| Davidavin |
06-27-2014 02:29 PM |
Quote:
Originally Posted by zeemzima
(Post 1806199)
Not sure why but I read as the economy gets worse people become more conservative, not with money but with risks in general (like riding naked)
It's really a shame tho :/
|
Can't really say the economy is noticeably worse or that there has been a shift to more conservative values. Also, simple pleasures such as getting naked in public often buck the trend due to the fact that it's cheap ( I.e. affordable) entertainment vs taking trips to Europe, for example.
I don't think we're probably witnessing anything other than the usual fading of a hot trend. And is it really fading? I need more evidence. The smaller WNBR rides have always been fragile. The larger ones show gains in some locations, losses in others. One thing remains very clear to me: in both the US and UK, there is a large cadre of very enthusiastic, dedicated riders to whom these rides seem to be the highlight of their year. They will travel great distances to ride. These are the folks whom I expect will keep this tradition alive despite the economy, local politics, weather, etc.
They will ride despite massive internet exposure. They form the backbone of the largest rides, and should keep them viable for years to come as the smaller ones waste away. My only concern is that in some locations, this enthusiastic cadre appear to be predominantly gay men. But not so in portland or at fremont.
This spring I have witnessed a ton of youthful enthusiasm over getting naked in public. At collins beach, portland and Eugene wnbr, and at fremont. First timers, excitedly talking about their experience. As long as I continue to witness this, I will feel pretty secure about the future of naked biking and sunning in public
Davidavin |
