November 2nd is International Singlespeed Day.
Did you all know that? I’m sure most of you didn’t. And that’s no surprise, considering it was only decided last year (lol).
Around this time last year, PAUL COMPONENT boss Paul announced at an internal company meeting, "November 2nd is International Singlespeed Day!" Apparently, all the Paul employees looked at him like, "Wait, who said that?"
According to Paul, that day is his and his friend Amanda’s birthday, and it was her idea. So everyone just said, "Well, why not?" and that’s how this commemorative day was decided.
Paul’s staff member Travis, with whom we at Circles have had a close relationship for a long time, wasn't quite sure what to do, so he just started calling frame builders and friends, saying:
"Hey, November 2nd is Paul’s birthday, and I want everyone to ride a singlespeed. You in?"
Of course, everyone said "Sure."
When the magical day arrived, people rode their singlespeeds—either with friends or on their own—and shared the experience on Instagram with the hashtag #InternationalSingleSpeedDay, showing off their cool bikes, celebrating Paul and Amanda’s birthday, and having a great time together.
Let's ride our singlespeeds again this year to celebrate Paul's birthday!
So, we’re doing it again this year!
I just got the word from Travis at Paul’s!
All you singlespeed lovers in Japan, be sure to post on Instagram with the #InternationalSingleSpeedDay hashtag! Apparently, there will even be prizes for the best posts!
What? You don’t have a singlespeed bike?
Well, go ahead and zip-tie your shifter, remove the battery from your derailleur, or just hop on your grandpa’s beach cruiser—there are no rules, so get creative!
Be careful, though—you might just realize in the process that you don't actually need the latest drivetrain to enjoy cycling!