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	<title>biking Archives - Amsterdam Mamas</title>
	<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/tag/biking/</link>
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	<item>
		<title>Life on 2 wheels</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-etiquette-and-other-tips-for-getting-around-amsterdam-on-2-wheels/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Stephanie Kernwein]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2024 10:42:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New to Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Quick Start]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[environmental]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fietsen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rules of biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[safety first]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/?p=10549</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Biking is a fun, healthy, sustainable and a very inexpensive form of transport. It is a great way to discover Amsterdam at your own pace and an even better way to integrate into the true Dutch lifestyle. Take it easy in the beginning, and before you know it, you will be parading around Amsterdam without even touching your steering wheel! Good luck and happy fietsen! </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-etiquette-and-other-tips-for-getting-around-amsterdam-on-2-wheels/">Life on 2 wheels</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>New to biking? Old to biking but need a refresher on biking rules? Stephanie Kernwein Thrane, shares invaluable tips about biking around the city, with a personal story about why following the rules is mandatory for your own safety, the safety of others and the sanctity of your wallet.</em></p>
<p><span id="more-10549"></span></p>
<p>If you are new to Amsterdam, you are likely shocked at the sheer volume of bikes everywhere. In fact, there are approximately 23 million bikes in the Netherlands which equates to an average of 1.3 bikes per person!</p>
<p>Although biking is the preferred method of transportation in Amsterdam, some newly arrived expats can be hesitant to get on a two-wheeler. I get it! Even as a Dane (I was basically born on a bike) who hadn’t biked for many years after moving to Amsterdam from London, it took me a fair amount of courage and a little practice to get back on the bike-lane. Now, there is not a single day that I don’t bike and I absolutely love it! For those who drive a car, it’s the same feeling of complete independence and ability to get on your own without relying on others.</p>
<p>I hope this short article will help newcomers to Amsterdam with a few practical tips on how to bike in a safe way and what to look out for.</p>
<h4>Traffic hierarchy:</h4>
<p>The hierarchy is as follows – Trams, bikes, pedestrians, moving vehicles (cars, buses). While cars will stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings, bikes often don’t. Legally they should, but in practice they often don&#8217;t. There is a pragmatic reason for this in the sense that the sheer volume of bikes would mean a constant stop to the flow of traffic. As a pedestrian you can easily stop walking, but if bikes have to stop at all crossings it would clog up the bike lanes and make it unsafe at times. As a cyclist you need to pay attention to zebra-crossings, try to signal or make eye contact with pedestrians in order to “agree” on who goes first. Personally, I always stop for elderly people, children and often tourists if easily identifiable (the ones who walk leisurely  in the bike lanes and cross any street only looking at the pretty surroundings… you know who I am talking about).</p>
<h4>Helmet or no helmet?</h4>
<p>It is shocking for many non-Dutch expats to see so many bikes, but no helmets, me included. In Denmark most cyclists wear a helmet, especially children and so for this reason I did too when I arrived in Amsterdam…but it didn’t last long. Biking is generally not considered dangerous here and therefore helmets are not mandatory or even encouraged. However it is a personal choice and if you want to wear a helmet to feel more comfortable, you should not hesitate doing it. With the rise in electric bikes I would not be surprised if we start seeing more cyclists in Amsterdam with helmets on.</p>
<h4>How many people can you fit on a bike?</h4>
<p>“A lot”, is the answer and there are no rules on how you carry them! I often wonder if I am at the circus or on my way to work when I see people standing at the back or front of someone else’s bike. It is quite an acrobatic skill to commute this way, but it is not illegal. However, children under the age of 8 must have a designated seat on a bike so please keep this in mind. Parents in Amsterdam often bike their children around in a bakfiets (cargo bike). Two-wheelers are preferred over three-wheelers as they take up less space on the bike lane. There are many places where you can test-bike bakfiets before buying one. <a href="https://juizz.nl/winkels/amsterdam?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF4qbr3YrECfIxeukPQ_J6rXIQ5wFxVO1nSewBqfoatI0XBJOSNUndhoCVp4QAvD_BwE">Juizz Amsterdam</a> is a good place to start.</p>
<h4>Where is a good place to start?</h4>
<p>If you are not yet ready for the bike-lanes of the city, but still want to practice, going to less busy areas or parks is a good way to start. Although tempting, avoid Vondelpark on a sunny weekend afternoon. It is complete carnage with runners, bikers, walkers, tourists, bike tours and all sorts of other people. Rembrandt park is lovely and more quiet. You can also go early in the morning (before 9am) to the 9 streets or the Jordaan or any of the inner canals. Take in the sights with minimal pedestrians or other cyclists.</p>
<h3>Texting while biking: A personal story</h3>
