Today under gloomy skies and cool temps, about 150 or so well-dressed Portlanders of all ages took part in our first Tweed Ride. Given the amount of splendid outfits and old English bikes, it’s almost as if this is a ride Portland has been waiting for for years.
We gathered under the neo-classical arches and on the cobblestones of Ankeny Plaza — a location that fit well with the pipes, vests, flasks, hunting caps, knickers, and jackets. Besides all the fantastic tweed and finery, the ride was also a chance to show old antique bikes. Ed Rae, the North American rep for Brompton, decided to leave his folder home for this ride and opted instead for his vintage Raleigh. “I thought it was more in keeping with the spirit of the ride.”
One person said they thought it was the “Tweet” ride and showed up with their smartphone at the ready (just kidding, but couldn’t resist the joke).
After showing off outfits and bikes, we rolled up to Overlook House in North Portland where tea and biscuits were shared. The ride then shoved off to Laurelhurst Park in Southeast for a fashion show and ended up back downtown for a showing of Les Triplettes de Belleville. (My lady and I didn’t make it to the fashion show or the movie… if you did, we’d love to hear a report in the comments below).
Good times and lots of cheerio with friends old and new. And my oh my, you all looked absolutely lovely! Browse the full photo gallery or sit back and watch the slideshow below.