Have you ever had a nickname that stuck with you and captured a part of your journey? For me, that nickname is “Bike Lady.” It’s more than just a label—it’s a piece of who I am. Before moving to Davis, biking was something I did now and then with friends, never imagining it would become my daily routine. But life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths.
I never set out to be called the “Bike Lady.” Yet, here I am, pedaling through life, embracing the freedom and joy that biking brings. In this post, I’ll share how this nickname came to be and how it shaped the lifestyle I’ve grown to love.
The Vibrant College Town of Davis
Nestled in Northern California, Davis is a classic college town centered around the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). This university adds an academic buzz and hosts cultural events that keep the town lively and fun.
But what really makes Davis stand out is its biking culture. With bike lanes and crossings everywhere, biking isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life. That’s how I became known as the “Bike Lady.” Events like the Whole Earth Festival and Picnic Day celebrate this biking spirit and bring the community together.
Davis is also home to the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame, which honors American cyclists and biking history. This only adds to Davis’s reputation as a top spot for biking enthusiasts.
Of course, Davis isn’t only about biking and school. Its downtown area is full of diverse restaurants, local farmers’ markets, and cultural festivals. There’s always something to do and see.
For me, Davis is where my biking journey truly began, and where the nickname “Bike Lady” became a part of my life. It’s a place that blends learning, fun, and a strong biking community, making it a special place to call home.
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 Davis because my shop was nearby, hoping to balance work and family life.
Before the move, I picked up an old Cannondale mountain bike, not realizing just how much it would change my life. At first, biking was simply a practical way to get around. I used it to take my kids to school, commute to work, and run errands around town.
But it quickly became more than that. Biking turned into a daily routine and a true passion. Wherever the wheels took us, we went. What started as a practical choice soon became a defining part of my life. And that’s how my journey as the “Bike Lady” truly began in the charming town of Davis.
Becoming the Bike Lady of Davis
In my early days in Davis, I found so much joy in embracing life in this small college town. It was a completely new experience for me. Riding through the UC campus was always a highlight of my daily routine, giving me the chance to soak in the beautiful scenery as I pedaled along.
Whether I was grocery shopping, running errands, or visiting my stores, my bike was my faithful companion. I was biking nearly 20 miles a day, weaving through the town and its many bike lanes.
Then one day, a PG&E representative came by for a service call. When I answered the door, he looked at me and exclaimed, “You’re that bike lady!” I was caught off guard but felt flattered by his recognition. From that day on, people started calling me “The Bike Lady.”
Even during simple errands, like getting an oil change, someone would greet me and mention they had seen me biking past their shop. These small but sweet encounters helped shape my identity in the community and made me feel like I truly belonged.
How Biking Changed My Life
Embracing a biking-centered lifestyle in Davis has truly changed my life. Not only did it improve my physical health, but it also gave me a sustainable and convenient way to get around town.
Biking reduced my carbon footprint and made traffic and parking much easier to handle. It turned daily errands and commutes into something enjoyable and stress-free.
The emotional benefits were just as meaningful. As the Bike Lady of Davis, biking gave me a sense of peace and connected me with the community.
Riding in light rain became a calming experience, with the gentle patter of raindrops against my skin. It felt like a quiet ritual, strengthening my bond with this special place and adding a touch of nostalgia to my rides.
Biking also pushed me to explore more, helping me find hidden corners of Davis I might have never seen otherwise. This sense of discovery has become a key part of my balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Memories of Life as the Bike Lady
Davis was more than just a town to me—it was my home. My daughters thrived there, and my love for biking blossomed. Every corner is filled with treasured memories that have become part of who I am.
Life has since taken me to Sacramento, just 30 minutes away. I moved for good reasons, but I still long for Davis. I miss those long bike rides and the joy of exploring every hidden gem in this charming college town. Especially dear to me are the cycling adventures I shared with my daughters—discovering new places together and making priceless memories along the way.
Now living in Sacramento, I still ride my bike from time to time, often with my beloved dog, Shadow, by my side. Yet, the memories of being “The Bike Lady” in Davis remain etched in my heart. It’s an unforgettable chapter of my life that I will always hold close.
