Have you ever had a nickname that became part of your identity? For me, that nickname is ‘Bike Lady.’ It’s more than just a label; it’s a reflection of my biking journey and the lifestyle I’ve embraced. Before moving to Davis, I enjoyed occasional mountain biking with friends, but it wasn’t a daily habit. It’s funny how life surprises you—I never imagined I would earn the title of ‘Bike Lady.’
In this post, I’ll share how this simple nickname shaped my life and blossomed from my love for biking. It also inspired me to ride my bike everywhere, uncovering the freedom and joy it brought.
The Vibrant College Town of Davis
Nestled in Northern California, Davis is the perfect example of a classic college town. At its heart is the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), which gives the town a unique academic feel. This university is not just a place for learning; it also hosts many cultural events that keep the community lively.
What truly makes Davis special is its love for biking. The town has a vast network of bike lanes and crossings, making biking a way of life for many residents. Events like the Whole Earth Festival and Picnic Day highlight the town’s commitment to sustainability and community, celebrating the biking culture that thrives here.
Davis is also home to the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame, which honors American cyclists and contributors to the sport. This recognition further cements Davis’s status as a bike-friendly community.
But Davis offers more than just academics and biking. The downtown area is full of diverse restaurants and food options, while local events like farmers’ markets and cultural festivals bring people together.
In short, Davis is a place where education meets youthful energy. It’s a community where learning blends with everyday fun, inviting both residents and students to explore, grow, and create lasting memories. And for me, this lively environment is where I proudly became known as the Bike Lady.
My New Life in Davis
When I moved to Davis in 2007 as a newly divorced business owner with my two daughters, life was full of challenges. I chose to relocate because my shop was close to Davis. Before moving, I got an old Cannondale Mountain bike, which turned out to be a game changer for me.
Biking quickly became more than just a way to get around; it became a way of life. I started using my bike to take my kids to school, commute to work, and run errands. Wherever the wheels took us, we followed. What began as a practical decision soon blossomed into a true passion, becoming a vital part of my daily routine. This is how my journey as the Bike Lady started in the wonderful town of Davis.
Becoming the Bike Lady of Davis
In my early days in Davis, I discovered great joy in embracing life in this small college town. It was a completely new experience for me. Riding through the UC campus was a highlight of my daily routine, where I enjoyed the beautiful scenery as I pedaled along.
Whether I was grocery shopping, running errands, or visiting my stores, my bike was my faithful companion, helping me cover nearly 20 miles each day. Then, one day, a PG&E representative came to my door for a service call. When I opened the door and he saw me, he exclaimed, “You’re that bike lady!” I was caught off guard but felt flattered by his recognition.
This moment marked the beginning of my nickname. As time went on, more people started calling me “The Bike Lady.” Even during simple errands, like getting an oil change, someone would greet me, mentioning they had seen me biking past their shop. It was a quirky yet heartwarming observation that helped shape my identity in the community.
How Biking Changed My Life
Embracing a biking-centered lifestyle in Davis has truly changed my life. Biking not only improved my physical health but also gave me a sustainable and convenient way to get around. It reduced my carbon footprint and made dealing with traffic and parking much easier, simplifying my daily errands and commutes.
The emotional benefits were just as significant. Biking provided me with stress relief and a sense of community. It also encouraged me to explore, allowing me to discover the hidden corners of Davis. This exploration helped me maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle that blended seamlessly with my daily routine.
Memories of Life as the Bike Lady
Come rain or shine, I pedaled through the streets of Davis. Riding in light rain became a calming experience, as I felt the gentle patter of raindrops against my skin. It felt almost like a ritual, strengthening my connection to this special place in a nostalgic way.
Davis was more than just a town to me. It was my home, where my daughters thrived and my love for biking grew. Every corner is filled with treasured memories that are woven into my life. However, life has taken me to a larger city, Sacramento, just 30 minutes from Davis.
Even though I moved for good reasons, I still long for Davis. I miss the long bike rides, exploring every hidden gem of this charming college town. I especially miss those cycling adventures with my daughters, discovering new places and sharing priceless moments together.
Now living in Sacramento, I still ride my bike from time to time, sometimes with my beloved dog, Shadow. Yet, the memories of being ‘The Bike Lady’ in Davis are deeply etched in my heart. It was an unforgettable part of my journey that will last forever.
Be sure to check out my articles on how to stay healthy through exercise and important bike safety tips.
