Pedals and Pride: Bikes, Culture and Craft in Tamale

In Tamale, bicycles aren’t just a way to get around, they carry pride, freedom, and tradition. From playful rides with a lover to delivering goods, a bike is a life companion. Known locally as the ‘iron horse,’ it holds deep cultural and emotional meaning for many.

In the past, men feared bicycles might give women too much freedom. Today, both men and women ride for work, school, and family errands. While the cost of bikes can limit ownership, the independence they offer is valued by all, shifting social norms on the road.

New bicycles are costly, often beyond reach for many. Families pool resources to buy a single bike, which becomes a shared lifeline for errands, school runs, and farming. The bicycle’s role in the household is not just practical, it’s a symbol of family resilience.

Cycling to school is a rite of passage in Tamale. Parents teach kids to ride early, knowing it’s the key to getting to class, markets, and friends. Bicycles turn everyday chores into adventures and play, sparking a love for speed, skill, and friendly competition.

In Tamale, no bike part goes to waste. Mechanics and artisans repurpose wheels, bearings, and chains for new uses — from crafting hunting tools to market trolleys. It’s a culture of resourcefulness that turns old bikes into instruments of everyday innovation.

Bicycles Forever documents this rich cycling heritage while spotlighting its continued role in Tamale’s identity. It urges city leaders to protect cycling culture with better infrastructure and keep two-wheel traditions alive for future generations.