<blockquote><p>Completely illegal! In fact, any distractions on your phone while biking is a traffic violation. Let me tell you a personal story to warn you of the dangers of distracted biking. A few weeks ago I was biking through Vondelpark on my bakfiets with one of my kids. I took my phone out of my pocket as I felt it vibrate. The moment I looked at my screen, two uniformed police officers appeared out of nowhere and signalled me to pull over. They asked for my ID and how long I had been living in the Netherlands. Naïve as I was, I thought maybe they were doing a random police survey, but when the police officer informed me that texting while biking was made illegal in the Netherlands two years ago, I realized I was in trouble and not taking part in a survey….</p>
<p>Of course I understand that it is common sense not to text while biking, I genuinely didn’t know that it was ILLEGAL. After all, it feels as though the general biking rules in the Netherlands are quite lax… am I right?!</p>
<p>Without any hesitation, the police officer asked for my address and said that a fine would be sent to me. I asked if a warning was not sufficient as this was my first ever traffic violation, but my efforts were in vain.</p>
<p>Alas, I did the crime and will accept the punishment. I asked the police officer how much the fine would be (thinking it would be around 40 EUR in line with a small speeding ticket). Oh boy, was I wrong. The fine was 169 EUR and arrived promptly the next day in my mailbox with a convenient link to pay via IDEAL.</p>
<p>Safe to say, my phone is now safely stored away in my backpack whenever I get on my bike. For clarification I should add that any phone activity while biking is illegal so whether you are looking at directions or changing a song on Spotify, just don’t do it. Get a <a href="https://www.bol.com/nl/nl/p/telefoonhouder-fiets-waterdicht-telefoonhouder-scooter-en-kinderwagen-fiets-telefoonhouder-universeel-met-kliksysteem-large/9300000120328382/?Referrer=ADVNLGOO002036-S--9300000120328382&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF3gLc0i3pW9F7_kmJoS1fkqXNLYLeXZ5WZx5CGieOnpK5c5kCYQoUxoCtYEQAvD_BwE">phone holder</a> instead which will keep you both safe and financially stable.</p></blockquote>
<p>Biking is a fun, healthy, sustainable and a very inexpensive form of transport. It is a great way to discover Amsterdam at your own pace and an even better way to integrate into the true Dutch lifestyle. Take it easy in the beginning, and before you know it, you will be parading around Amsterdam without even touching your steering wheel! Good luck and happy fietsen!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-etiquette-and-other-tips-for-getting-around-amsterdam-on-2-wheels/">Life on 2 wheels</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Finding the Perfect Mother&#8217;s Bike</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/finding-the-perfect-mothers-bike/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Lana Huf-Germain]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2018 19:45:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New to Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fiets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fietsen]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/finding-the-perfect-mothers-bike/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>If you&#8217;re&#160;a parent in Amsterdam, you&#8217;re going to want to do what the locals do and transport your children by bike. Whether you&#8217;re a mama or a papa you&#8217;re going [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/finding-the-perfect-mothers-bike/">Finding the Perfect Mother&#8217;s Bike</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>If you&#8217;re&nbsp;a parent in Amsterdam, you&#8217;re going to want to do what the locals do and transport your children by bike. Whether you&#8217;re a mama or a papa you&#8217;re going to need what is known in this country as a moederfiets, or mother&#8217;s&nbsp;bike. Local mama, Lana Huf-Germain, is here to give you the low-down on this sturdy child-transporting two-wheeler.</em><!--break--></p>
<h3>Finding the Perfect Mother&#8217;s Bike!</h3>
<p>You have figured out for yourself a way to cycle through Amsterdam with confidence. You know how to dodge speeding taxi cabs, tram tracks, and wandering tourists. But now comes your next obstacle … how do you cycle through Amsterdam with kids? Whether you are&nbsp;pregnant, have&nbsp;a baby or toddler, or multiple kids on board, it&#8217;ll&nbsp;take&nbsp;some practice before you are&nbsp;cycling&nbsp;fearlessly. Having a good, solid, comfortable, and reliable bike will help relieve those white knuckles!</p>
<h3>So What Exactly is a Mother&#8217;s Bike?</h3>
<p>A mother&#8217;s bike has more space between the saddle and handlebars, making it easier to&nbsp;get on and off. The bike also has a double kickstand, so when you get off but your children or groceries are still on, the bike won&#8217;t tip over. Mother&#8217;s bikes are designed to carry a heavy load. After all, more often than not you&#8217;ll be cycling around with about 100 kilos (adult + child + groceries). A strong frame and&nbsp;wheels with good spokes are essential. The tires are a bit wider for stability and handlebars are wider to fit the front seat better.</p>
<h3>Brands with Special Mother&#8217;s Bikes</h3>
<p>Choosing a mother&#8217;s bike really depends on who YOU are! We can’t stress enough how important it is to try them yourself! Weight, height, looks, and overall feel of the bike vary and will feel better or worse to different bodies. Your height and weight will matter, as will that of the bike.&nbsp;You need to feel comfortable and safe.</p>
<p>Here are some examples of brands with a standard mother&#8217;s bike in their selection:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.cortinafietsen.nl/fietsen#?minPrice=0&amp;maxPrice=2500&amp;sort=1&amp;moreFilters=1&amp;isSuitableAsMotherBike=1&amp;noQuery" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cortina Transport</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://www.gazelle.nl/bloom-c7?gclid=Cj0KCQiAuP7UBRDiARIsAFpxiRJss5oKJMk4rudhKOMW1D1-TKqhZo7JnmVeJcOacgYj-FlpKUBoSkwaAuF_EALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gazelle Bloom</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.batavus.nl/moederfietsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Batavus Mambo</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.sparta.nl/speciale-fietsen/moederfiets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sparta Amazone</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.bsp-fietsen.nl/fietsen/moederfietsen/seine-classic/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BSP Seine</a></p>
