The bicycle was invented in the early 1800s. Early fashions were extremely
cumbersome and dangerous for the rider. Like the open water swimmers who
rejected the dangerously heavy swimwear of their day, there can be little doubt
many tried riding their cycles naked, however, little information about such
outings was made.
For the most part the
naked cycling that has taken place has been mostly at naturist/nudist
communities and resorts around the world. Small community festivals,
less-traveled roads, mountain trails, and other remote outdoor areas have also
been favorite places for those looking for peace and fresh air away from their
hectic urban lives.
As streaking became
popularized in 1974, more
streakers reached for their bikes for some fun
variation. Several parades and fairs became targets for those wishing to crash
the event and add a bit of spontaneity and thrills. The Summer Solstice Parade
in Fremont District of Seattle is probably the best example. Naked riders also
showed up randomly at Critical Mass events around the world.
All of the groups on this
page have had their own approach to cycling naked. Some focus on body painting
and participate within the context of ancient cultural celebrations. Others use
their body to bring attention to political issues. Some ride at night and others
during the day. Some ride
tricycles, unicycles,
skateboards, rollerskates, or rollerblades. What is your city's ride going
to be like?
Activist Richard Collins:
"I started regularly cycling nude through
Cambridge in June 2002. After about half-dozen trips I was in the Daily Mail
(Oct 4th), other local and national papers, and on Anglia TV News.
I
continued throughout 2003 and was in Anglia TV's 'Table Talk' two weeks ago for
1 hour (nude) and talking about nude cycling!
I've
done well over 500 miles nude on roads, country lanes and footpaths cross
country." [source e-mail interview, 11 Feb 2005, with Richard Collins]
Richard, who lives in Hardwick, Cambridge has been arrested numerous times and
released. Richard says: "My outings are NOT protests as such but 'activities'.
Simply me having fun! And exercising my right to nude freedom!"