Bicyclists will shed clothes in protest ride

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2001953594_naked11m.html

Friday, June 11, 2004 - Page updated at 12:55 A.M.
Bicyclists will shed clothes in protest ride

By Tan Vinh
Seattle Times staff reporter

Folks may be used to naked bikers at the Fremont Solstice Parade. But are they ready for bikers baring all around Queen Anne, downtown and splashing into the Seattle Center's International Fountain?

Rain or shine, some activists plan to show their sunny side tomorrow as part of World Naked Bike Ride Day. Seattle is one of 22 cities around the world, including Olympia and Bellingham, where riders plan to protest oil dependency and "to empower people to feel more comfortable with their bodies," said Daniel Johnson, the lead organizer of the Seattle ride.

At least 50 riders here have shown interest, although how many will ride is unclear, organizers said.

The exact route has not been determined, but riders plan to gather at noon at Gasworks Park and will probably ride along the Burke-Gilman Trail, then cross under the Aurora Bridge and head up Phinney Avenue North to Fremont. Then organizers plan to ride through Queen Anne before heading to Dexter Avenue North to the International Fountain at Seattle Center, where they plan to jump in.

Seattle can be chilly!



http://www.wgoeshome.com

Umm..they might want to reconsider. It's 50 and DAMN chilly today!

NOT!

:shrug: I somehow doubt it is what I care about.

Hey, I'm all for it. I cycle everywhere, and our oil dependency is a matter of grave concern. And, yeah, being more comfortable with one's body is a great thing to promote.

However, being comfortable on one's bike takes precedence for me. It took me years to find the right padding and seat to protect the old family jewels from excess pain. I simply can't imagine putting myself through the sort of pain necessary to participate in this event. OUCH! I mean, come on. Seattle streets are not exactly in great shape. Bounce, bounce, bounce = Ohhhhh! Awwwww! Shit!

Clearly these people have not thought this through.

Sorry, couldn't resist. :)

Why do all these guys insist on being nude? Don't they realize how easily bullets penetrate uncovered flesh? They'd be better off cycling in full Kevlar suits with ceramic plate inserts over vital areas, including ballistic-armor helmets. That will protect them from O'Reilly listeners who want to put their idol's philosophy into action. (And wearing all that additional weight will provide more resistance, and the riders will be healthier as a result.)