<h3>How to Customize Your Own Bike into a Mother&#8217;s Bike</h3>
<p>If you already own the best bike in the world – and yes, sometimes that’s truly how we feel about our bikes – you might consider customizing your own bike into a mother&#8217;s bike. &nbsp;The difference between using your own bike and a pre-made mother bike is the space between the saddle and&nbsp;handlebars. On a regular bike this space is shorter.&nbsp;This can impact your ability to get on and off your bike with a pregnant belly and&nbsp;if you put a child seat on the front it could poke you in the stomach or chest. To make more space you can customize your saddle and your handlebars.</p>
<p>Having a shorter bike seat will make a lot of difference space-wise. The <a href="https://www.stellafietsen.nl/p/selle-royal-rokzadel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>ROKzadel</em> </a>(skirt saddle) is an example of a shorter bike seat you can install to make more room. &nbsp;</p>
<p>To make more room, especially while pregnant and/or adding a child seat in front, consider special,&nbsp;<a href="http://moederstuur.com/60-moederstuur" target="_blank" rel="noopener">larger mother&#8217;s bike handlebars</a><a href="http://moederstuur.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">.</a></p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.azor.nl/azor-fietsen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Azor bike</a> is recommended by a lot of mamas because it can easily be customized into a&nbsp;mother&#8217;s bike. Every bike sold at Azor is completely customizable, so they are&nbsp;a good choice of bike for anyone with special space requirements. &nbsp;</p>
<h3>Child Seats –&nbsp;Front or Back?</h3>
<p>​So now you that have chosen a bike, or have customized your own, where do you put your child? There is an ongoing debate&nbsp;about the safety of&nbsp;cycling with a newborn&nbsp;baby in a sling/carrier. Some&nbsp;people claim&nbsp;this is a very unsafe way to cycle with your baby, while others feel that mothers have been transporting their babies this way for decades and it’s perfectly fine. On a personal note, it felt safer to me then having my baby on a bike seat, but to each their own.</p>
<p>Your baby must be able to sit up and support their own neck before you can put them in a front seat. You can also purchase a windshield to protect your child from the wind and the rain. Once your child is too heavy or big for you to have on your handlebars (usually around the two and a half&nbsp;year mark) you can choose to put your child on a seat on the back instead.</p>
<p>Four Dutch brands with both front and back seat&nbsp;options, and a protection screen are:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yepp.nl/nl/product/mini" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yepp</a> &nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.qibbel.nl/EN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Qibbel</a> &nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://bobike.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bobike</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://www.bol.com/nl/p/polisport-guppy-mini-fietsstoeltje-voorzitje-zwart/9200000055364183/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guppy</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>If your child is older, but not yet big enough to sit unstrapped on the back frame, and you are willing to cycle with him/her on your front bar, a <a href="https://www.fiets-stoeltje.nl/zadels-op-de-stang/alle-buiszadels/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">seat on the front bar</a>&nbsp;might be an option for you.</p>
<p>Buying your perfect mother&#8217;s&nbsp;bike and accessories really depends on your personal taste and style. You can look online, but like many things, from cars to clothing, you can’t always tell the comfort and fit without trying it out in person. This bike will become part of your family so make sure you are 100% sure&nbsp;you have found the right one. If you are unsure, talk it through with&nbsp;your local bike shop, and try before you buy!</p>
<hr />
<p><span style="font-size:11px;"><em>Photo credits: Cortina, David Germain</em></span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/finding-the-perfect-mothers-bike/">Finding the Perfect Mother&#8217;s Bike</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Book Review: Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/book-review-learn-to-cycle-in-amsterdam/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ruth Oei-Abraham]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2018 21:36:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Book Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New to Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/book-review-learn-to-cycle-in-amsterdam/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Ruth Oei-Abraham shares her review of the book Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam, a guide to the most practised activity in The Netherlands. &#160;Neuroscientist and author Xing Chen&#160;(pictured at left) [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/book-review-learn-to-cycle-in-amsterdam/">Book Review: Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Ruth Oei-Abraham shares her review of the book <strong>Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</strong>, a guide to the most practised activity in The Netherlands.</em></p>
<p><!--break--></p>
