On Sunday, Rudi, Michael, and I took part in the first ever D.C. Tweed Ride. The goal was a well-dressed and leisurely ride about town followed by libations at a respectable ale house.
We got all dolled up:
Michael even managed to borrow an old bike:
The weather was gorgeous, with sunny skies and warm temps, which meant perfect riding conditions for those with bare legs and arms, but a more harrowing (or, at least, sweaty) experience for those who went with authentic wool suits.
The ride itself went off for us without a hitch, although the start was slowed by the overwhelming number of people who thought this sounded like a most fun outing.
Want more photos?
Unlike Michael and Rudi, who thought sepia was the way to go, I figure that the whole reason you look at a modern tweed ride rather than photos of riders of yore is to see the modern meet the antique. And that melding, my friends, is in color:
There were old bikes and components:
Great hats:
Mustaches:
Parasols:
Outrageous costumes:
Vintage dresses:
All were well represented, from the dandies…
…to the quaintrelles:
It was a great time, and I can’t wait for the next one!
[As always, click for bigger versions of the shots…]