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Sir Paul Smith and Boris Johnson feature in photography exhibition of London's most stylish cyclists

It's the London Mayor as style icon on the prototype 'Boris Bike'...

City Cycle Style, a new show by fashion photographer Horst A. Friedrichs will be on display at The Royal Exchange in the City of London from 28th September - 29th October, the show shouldn't be confused with the event of  the same name  which ran last year in the City also to celebrate cycling style and fashion and to raise money for good causes.

The photographer who is an avid cyclist himself has captured 40 of London’s 'most stylish' cyclists on their chosen bikes, Sir Paul Smith opting for a custom Mercian in his own custom paint scheme and less likely fashion leader Boris Johnson riding the original prototype for the London hire scheme that came to be known as 'Boris Bikes.'

"From fashionistas to financiers, an increasing number of Londoners are taking to the saddle," says Friedrichs. "The bicycle is now being seen as a reflection of your own personality and fashion choices rather than a simple way to get around. I hope the exhibition will show London exactly how you can ride in style and encourage more people to start cycling."

Friedrichs is working on a book 'Cycle Style' due to be published in Spring 2012.

OK, he's not 'on' it but we all know the Mayor of London rides a bike.

Whether or not Boris Johnson is your or anyone's idea of a 'stylish' cyclist, what cannot be denied is his willingness to  jump on a bike and get everywhere in whatever he is wearing for work which is surely the best possible and cheerful advertisement for utility cycling in London.

The bike is another story and we can only dream of how stylish London's Barclays Hire Scheme bikes might have looked if the prototype is anything to go by. 'The Original Boris Bike', engraved with Boris Johnson’s signature, is due to be auctioned at a swanky launch event for the City Cycle Style exhibition to raise funds for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal 2011.

City Cycle Style is free to everyone and will appear in a 24 hour outdoor gallery on the east side of The Royal Exchange from 28 September – 29 October 2011. The Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LR is located between Cornhill and Threadneedle Street, close to Bank Tube Station.

Details: www.theroyalexchange.com

Donna Ida Thornton, owner and founder of Chelsea denim boutique Donna Ida, rides a 2010 Specialized Globe Carmel 3.

"Commuting is part of life - everyone does it, so you may as well do it in style! My wardrobe for travelling is a pair of skinny jeans with super high heels, not forgetting the crucial travelling accessory - oversized sunglasses."

Hazel Robinson, fashion stylist and one half of British label House of Jazz, rides a Bisou by Tokyobike.

Paul A Young, owner and founder of Paul A Young Fine Chocolates, rides a Gazelle Toer Populair from The Bicycle Man.

Jonathan Kelsey, shoe designer, rides a Classic Tokyobike.

“I've always loved cycling around London. The summer months are amazing. Once you know where you are going it's quite possibly the fastest transport in town too.”

Jonny Woo, Queen of London’s drag scene, rides a ‘Chic’ 3-speed Dutchie.

The Rt. Hon The Lord Mayor of the City of London Alderman Michael Bear with a 1980 Gentleman’s Raleigh Superbe.

“City Cycle Style celebrates what is truly great about our Capital, its diversity and individuality. The exhibition will showcase London’s most stylish cyclists, including myself, whilst also raising funds for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.

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4 comments

Avatar
bikeandy61 | 12 years ago
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Blimey who would have thought that Borris could look the least like a vagrant. Well done Sir Paul Smith, we applaud you.

Avatar
Matthewjb | 12 years ago
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Quote:

we can only dream of how stylish London's Barclays Hire Scheme bikes might have looked if the prototype is anything to go by.

That bike appears to have a Brooks saddle and grips. I doubt the Boris bikes would have had the same.

Avatar
nick_rearden replied to Matthewjb | 12 years ago
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Matthewjb wrote:
Quote:

we can only dream of how stylish London's Barclays Hire Scheme bikes might have looked if the prototype is anything to go by.

That bike appears to have a Brooks saddle and grips. I doubt the Boris bikes would have had the same.

Indeed and I'm sure that's why they ended up as they did but that's why it's a dream.

Avatar
Paul M replied to Matthewjb | 12 years ago
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Matthewjb wrote:
Quote:

we can only dream of how stylish London's Barclays Hire Scheme bikes might have looked if the prototype is anything to go by.

That bike appears to have a Brooks saddle and grips. I doubt the Boris bikes would have had the same.

How long do you imagine a Brooks saddle would have lasted on a BorisBike before getting nicked?

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