<p><em></em><span style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span>Neuroscientist and author Xing Chen&nbsp;(pictured at left) grew up in Singapore and lived in the US and the UK before moving to the Netherlands in 2014. And what would be the first thing Chen bought on the first day she&nbsp;arrived in the Netherlands? Exactly. A bike. Or&nbsp;<em>een&nbsp;stalen&nbsp;ros</em>&nbsp;as we like to call them in the Netherlands – a steel horse.&nbsp;<em>Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam&nbsp;</em>is a must-read if you are not a born-and-bred Amsterdammer&nbsp;– I would even suggest for the local-born&nbsp;as well – if you want to master your way around Amsterdam on two wheels.</p>
<p>In this practically-sized, 157-page handbook, Chen explains everything you need to know – and every skill you need to master – about cycling in and around Amsterdam. Although most people have learnt how to bike in their youth and have probably done it for years, cycling in Amsterdam is a completely different story. That is why this book, as Chen explains in the first pages, is meant for people who already know how to ride a bicycle. It does not cover the technicalities of learning to cycle from the beginning.</p>
<p>As a Dutch national by origin, but living in London since 2005, I have personal experience of the huge difference between cycling elsewhere and cycling in The Netherlands. Especially when participating as a cyclist in the hectic traffic of Amsterdam. As&nbsp;Chen rightly states, &#8220;cyclists, not car drivers, rule the road.&#8221;&nbsp;This rule&nbsp;changes a lot about the way we cycle here.</p>
<p>What I found most appealing about this book&nbsp;is how Chen covers all the different aspects of cycling in Amsterdam. It wasn’t until I read this book that I realised how we underestimate the skills and knowledge you need to be a confident cyclist in Amsterdam. The often dangerous situations tourists on rental bikes get themselves into prove the importance of this book.</p>
<div><em><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><img decoding="async" alt="" src="/sites/default/files/two%20cyclists%20holding%20hands_0.JPG" style="opacity: 0.9; width: 300px; height: 400px; margin: 10px; float: left;" /></span></em></div>
<p>The Netherlands is known for its cycle paths separated from the main roads where cars drive, but then, in Amsterdam and in other Dutch cities, quite suddenly cyclists have to use the busy roads as there are no separate cycle paths. This can be&nbsp;quite confusing and very daunting,&nbsp;Chen notes. Chen also takes time&nbsp;to explain&nbsp;the different types of bikes: city bikes,&nbsp;sport&nbsp;bikes, folding bikes, and the very popular&nbsp;<em>bakfiets</em>&nbsp;in which parents transport their kids. From the official rules regarding traffic to the &#8220;how-to-make-sure-you-will-arrive-at-your-destination&#8221;&nbsp;rules, Chen has got it covered.</p>
<p>It’s great if you have mastered cycling Amsterdam-style, as well as knowing your way around Amsterdam, but knowing what your fellow roadies are up to is just as important, if not more so. Another important message Chen tells the newbie cyclist is that you should not only think about&nbsp;yourself in any given&nbsp;moment,&nbsp;but also one step –&nbsp;and if possible two steps – ahead as to what your fellow road-users might do. &#8220;Expect the unexpected,&#8221;&nbsp;Chen stresses, from the&nbsp;<em>bakfietsen</em>&nbsp;filled with three kids (at least!) to rows of students cycling side-by-side or cars turning right at the last minute. And let’s not forget the trams that graze past, because their tracks are next to most cycle paths.</p>
<p>All in all, the fact that Chen herself was new to the whole way of cycling in Amsterdam, might be the reason why she was able to write down all the essential rules and facts to take part in traffic on our beloved two-wheelers. A great read for those who are new to Amsterdam bike life, but also highly recommended for parents whose kids are about to conquer the cycle paths by themselves.</p>
<p><strong><em>Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</em> was written by Xing Chen. &nbsp;More information can be found at <em><a href="https://www.scriptum.nl/boeken/learn-to-cycle-amsterdam/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</a>.</em> </strong></p>
<hr />
<p><em>Amsterdam Mamas received a free copy of this book in exchange for our honest review.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/book-review-learn-to-cycle-in-amsterdam/">Book Review: Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Biking in Amsterdam: Insider Tips</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-in-amsterdam-insider-tips/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Xing Chen]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jan 2018 01:01:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New to Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fietsen]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-in-amsterdam-insider-tips/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Whether you&#8217;re new to Amsterdam, new to cycling, or both, these handy tips will help make your transition&#160;into a true Amsterdammer a smooth ride! Learning to cycle in Amsterdam traffic [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-in-amsterdam-insider-tips/">Biking in Amsterdam: Insider Tips</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Whether you&#8217;re new to Amsterdam, new to cycling, or both, these handy tips will help make your transition&nbsp;into a true Amsterdammer a smooth ride!</em></p>
<p><!--break--></p>
<p>Learning to cycle in Amsterdam traffic can be quite a challenge if you are not used to the local system. After living in the city for three years, I wanted to share my recently acquired &#8220;insider knowledge&#8221;&nbsp;with a wider audience.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here is a summary of crucial cycling advice for newcomers:</p>
<h3>1) Familiarise yourself with traffic regulations</h3>
<p>In a crowded city, a basic understanding of <a href="https://www.government.nl/documents/leaflets/2013/01/16/road-traffic-signs-and-regulations-in-the-netherlands" target="_blank" rel="noopener">traffic rules</a> is essential. Learn to tell whether you have the right of way: when do you need to stop, and when can you continue?</p>
