It only makes sense that Talking Heads frontman David Byrne arrived at the biggest fashion and art event of the year on a bike. Unlike many of his counterparts, he did not find himself behind the wheel of a large automobile. Byrne is a longtime bike commuter and recreational rider. He often preaches the benefits of biking and encourages everyone to ride, even if it’s on a road to nowhere.
In a once in a lifetime move, Byrne arrived at the Met on what looked to be a titanium twin top tube Budnitz single speed with a Gates belt drive. Can’t risk grease lines on that perfect white suit. Also of note, a handsome bell, wooden fenders, and a basket where Byrne put his unnecessary car placard. Despite America’s obsession with car culture, Byrne is optimistic that people will eventually give up cars for bikes because of the ease of getting around on them, especially in cities. He’s known to travel the world with a bike, and rides as much as possible while on tour.
Byrne even wrote a book about riding a bike in various places around the globe. He loves that the bike allows people to interact in a way that’s lost with other forms of transportation. As he pedals he notices things—it’s the perfect pace for observation.
The Met Gala’s theme this year was, “Karl Lagerfield: A Line of Beauty,” in honor of the late Chanel designer. Each year guests vie for the most extreme entrance, and this year was no exception, with strange overtones. Though his move was surprisingly simple, Byrne may have taken the award this year.
Same as it ever was—Byrne proves once again that there’s no place worth going if you can’t bring a bike.
Micah Ling is a freelance writer who lives in the mountains of Colorado. She splits her free time between mountain biking and trail running.
