The persistent haze that blanketed much of northern China this winter has made many residents aware of the damaging effects of car exhaust on air quality. Since March, numerous netizens have launched initiatives, starting with small lifestyle changes such as green travel and driving one day less per week. From advocacy to action, many citizens are now consciously contributing to environmental protection in small ways. In addition to driving less, taking public transport, and walking to work, many have dusted off their long-unused bicycles and plan to ride through scenic spots during this upcoming Qingming holiday.
Mr. Sun, a resident, said he plans to cycle with his child to Baodu Village during the Qingming holiday to see the peach blossoms. On one hand, it’s a way to stretch their muscles after a lazy winter, and on the other, it’s a chance to build the child’s perseverance. “Riding along in the spring breeze, enjoying the scenery as we go, taking a break by the roadside when tired, and shouting out toward the fields—it feels like we’ve rediscovered our youth.”
As low-carbon cycling grows in popularity, business at high-end bicycle shops is booming. According to the owner of a high-end bicycle shop on Dongfeng Road, as the weather improves, more and more people are coming to choose bikes each day, and over the past two years, the demand for bicycles has been rising along with the growing number of cycling enthusiasts.
Currently, the price of mountain bikes ranges from just over 1,000 yuan to upwards of 20,000 yuan, with models priced between 2,000 and 3,000 yuan being the mainstream in the market. “Although the prices of high-end mountain bikes have gone up, it hasn’t affected sales. Cycling has now become a new lifestyle for many residents.”
Reporters learned that for the upcoming Qingming holiday, nearby destinations such as Fenglong Mountain, Baodu Village, the Botanical Garden, and Zhaozhou Bridge, as well as farther spots like Fuxi Terrace and Xibaipo, are all popular choices for cyclists. Industry insiders advise that when city dwellers go cycling for the first time this spring, they should choose their destinations wisely, preferably places where the ride takes about two hours to avoid excessive fatigue. For longer routes, higher-quality bikes are required, so it’s best to ride a mountain bike. Additionally, routes with many turns or steep slopes are suitable for more experienced cyclists, while beginners should ideally be accompanied by seasoned riders.