<p>Pay attention to signs and road markings. If you do not understand the meaning of a symbol or a piece of Dutch text, you could be missing out on important information. Knowing what is permissible and what is not gives you confidence, and allows you to make decisions quickly and efficiently, whereas uncertainty and hesitation will slow you down.</p>
<p>In the event that something goes awry, it is good to be able to pinpoint whether that was due to a mistake on your part (which you can subsequently learn from), or whether it was someone else’s fault.</p>
<h3>2) Get up to speed on road etiquette</h3>
<p>If every scenario was perfectly addressed by a system of logical, comprehensive traffic regulations, and every road user followed these regulations all the time, then cycling would probably be easy. Given the sheer variety and complexity of traffic situations that occur in reality,&nbsp;that is just not possible.</p>
<p>Many aspects of cycling are governed instead&nbsp;by unwritten rules – guidelines that are not explicitly described in written regulations, but have evolved over time to become part of the collective consciousness. Such rules are specific to a particular culture and location, and typically have to be acquired through experience, observation, and common sense. Learn how to strike the right balance between being a polite cyclist, and being over-accommodating.</p>
</p>
<h3>3) Use spatial awareness</h3>
<p>Observe the traffic around you and learn to identify patterns of movement from various road users. At what speed are other people moving? How experienced are they? Can you trust them to maintain control over their actions, or are they behaving unpredictably and uncontrollably?</p>
<p>Communicate through body language: turn your head, look around, make eye contact, and use your hand to signal if you are planning to turn or stop. Use the bell or call out if necessary.</p>
<p>Develop your sense of balance so that you can stop, slow down, or speed up at a moment&#8217;s notice. Practise going at a snail’s pace or remaining in the same spot while keeping your feet off the ground. Try standing on the pedals and adjusting your body position to maintain your balance. Practise navigating sharp corners, bridges, barriers, diversions, and traffic junctions – all of which require good motor skills.</p>
<h3>4) Cycle with friends</h3>
<p>It can be very helpful to have a buddy to guide you through the city and act as a buffer against vehicular traffic. Make sure that your friend communicates clearly with you, letting you know in advance if you need to make a turn, or giving you a heads up for approaching objects.</p>
<p>Remember though, that even the most empathetic and thoughtful of friends may not always be aware of your needs, pace, or skill level on a bike – particularly if they are much more experienced in heavy traffic than you are. Which brings me to the next point …</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class=" size-full wp-image-1872" alt="" src="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/wp-content/uploads/2.JPG" style="width: 980px; height: 400px; margin: 5px;" width="980" height="400" srcset="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/wp-content/uploads/2.JPG 980w, https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/wp-content/uploads/2-300x122.jpg 300w, https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/wp-content/uploads/2-768x313.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 980px) 100vw, 980px" /></p>
<h3>5) Go at your own pace</h3>
<p>Be careful not to follow people blindly&nbsp;– whether they are good friends or strangers. For example: if the cyclists in front of you decide to dart across a traffic light that is just turning red, or they inch past other road users without leaving sufficient room for you to do the same, remain calm and assess the situation.</p>
<p>You do not have to rush to keep up – stop and wait for the traffic light to turn green again, or make way for other road users if it is appropriate. You are in charge of your bike, and you need to make your own decisions independently.</p>
<p>Similarly, if you have a bad experience (we all do), take it easy, breathe, and give yourself time to recover – and then get back on your bike again as soon as you can!</p>
<h3>6) Familiarise yourself with the technicalities of cycling</h3>
<p>When buying a bicycle and accessories, you can search through online classifieds, such as Marktplaats.nl, or visit bicycle stores. Numerous stores also provide rental bike services, usually coming along with a sturdy lock. Read up on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/stories/13-tips-stop-bike-theft/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">how to prevent your bike from getting stolen</a>. Keep your bike well-maintained: check the sides of the tires to identify the right tyre pressure, and keep the pressure within the recommended range.</p>
<p>Get to know the difference between hand brakes and foot brakes (also known as &#8220;coaster brakes&#8221;). Foot brakes are operated by pedalling backwards, hence the pedals cannot be spun backwards freely. When you come to a temporary stop, such as&nbsp;at a traffic light, keep one pedal at a high position so that you can easily push off again.</p>
<p>When it gets cold and wet, consider wearing a waterproof jacket, trousers and gloves. If it gets really chilly, you can insert hand warmers into your gloves for extra warmth. For longer journeys, you can pay a fee to <a href="http://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/14-tips-taking-bikes-public-transport">take your bicycle with you</a><a href="http://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/14-tips-taking-bikes-public-transport" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> on the Metro and train</a> during restricted hours. Alternatively, NS International (the train provider in the Netherlands) provides an <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en/door-to-door/ov-fiets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OV-fiets</a> rental service, making it easier for commuters to get to their final destination.</p>
<hr />
