When I arrived to Amsterdam in 2001, having ridden a (too) small mountain bike for most of my teens, I was shocked by the bicycle culture. It was amazing. It was also a ‘get out of the bike lane or you will get run over’ type of vibe. I loved it!

When I got back to Toronto, I immediately started to search for a Dutch bike on Craigslist. My first Dutch bike was a 90s Azor Jersey – a great bike! I never looked back. For me, a Dutch bike is intuitive… the upright and therefore safe riding position, the weather resistant components and accessories, the style, and of course, the durability and size!

In 2014, I became a father and my love for Dutch bikes had manifested – I had the perfect bike to seat up my infant child! Years later, we still ride. Maquis now rides on the Polisport Guppy Junior (when he is not riding his own bike), which is available for rent. Riding together has shaped our experiences and perspectives. It’s truly a love affair that has filled our lives with activity, freedom, and joy!