Community and Connection of Biking in NYC
In the bustling streets of New York City, where every corner holds a story and every encounter is an opportunity, there’s Cornelius Minor, navigating his daily life with his trusty companion, the Benno Boost eBike. This family’s eBike isn’t just a mode of transportation, but a conduit for connection, exploration, and possibility.
With two daughters in tow, Cornelius graciously allowed us to tag along for the morning drop-off routine. As we traversed the streets of Brooklyn, we discussed topics ranging from infrastructure to what makes a thriving city and how access to good transportation options makes a huge impact on the people who live there. It quickly became evident that for Cornelius, his eBike wasn’t just a way to get around—it was a reflection of who he was. He effortlessly blended family duties with his love for making a difference and teaching others. For Cornelius, the eBike wasn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It was a way to show his dedication to sustainability, connecting with his community, and embracing a well-rounded lifestyle.
Cornelius shed light on how his eBike enables him to explore the New York City in ways he wouldn’t otherwise be able to without an electric bicycle. He explains how although the city has public transportation, it might not be so easy to reach certain places as quickly or efficiently as he can when he bikes there. It allows him the possibility of easily transporting his family around the city and gives them access to everything that the city provides including swim classes, libraries, and museums without having to worry about the limitations that public transport sometimes has.
“I can bike my kids anywhere in the city. My kids have access to every museum, not just the ones the subway goes. Even just like the idea of the natural beauty of New York City— that’s not a term that people use often. They don’t see the city through a car window. They see the city from a human’s eye view.”
He really showed us how powerful it can be to lead by example and get involved with groups who share your interests, whether you’re biking with a crew or lending a hand in educational projects. By speaking up for bike-friendly policies and really getting behind childhood literacy programs, he proved how coming together and sharing our stories can spark some really important conversations and encourage folks to try out new ways of living. And his commitment to these causes didn’t just make a difference locally – getting passionate and involved in our communities can have a big impact on the world around us.
Perhaps most inspiring was Cornelius’s dedication to instilling a sense of possibility in future generations. By introducing his daughters to the joys of biking and fostering a mindset of exploration and curiosity, Cornelius empowers them to envision a world where unconventional choices lead to boundless opportunities. Through his own journey of self-discovery and advocacy, Cornelius represents the transformative power of resilience, compassion, and community in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
In a city defined by its diversity, resilience, and boundless energy, Cornelius epitomized the essence of creativity and unity that fuels vibrant communities. His dedication to nurturing a culture of opportunity and belonging served as a poignant reminder that progress starts with small steps—like pushing a pedal.
Check out Cornelius's Benno Boost
THE BOOST DOES MORE, SO YOU CAN DO MORE. The Benno Boost, with Etility® Design, is up for ...