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The movement started when various naked rides united under the World Naked Bike Ride banner. The first event, in Spain in 2004, has multiplied since to take in 50 cities. Schust helped organise the first London ride in the same year, attracting 60 trailblazers. He estimates about three-quarters of riders at least finish fully nude. “Aside from it being potentially embarrassing, it’s actually a relatively discreet way to be naked in public,” he says, offering tips to anyone tempted to join in (smaller rides take place this weekend in Manchester, Bristol, Cardiff and Canterbury). “Carry everything with you. Bring a bike that works – you don’t want a puncture – and clothes in case you need to stop to go into a shop. On a hot day you may also want some sort of towelling because you could get sweaty and create friction.”
Ride on people! I live in Bloomington, IN and it’s still illegal to even expose your breasts in public. Boo. I’ve definitely participated in a (secret) naked bike ride after midnight swimming, though. It’s a joyous experience.
In other words, because the London Naked Bike Ride is simply a nude protest, it isn’t illegal at all. In fact, the organisers often work closely with the police throughout the ride. However, to make extra sure that participants don’t stray into breaking the law, organisers encourage people to only remain nude for the duration of the ride.
Why are all these bicycle enthusiasts stripping down for a breezy ride down some of Chicago’s most busy streets? It’s not merely an act of exhibitionism, but rather a demonstration that seeks to raise awareness of bikes as mode of transportation (one that doesn’t rely on oil) and promote positive body image. Full-frontal public nudity is a finable offense in Chicago, so most World Naked Bike Ride participants take some precautions to cover up, but if you happen upon the mass of riders, you’ll see plenty of skin.
If public nudity in Vancouver is illegal… is this annual naked bike ride breaking the law?
