1 July 1996

Willem's Law

Willem postulates that all bicycles weigh thirteen kilograms. A cheap bike weighs twelve kilograms and only needs small lock and chain--weighing perhaps a kilogram--to discourage thieves. On the other hand, an expensive lightweight four kilogram cycle requires some nine pounds of chains, clamps, locks, and other security devices to dissuade criminals and bored children.

An extensive survey of Amsterdam provided no empirical evidence to refute Willem's hypothesis.