<p><span style="font-size:12px;">photo credits: Header: Tim Bleeker. Other pics: Xing Chen</span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/biking-in-amsterdam-insider-tips/">Biking in Amsterdam: Insider Tips</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Adjusting to the Bike: One Mama&#8217;s Experience of Getting Back on Two Wheels</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/adjusting-to-the-bike-one-mamas-experience-of-getting-back-on-two-wheels/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samantha Gale]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Sep 2017 22:39:39 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New to Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/adjusting-to-the-bike-one-mamas-experience-of-getting-back-on-two-wheels/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Learning to get back on her bike was an embarrassing experience for one Amsterdam Mama. Here she explains why. I was 14 when I asked my Dad if I could [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/adjusting-to-the-bike-one-mamas-experience-of-getting-back-on-two-wheels/">Adjusting to the Bike: One Mama&#8217;s Experience of Getting Back on Two Wheels</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Learning to get back on her bike was an embarrassing experience for one Amsterdam Mama. Here she explains why.</em></p>
<p><!--break--></p>
<p>I was 14 when I asked my Dad if I could take the British Cycling Proficiency Test – his answer was a candid no. He told me that it would be better for all concerned if I was never on the road on two wheels. I blame him entirely for what happened later.</p>
<h3>Bike Culture is Cooler Here</h3>
<p>Bicycles are a way of life for the Dutch; it is the national mode of transport and so it was inevitable that once I had moved to the Netherlands, I would have to ride a bike. I desperately wanted to fit in with the local culture, and what better way to look the part?</p>
<p>In the UK, it seems to me, cyclists are often kitted out in ultra-revealing, head-to-toe neon Lycra; an aerodynamic helmet; and a smug smile on their face. I think we can agree that this image conjures up very little to be smug about.</p>
<p>The Dutch appear to be ever-so-slightly cooler customers when it comes to the issue of bikes. Bikes are actually more of a lifestyle choice for people here. They see them, not as a weight-management device, but as a means of getting from A to B. They use them to transport groceries, children, sinks, luggage – there is literally nothing that people will not consider transporting on the back/front/side of their bikes.</p>
<h3>Back on a Bike</h3>
<p>The last time that I rode a bike was when I was nine years old and I am certain that the stabilisers were still on and it had pink ribbons trailing from the handle bars. After three months in the Netherlands, it was time for me to get back on that bike. Well, not actually THAT bike. That would be ridiculous. But even getting on that bike with the stabilisers and the pink ribbons would have been less humiliating than the series of events that followed.</p>
<p>One unsuspecting evening, about 9pm, my friend Eric offered me the chance to ride on his bicycle. Okay, so he didn’t offer, more that I begged and pleaded with him for an hour and then, like a weary parent, he gave in to placate me.</p>
<p>Eric is about 8 inches taller than me, so when I sat on his bike, I couldn’t reach the floor. This should have served as a warning sign to me but, as we all know, after a couple of gin and tonics, Bravado and his friend Stupidity become your allies. The wind was blowing through my hair as the bike smoothly made its way through the cobbled street. There was a canal to the right of me and a quaint row of shops to my left. It was really picturesque – I was living the Amsterdam dream. The sun was setting, the air was mild, and I was gliding like a swan. &#8220;Who needed stabilisers?&#8221; I merrily thought.</p>
<p>In the distance, I could hear Eric shouting manically for me to stop. He sounded very dramatic, so I did. No longer was the canal to the right of me. To the right of me was the cold, hard pavement. To the left, the sky. I had fallen off. Fast forward – after a few boozy tears, some lost dignity and a cup of chips for the brave soldier (that was me by the way) – I was home in bed. Turns out, I did need stabilisers.</p>
<h3>Looking Inside Myself</h3>
<p>One week passed and my side was still hurting. Common sense forced me to visit a doctor as a colleague had alarmingly pointed out that I might have punctured a lung and could be unwittingly bringing a slow, painful death upon myself. For a hypochondriac, this was like honey to a bear, and despite not being totally sure of her medical expertise, I hot-footed (hot-limped) it to the local doctor. The doctor sent me to get an x-ray.</p>
<p>The x-ray centre was weirdly situated off a junction on the motorway, but when I arrived, I was seen to very quickly so put the location out of my mind. However, due to the location, not everyone spoke English. Cue some major communication issues.</p>
<p>The radiographer came out of his room and called my name. He was pretty easy on the eye to say the least. He was probably about my age at 22 (I was once 22) and extremely tall and tanned with what I could only describe as edible honey-coloured hair. This rib injury was beginning to have its perks.</p>
<p>He ushered me into his room and motioned me to remove my top as he went out of the room to get something. This instruction did not seem strange to me – it was only natural: I had pain in my ribs and so he needed to x-ray the area. So I removed my jacket, tee shirt and bra, without giving it a second thought, and stood in the centre of the x-ray room in just my skinny jeans and Ugg boots.</p>
<p>Doctor Honey-Hair came back in the room holding some forms and upon seeing me and my bare breasts, made a strange face. I’ve seen that reaction before. We both looked at each other for a few moments, him wide-eyed and me blinking naively, wondering when the x-ray was actually going to happen.</p>
