Behold my new steed - the Gentleman’s Glorie. Having missed the fixie wave the only way to go was Dutch. And after a visit to the excellent Bobbin bicycles I realised the only way to go was Dutch with pedal back brakes and unisex frame. I think unisex frame is polite for girls frame, but what the hey I’m loving this bike.

The upright position totally changes your perspective. You look ahead, down the street, not down at the road. Having my upper body in a straight position makes me feel more confident and like I deserve to be on the road.

The pedal back brake means you can’t break suddenly. You have to break gently. You have to travel (a bit) slower. Which is a good thing - you can take the time to look around.

Plus, its spec’d to the m a x. Front and back mudguards = no more wet bum. Built in dymo lights mean I can’t forget my lights / get them nicked / run out of batteries. The fully sealed chain guard keeps my strides clean. And an integral rear rack means I can give friends lifts.

But mainly its just really good fun. Riding it makes me smile.