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"When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments. Here, was a machine of precision and balance for the convenience of man. And (unlike subsequent inventions for man's convenience) the more he used it, the fitter his body became. Here, for once, was a product of man's brain that was entirely beneficial to those who used it, and of no harm or irritation to others. Progress should have stopped when man invented the bicycle."

Elizabeth West, Hovel in the Hills


"I feel I am entitled to my share of light heartedness and there is nothing wrong with enjoying one's self simply, like a boy."

Leo tolstoy, in response to criticism for learning to ride a bicycle at age 67