands.


9. Your only rival to his heart is his bicycle
I love my bike. I saved up so I can put it together. I don't like leaving it in places where it might get stolen. I'm with my bicycle every single day. I ride it everyday so I make sure I properly take care of it. I try to bring it to the shop every month for a thorough cleanup and maintenance check. No matter how many punctures or chain mishaps it has gone through, it'll never fail to get me to where I need to be, when it matters. I even talk to my bike sometimes. And oh how I wish it could talk back to me.



10. But at least you know what's the quickest way to his heart


Well, bikers are just like any other person. We have our strengths and we have our weaknesses. We just love to bike and we love our bicycles. Dating us need not be a hassle. It can actually be a fun and refreshing experience. 

I know we can be sweaty and a little short-winded when we arrive at dates, but please bear with us. We just tried to pedal faster because we were very excited to meet up with you.