Henan 100K Cyclists, One Shared Passion : A Dumpling Sensation

 

A new trend has swept across Henan Province, China: young cyclists, primarily university students, are embarking on epic nighttime bike rides. What started as a spontaneous adventure has evolved into a full-blown phenomenon, captivating the nation and sparking both admiration and concern.

It all began with a group of four friends who decided to cycle from Zhengzhou, the provincial capital, to Kaifeng, a historic city famous for its delicious soup dumplings. Their late-night journey, fueled by youthful energy and a desire for a culinary adventure, quickly went viral on social media.

Inspired by their daring feat, countless students have since followed suit, forming large groups to undertake the 50-kilometer journey. The hashtag "Youth has no price, night ride to Kaifeng has it" has become a rallying cry for these young cyclists.

While the trend has brought joy and camaraderie to many, it has also led to a series of problems. As the number of participants surged, traffic congestion and safety concerns emerged. Large groups of cyclists often blocked roads and rode recklessly, endangering themselves and other road users.

In response to these issues, local authorities in both Zhengzhou and Kaifeng have implemented temporary measures to curb the influx of cyclists. Bike lanes have been closed, and bike-sharing companies have restricted usage outside designated zones. Additionally, public appeals have been made to cyclists to prioritize safety and avoid large group rides.