<p>In his best English, he tells me that we need to fill out some forms first and the x-ray will come later. So, he wasn’t actually motioning me to take my clothes off, he was motioning me to sit down.</p>
<p>He asks me a few questions. “Do you have a metal plate in your head?” I told him no, but I could see that he was thinking that I probably should get one.</p>
<p>He then asks if I am pregnant. My general reaction to anything remotely uncomfortable is to make jokes. Terrible, badly-timed and largely inappropriate jokes.  So, when he asked me if I was &#8220;with child&#8221;, I replied with, &#8220;Not yet, Doctor&#8221; and gave him a wink. A WINK? What was I thinking? What was he thinking?</p>
<p>My breasts and the facts were laid out bare for all to see. I had taken my top off and now I was trying to seduce the Doctor who had started to look a lot younger and more terrified.</p>
<p>I did my best to fill in the remainder of the paperwork in silence.</p>
<h3>Lessons learnt</h3>
<p>Surprisingly, post-x-ray mortification, my relationship with bikes has actually blossomed. My desire never to have to visit that x-ray centre of shame again has been an overwhelming motivator for becoming a less terrible – I would never say good – cyclist.</p>
<p>Oh, and the Uggs went in the bin.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/adjusting-to-the-bike-one-mamas-experience-of-getting-back-on-two-wheels/">Adjusting to the Bike: One Mama&#8217;s Experience of Getting Back on Two Wheels</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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		<title>S04E32: Sharing the Bike Path: Bikes and Scooters in Amsterdam</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/s04e32-sharing-the-bike-path-bikes-and-scooters-in-amsterdam/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Donna Bardsley]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 May 2017 00:03:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[scooters]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/s04e32-sharing-the-bike-path-bikes-and-scooters-in-amsterdam/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Bikes, bikes, everywhere! But what’s up with the scooters? We here at Amsterdam Mamas are big fans of biking in Amsterdam. It’s the way most of us get around with [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/s04e32-sharing-the-bike-path-bikes-and-scooters-in-amsterdam/">S04E32: Sharing the Bike Path: Bikes and Scooters in Amsterdam</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3>Bikes, bikes, everywhere! But what’s up with the scooters?</h3>
<p>We here at Amsterdam Mamas are big fans of biking in Amsterdam. It’s the way most of us get around with our kids and we think it’s one of the more special aspects of family life in the city (though maybe don’t ask us about it in a downpour with a bitter headwind). We also think it can be crazy and stressful, and a little alarming at times. Who thought it would be a good idea to allow scooters in the bike paths and why? And is it just our imagination, or are there really more and more bikes out there every day?</p>
<p>This episode is all about Amsterdam cycling: both the agony and the ecstasy of it. We talk to Henry Cutler, our go-to biking expert, about what makes Amsterdam biking so frustrating (<em>*cough*</em> scooters and tourists <em>*cough*</em>) and what makes it a joy (safety and infrastructure and, of course, babies on bikes!). Henry gives us the low-down on scooters in the bike lanes&nbsp;and explains why that scooter ban we keep hearing about hasn’t ever happened. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Topics we cover include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Why scooters are the biggest cycling issue in Amsterdam.</li>
<li>The surprising way scooters ended up in the bike lanes in the first place.</li>
<li>The logistics of changing the law vs enforcing the law.</li>
<li>Bicycle safety and whether it is dangerous to bike in Amsterdam.</li>
<li>Is it possible to have too many cyclists in the city?</li>
<li>The joys of biking as a parent in Amsterdam.</li>
<li>What, if any, laws and regulations apply to cycling with kids.</li>
<li>The two things every parent should make sure their bike is equipped with.</li>
</ul>
<p>The one thing we don’t talk about? Helmets. That’s a topic for another day and another episode. We do, however, offer a cute segment in which Katherine and her daughter&nbsp;Olivia attempt to count bikes in Vondelpark and quickly reach the limits of a&nbsp;3-year-old&#8217;s counting abilities. We also answer a listener question about bringing a grandparent from outside the EU to live in Amsterdam.</p>
</p>
<p>About our guest: Henry Cutler is the founder of <a href="http://Workcycles.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WorkCycles</a> and a cycling enthusiast. After moving to the Netherlands from the U.S., he became so enamored with the Dutch approach to cycling that he quit his corporate job and began building and designing bikes. He now sells his bikes, not just to Amsterdammers, but to customers all over the world from the WorkCycles&nbsp;in the Jordaan. You can find out more about Henry and&nbsp;read about all things cycling on his blog <a href="http://www.bakfiets-en-meer.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bakfiets En Meer</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>This is the final episode of our fourth season. We have big changes coming up, and we&#8217;re excited to&nbsp;introduce our new </strong><strong>co-host</strong><strong>, Nerissa Muijs, and sad to say goodbye to our podcast’s founder, Donna Bardsley. Katherine and Nerissa will be back in August with season five!</strong></p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/323092700&amp;color=ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false" width="100%"></iframe></p>
<h3>Shownotes:</h3>
<p><a href="http://Workcycles.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Workcycles</a></p>
<p><a href="http://ind.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dutch immigration information</a></p>
<p>Support Amsterdam Mamas by using the link <a href="http://booking.com/amsterdammamas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">booking.com/amsterdammamas</a> for your next holiday stay!</p>
