The Red Light Posture Series

Waiting for red lights to change to green is an integral part of a daily cycling life in Copenhagen. There are, however, so many different ways to perform this simple act.

I saw this lady, above, the other day and noticed that women over a certain age - let's say about 50 - often get off their bike at red lights and stand next to it until the light changes. I'm assuming this was the acceptable way to do it back in the day and it is so lovely to see it on the bike lanes. So relaxed. Perfect for The Slow Bicycle Movement, actually.

So I thought I'd have a look through my archives and find a series of different Red Light Postures. So here's the question: How do you wait for the light to change?

Tip Toes - a classic stance for those who can't be bothered hopping off the saddle or those who prefer leaning to the left and therefore cannot enjoy the comfort of the raised curb.



The Copenhagen Straddle - Feet firmly on the ground, bum off the saddle. No hurry at all, just planted solidly at the stop line.



No Hurry Straightbackishness - Classic Copenhagen. No tense muscles, just waiting calmly and quietly for the light to change.



Take a Load Off - there are often places for you to rest your feet while waiting. Rubbish bins or roadworks. Nice and casual.



Curbstand - The curbs are there for your safety and, if necessary, for your convenience.




Half-Ready Pedal Placement - You're relaxed but you have one foot in position. There's no stress, but you're as ready as you'll ever be for the changing of the light.



Relax and Lean - Typically a male posture. The chap in front combines it with The Copenhagen Straddle.



Leaning Left or Right? - a whole other ball game: if you prefer to lean, which way do you lean? And does the direction you lean in reflect your political... leanings?


Cargo Bike Casual - This entire post is rather irrelevant for cargo bike users. :-)