Bicycles of Italy

[hellshotrods]

While visiting Firenze and Venezia I spotted a few bikes used as local transportation . And while a used bike can cost 40 euros a good lock will cost you 60 euros because in Florence 1,500 bikes are stolen per year

 

[hellshotrods]

Most everyone rides what looks like a "girl" bike frame, because like a Vespa, it's easy to get in and out of the saddle. I also notice that if youchain your bike to close to a garage - the car that make a tight turn (narrow streets) runs over you wheel. I saw a lot of taco wheels.

 

[bikemonkey]

Thanks for posting the pics! The overwhelming utilitarian use of bicycles across the pond is laudable in many respects but the pics are a bit depressing as well. Some of it bleeds through and speaks to the underlying decaying infrastructure issues in these ancient, overcrowded European cities. And it is also sad to see poorly mistreated bicycles regardless of maker. The ones that have been well ridden but cared for are the real gems!