MAAPACCINO at MAAP LaB Amsterdam
Coffee, fellowship, and cold-weather cycling
Last weekend, despite the less-than-ideal forecast, 13 intrepid cyclists gathered at MAAP LaB Amsterdam for a 70km social ride. Undeterred by the biting cold and the threat of rain, we set off, starting our day with a much-needed caffeine boost. Obbe, the legend, worked his magic behind the counter, serving up what might just be the best coffee in town. With warm hands (for now) and high spirits, we hit the road.
A chilly start
The morning began with frost-covered roads and temperatures hovering just above freezing. The crisp air nipped at our faces as we navigated the icy patches with care. However, the cold soon gave way to rain, and what started as a frosty ride turned into a wet one. As the rain poured, the chill intensified, making it feel well below 0°C.
New faces, same great vibes
One of the highlights of this ride was the mix of familiar faces and newcomers. It's always exciting to welcome fresh energy into the group, and this ride was no exception. Conversations flowed as easily as the kilometers ticked by, with laughter cutting through the sound of raindrops and tires on wet tarmac.
Sceninc (and industrial) highlights
Our route took us through some unique landmarks, including the iconic Tata Steel plant and the impressive Sluizencomplex IJmuiden. The stark industrial landscapes juxtaposed with the surrounding natural beauty created an interesting and memorable backdrop for the ride.
Rain? Fun day!
Despite the challenging weather, the group’s energy remained high. There’s something special about sharing such moments with like-minded individuals who understand the joys and struggles of cycling. The rain might have soaked us, but it couldn’t dampen our spirits. By the time we rolled back into Amsterdam, there was no doubt in anyone’s mind that it had been a ride to remember.
This 70km ride reminded us of the power of community and the joy of pushing through tough conditions together. It’s rides like these that stay with you—not because they were easy, but because they were shared. Here’s to more miles, more coffee, and more unforgettable memories with the MAAP LaB Amsterdam crew!
