The truth is, it’s been years since I’ve ridden my bike. Two years after having Oak, I injured my knee (unbeknownst to me) and tried not to work it too hard, until I couldn’t bear it. I finally visited my doctor’s office, and was prescribed a few good months of physical therapy, which I only halfway completed. But when winter’s dark skies peeled back to reveal our favorite blooming trees and our warm city pavement, I was ready to get back on my bike. I sought the okay from a new physical therapist. They didn’t just say it was fine to ride again, but encouraged trying biking as the kind of slow exercise that could re-strengthen my now weak knees, legs and hips. The whole shebang now needs sustained work, which is mind-blowing at 29...
While this post is very much about getting back on my bike, it is also about what to wear when you do so. See, now I’m not the only bike person. We are a family of bikes. Truthfully, I am the least likely to ride. So if anything, I hope this post comes in the form of encouragement that you, too, can ride with your kids (weak knees and all), and still find your own personal style rings loud and true. While this outfit was for the early morning biking drop-off, feel free to replicate it any time you so choose….
Here’s what I’m wearing:
A 90s floral dress, Everlane Utility Jacket, green suede Pumas, a silk scarf, and using my beloved PUBLIC Bike
Don’t forget the helmet!
Of course! But unpictured. 😉
I always love your style posts, Latonya, but I especially loved this one. I try to ride my bike as often as possible, but living in somemetimes-frigid, sometimes-blistering Idaho and working at a semi-professional attire job makes it so hard! I’m thinking maybe I need to get a bike with a dropped bar (i.e. a girl bike) to make it easier…
Hi Kasi!
I have always loved bikes with a dropped bar because it does fit my overall style. I feel more excited to dress it up a bit, while also still keeping it casual and functional for the ride. You can also always put sneakers on while riding and then switch to shoes (throw them in your bag) for more formal work.
I am not sure if I will be riding in the New York winter, though! So I feel you.
xoxo
L
If I may, have you tried to rise your saddle ? As I can see you leg stays quite folded when your pedal is down and it is extra tiring, your thigh muscle can never rest. The ideal position (and less demanding) should be : a leg nearly straight when your pedal is down.
I know that balance is harder that way and you can try to rise your saddle inch by inch. But you’ll see it will be much more easy on you thighs and knees.
And by the way, beautiful bike !
Thank you so much Emma! It’s funny, because when I went to Berlin and rented a bike, I was reminded of this and we fixed the saddle. But I totally forgot to fix it when I came back home! I’m going to try and make it a bit tighter. I do think it will help my legs and knees do less work.
XO
L
I was going to say helmet too. I’m that person who yells at every other biker to wear a helmet hahaha let’s make helmets cool. Lol
You look great! When you’re ready to ride through prospect park let me know
Hahah! Yes! I find it sometimes really difficult with my hair!! I am still on the hunt for the perfect one that actually fits.
xo
L