Watch With My Own Two Wheels

With My Own Two Wheels is a 2011 documentary film produced by Pedal Born Pictures that highlights the transformative power of bicycles in various communities around the world. Through a series of interviews and footage, the film showcases how bicycles have helped people overcome poverty, illness, and other challenges to achieve their dreams.

The film focuses on four main stories - Fred, a coffee farmer in Rwanda who uses his bicycle to transport his crops and improve his standard of living, Melody, a young girl in Ghana who bikes to school every day, Carlos, a disabled man in Guatemala who uses a specially designed bike to navigate his community, and Sharkey, a bike messenger in California who finds joy and purpose through cycling.

Fred's story provides insight into how a bicycle can have a significant impact on a community's economic growth. As a coffee farmer, Fred relies on his crop for income, but struggles to transport it to market due to inadequate roads and transportation options. With his bicycle, he can transport more coffee at a faster rate, improving his profit margins and helping his family escape poverty.

Melody's story showcases how a bicycle can improve access to education, particularly for girls. In Ghana, it is common for girls to drop out of school due to the long distances and safety concerns associated with walking to school. Melody's bike enables her to get to school safely and on time, giving her the opportunity to achieve her academic goals.

Carlos' story highlights the importance of bicycle accessibility for disabled individuals. In Guatemala, where there are few resources for the disabled community, Carlos had resigned himself to a life of isolation and dependence on others. However, with the help of a specially designed bike, he gains newfound freedom and independence, allowing him to participate in his community and pursue his passions.

Finally, Sharkey's story illustrates how cycling can be a source of joy and community. As a bike messenger, Sharkey has found a sense of purpose and fulfillment through his work, but also through the camaraderie and support of his fellow cyclists.

Throughout the film, these stories are woven together with interviews from experts in the cycling community, including advocates, engineers, and designers. The film also explores the history of bicycles and their impact on society, including their role in the women's suffrage movement and their use as a tool for social justice.

With My Own Two Wheels is more than just a film about cycling - it's a celebration of the human spirit and the power of determination. It shows how bicycles can transform lives, communities, and even entire countries, and inspires viewers to consider the impact they can have on the world by choosing to ride a bike.

With My Own Two Wheels is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 42 minutes.