<hr />
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<p><strong>Don&#8217;t forget to subscribe!</strong>&nbsp;You can find The Amsterdam Mamas Podcast in&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-amsterdam-mamas-podcast/id1044808142" target="_blank" rel="noopener">iTunes</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/amsterdam-mamas/the-amsterdam-mamas-podcast?refid=stpr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stitcher</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/amsterdam-mamas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Soundcloud</a>, or on your favorite podcast app.</p>
<p>For&nbsp;<strong>feedback</strong>,&nbsp;<strong>questions</strong>, or&nbsp;<strong>comments</strong>&nbsp;on this episode, visit our&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/theamsterdammamaspodcast" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook Page</a>&nbsp;or contact us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:podcast@amsterdam-mamas.nl">podcast@amsterdam-mamas.nl</a>.</p>
<hr />
<p><span style="font-size:11px;">Image use by permission from WorkCycles.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/s04e32-sharing-the-bike-path-bikes-and-scooters-in-amsterdam/">S04E32: Sharing the Bike Path: Bikes and Scooters in Amsterdam</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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		<title>13 Tips to Stop Bike Theft</title>
		<link>https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/13-tips-to-stop-bike-theft/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Deborah Nicholls-Lee]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Mar 2016 01:43:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bicycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life in Amsterdam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Mamas Recommend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[crime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[theft]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/13-tips-to-stop-bike-theft/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>It is estimated that an average of 26 bikes are stolen each day in Amsterdam. The aggravation, financial impact, and sense of violation that this can bring is clear from [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/13-tips-to-stop-bike-theft/">13 Tips to Stop Bike Theft</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>It is estimated that an average of <a href="http://www.nu.nl/amsterdam/4062000/26-fietsen-per-dag-gestolen-in-amsterdam.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">26 bikes are stolen each day</a> in Amsterdam. The aggravation, financial impact, and sense of violation that this can bring is clear from the many mamas&nbsp;who report their losses on our Facebook page. In response, we have rallied round with our top tips for reducing the risk of bike theft.&nbsp;</em></p>
<p><!--break--></p>
<h3>Our Top Tips for Deterring Bike Thieves</h3>
<p>1. Have at least two locks.</p>
<p>2<strong>.</strong> Always attach your bike to something fixed. Otherwise, thieves can simply lift it up and pop it in a van.</p>
<p>3. Put the air valve next to the rear lock. Though thieves may be able to bust open the lock, they will not want to risk deflating the tyre in the process.</p>
<p>4. Spend more on the lock than on the bike. If the bike is just for you and doesn’t need to transport the family, buy a tatty second-hand bike and an expensive lock.</p>
<p>5. Customise your bike so that it is easily identifiable and less marketable. A thief needs to be able to sell the bike on quickly; lurid spray paint, engravings, stickers, and crazy flower adornments will slow them down.</p>
<p>6. Lock your bike through the frame. Never lock through the wheel alone as it&nbsp;can be unscrewed and the bike released.</p>
<p>7. <a href="https://www.amsterdam.nl/parkeren-verkeer/fiets/fietsdepot/data-fiets-graveren/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get your bike engraved</a>. This is sometimes possible for bakfietsen too. &nbsp;</p>
<p>8. Install <a href="http://www.abus.com/uk/Mobile-Security/Bike-Safety-and-Security/Locks/Wall-Floor-Anchors" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wall or floor anchors</a> outside your home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>9. Splurge on a <a href="http://www.vindmijterug.nl/fiets/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GPS Bike Tracker</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>10. Try an ear-piercing <a href="https://www.vouchervandaag.nl/Fietsalarm-fiets-bromfiets-korting?nb=1&amp;utm_source=e-ngine&amp;utm_medium=e-mail&amp;utm_campaign=Bamboo+kussen+-+Erectiepillen+-+Waist+trainer+-+Sweater+jurk+-+Fietsalarm+-+eropuit" target="_blank" rel="noopener">theft alarm</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>11. File photographs of your bike, along with the purchase receipt and the bike’s make, frame number, and chip code (if it has one). This will make it easier to reclaim a stolen bike if found,&nbsp;or claim insurance if not.</p>
<h3>Bakfietsen</h3>
<p>All of the above and also&#8230;</p>
<p>12. Padlock the bike cover on in at least two places. If the thief has to damage the tent too much to release it, they will move on.</p>
<p>13.&nbsp;Buy the heaviest, longest chain you can carry. The potential inconvenience&nbsp;of losing ‘the family car’ to thieves makes it worth every penny.</p>
<hr />
<p><em><a href="http://www.amsterdam-mamas.nl/stories-tag/mamas-recommend">The Mamas Recommend</a>&nbsp;is a series generated from responses on our Facebook page from multiple sources.&nbsp;</em></p>
<hr />
<p>photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/29233640@N07/14679125496">Flickr</a> via <a href="http://www.photopin.com">PhotoPin</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl/articles/13-tips-to-stop-bike-theft/">13 Tips to Stop Bike Theft</a> appeared first on <a href="https://amsterdam-mamas.nl">Amsterdam Mamas</a>.</p>
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