Video of “Promoting Cycling in the Netherlands” in 1985 – by Markenlei on YouTube
Mark over at Bicycle Dutch has posted some Dutch promotional cycling videos circa 1985. The videos exploit stereotypes, with an English, American and Italian tourist each talking about bicycles in the Netherlands.
Mark points out that “Even in 1985 the Dutch needed foreigners to point out how good it is to cycle in the Netherlands”.
I particularly enjoyed the amusing Italian’s perspective. He closes with this line:
One type, it’s a bike for two. Another type, a shopping bike on wheels, he he. See, biking is good for the body, good for the legs, good for the eyes. My eyes…
For the full article, check out Mark’s blog Bicycle Dutch.
Speaking of the Netherlands, in just four days I will be arriving in Amsterdam to spend the weekend exploring the city by bicycle (as well as quite possibly drinking some green beer with Marc from Amsterdamize).
James D. Schwartz is a Transportation Pragmatist and the Editor of The Urban Country. You can contact James at james.schwartz@theurbancountry.com or follow him on Twitter.
Related Articles:
- My Dutch Family History (Feb 2011)
- Anatomy of a Dutch Bicycle (Jan 2011)
- Dutch Cycle Chic – Toronto Style (Dec 2010)
- Amsterdamizing The World (Jan 2011)
- Ghettoize Me, Please (Jan 2011)
I must agree with the efforts on promoting cycling in the Netherlands. Even the football athletes use cycling as training.
I must agree with the efforts on promoting cycling in the Netherlands. Even the football athletes use cycling as training.
Cycling is great exercise equipment from the beginning.. And really it keeps you fit. And everyone should learn it because in future without fuel we only have this option for transport..
Cycling is great exercise equipment from the beginning.. And really it keeps you fit. And everyone should learn it because in future without fuel we only have this option for transport..