Belle Bicyclettes

By Eva Medoff, April 14th, 2010

Biking in the city can be a terrifying prospect—especially when spandex and performance fleece is involved. That’s why Brooklyn resident Julie Hirschfeld opened a store with a different kind of bike—the kind that brings to mind yellow ribbons, baskets of flowers and the South of France. Well, we’re still in New York. But these old-fashioned, downright romantic bicycles will bring you straight to Paris or Copenhagen.

While some subscribe to the belief that everything is done better in Europe, we’re at least prepared to admit they do things better with bikes. Inspired by the leisurely bicycles from that continent, Tribeca’s new shop Adeline Adeline offers elegantly designed two wheelers in a multitude of pastel shades. Stop by the shop (147 Reade St.) to check out the specimens or to get a private one-hour appointment and the chance to try out the bikes. And if you do end up leaving with one of the vintage-inspired bicycles, don’t forget to stop for a baguette for your basket.

Clicky