In the bustling city of Johannesburg, a revolution is taking place on two wheels. 'You can do hard things!' This empowering message echoes through the streets, led by a group of young cycling enthusiasts who are challenging societal norms and reclaiming their space. But what's the story behind this inspiring movement?
On a scorching spring morning, Karabo Mashele, a 32-year-old cycling enthusiast, rallied a group of female riders up the hilly streets of Johannesburg's affluent suburbs. Her words of encouragement, 'You can do hard things!', became a rallying cry for these women, many of whom were new to cycling. Twice a month, Mashele leads casual rides for Girls on Bikes, a group of up to 25 women in their 20s and 30s, exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods. And this is just the beginning of their journey.
Johannesburg, a metropolis of nearly 5 million people, presents a unique challenge for cyclists and pedestrians. The city's infrastructure, with its dense townships and sprawling suburbs connected by highways, is not cyclist-friendly. Cycling to work is rare, with less than 1.5% of commuters choosing this mode of transport, mostly migrant workers from neighboring African countries. Bikes are often seen as either a luxury hobby or a necessity for the less fortunate. But a group of passionate young riders is determined to change this perception.
South Africa's metropolitan areas still bear the scars of apartheid, with a stark divide between wealthy areas and the townships where the black population was forced to live. However, the members of Girls on Bikes and other cycling groups are turning this narrative on its head. They are taking back the streets, one pedal stroke at a time.
Titi Mashele, Karabo's brother, recognized the power of cycling as a political statement. He founded the Banditz Bicycle Club in 2018 to foster a sense of community and now owns a bike shop, organizing weekly 'Homies Night Rides'. He encouraged Karabo to start Girls on Bikes, empowering women to take up cycling and challenge stereotypes.
'It's a powerful statement to see people of color cycling in these suburbs,' Karabo said, reflecting on the curious and sometimes surprised looks they receive. She aims to change the perception of cycling among black South Africans, recalling an incident in Soweto where children thought they were tourists. 'I had to explain that I was from here, that I was like them,' she said, determined to break down barriers.
But here's where it gets controversial. Johannesburg's cycling scene also includes a unique subculture known as 'Stance culture'. Originating in the 1980s, it began with souped-up cars spinning in circles at funerals, often associated with gangsters. Now, it has evolved into a sport, attracting sponsors like Red Bull. And this trend has found its way onto two wheels.
In Soweto, children have taken to spinning on modified bikes, forming crews like Soweto Street Fighters and Bikerboyz. These young riders battle each other, showcasing their mastery of tricks like 'doughnuts' and 'the kitchen'. The bikes are customized with two frames welded together, smaller wheels, and low-slung designs, requiring riders to lean forward in a distinctive stance.
In the eclectic neighborhood of Brixton, Percy Zimuto and Lesedi Mosima of the Sentech Croozers crew display their artistic creations. They've modified their bikes with silver mudguards, antelope-horn-shaped handlebars, and vibrant paint jobs. These bikes are not just a mode of transport but a form of self-expression.
Zimuto, a freelance photographer, sees Stance culture as a way to merge movement and art, attracting attention and engaging people. He founded the crew in 2018 and has since recruited new members, aged 12 to 20, as older members moved on. The crew has cycled from Soweto's FNB Stadium to the new business district of Sandton, known as 'Africa's richest square mile', and has even featured in advertisements for various brands.
Zimuto's words capture the essence of this cycling movement: 'When I walk the streets without my bike, I'm just an ordinary person. But with my bike, I become someone people notice and want to know.'
And this is the part most people miss—the power of cycling to bring about social change and challenge stereotypes. These young riders are not just navigating the streets of Johannesburg; they're paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant city. So, what's your take on this cycling revolution? Is it a welcome change or a controversial trend? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
