Radu learned how to cycle from an early age (7-10 years old) and was inseparable from his bike during his teens – though mostly riding for pleasure.
Now, he uses his folding bike to get around town or for work. He bought it in the US, in the idea that when coming back to Bucharest, he could combine it with the subway. But it did not go as planned: ”Taking your bike in the subway at rush hour is next to impossible – so I just cycle, not take my bike on any other means of transport. But I get to take it with me inside almost everywhere – even to the barber’s shop”, says Radu.
When it comes to biking in Washington State, he liked the fact that drivers respected cyclists. He remembered the funniest rides where when shopping for one or two weeks’ groceries – the bike was so full that sometimes he would have to walk back home, next to it.
In Copenhagen people go everywhere by bike, regardless of the occasion. So it is comes as no surprise that he helped a friend move into her apartment – carrying a lot of bags and a luggage spinner – all while cycling.
Radu enjoys cycling for pleasure but also loves the sense of freedom and independence you get when using your bike as your main means of transport.
Radu before a competition
First bike memory: Going down some stairs with his bike – and the bike braking while doing that.
Places he has cycled: Bucharest and around, Slănic Prahova Salt Mine, Washington state – USA, Copenhagen – Denmark
Bike(s) owned: Giant Expressway (folding)
Greatest bike ride: definitely cycling inside the Slănic Prahova Salt Mine