Quote:
Originally Posted by Paradoxodarap
A question for anyone who might know the answer. What is the origin of the use of bicycles at the Fremont solstice parade?
Many of the participants put a great deal of thought into their body art and spend a considerable amount of time applying paint and accessories. During the parade, those who walk, instead of bicycle, do a superior job of presenting themselves to the public. I'm puzzled why the vast majority don't walk. It's surprising the parade isn't strictly a walking event.
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The origin of the nudity there is from the days when it was considered illegal and participants subject to arrest; it's a fairly long route so to decrease police opportunities to stop them (also before the days of bicycle cops!) they "streaked" bicyclically rather than bipedally. There were enough years like that for the wheeled tradition to take hold; finally, the naked ride is still not part of the sanctioned parade, and technically occurs
before the official start, which is signaled by the banner-carriers, ahead of whom all cyclists are expected to remain (a safety rather than a moral issue).