RIP Paul Reubens, creator of bicycle-loving character Pee-wee Herman

Paul Reubens, a.k.a. Pee-wee Herman, passed away earlier this week in a California hospital at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer he kept private.

“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I have been facing the last six years,” he wrote in a Facebook post released to the public upon his death. “I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, family and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.”

Paul Reubens was like no one else – a brilliant and original comedian who made kids and their parents laugh at the same time. He never forgot a birthday and shared his genuine delight for silliness with everyone he met. My family and I will miss him.

— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) July 31, 2023

Reubens was many things to many people, including a prominent force in bicycle culture thanks to his character Pee-wee Herman and his love of riding his bicycle.

In the annals of pop culture history, there are few characters as endearing and whimsical as Pee-wee Herman. A quirky man-child with a bowtie, red bowler hat, and infectious laughter, Pee-wee captured the hearts of audiences worldwide during the 1980s. One of the most iconic elements of his adventures was undoubtedly his trusty bicycle, which became a symbol of youthful exuberance, joy, and freedom.

Herman’s bicycle is a bright red Schwinn DX cruiser modified with all the trimmings of a classic city bike with a dash of whimsy on the side — high-rise handlebars, fenders, chain guard, rear panniers, and some sweet streamers flying in the wind from the hand grips.

Pee-wee Herman’s bicycle made its grand entrance in the 1985 film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, which was directed by Tim Burton. In the movie, Pee-wee embarks on a cross-country journey to retrieve his stolen bicycle, a prized possession that he cherishes more than anything else in the world. This quest leads him on a series of comedic and zany adventures, capturing the hearts of audiences young and old.

Pee-Wee Herman said “Bicycle rights!” pic.twitter.com/CdNJDK0RjK

— Library School Dropout (@chi_geek) July 31, 2023

Since its debut, Pee-wee’s bicycle has left an indelible mark on pop culture. The red cruiser has been the subject of numerous references, parodies, and homages in various forms of media. Pee-wee’s childlike persona and his beloved bicycle have inspired countless artists, writers, and filmmakers to create characters and stories that embrace the notion of embracing one’s unique spirit and finding joy in simple pleasures.

Actor and comedian Paul Reubens brought the character to life with such genuine enthusiasm and charm that audiences couldn’t help but fall in love with him and his bicycle

We aren’t saying that Pee-wee single-handedly revived the whole idea of adults riding bicycles for fun and the importance of doing things that make you happy and feel young. But it didn’t hurt.

Pee-wee Herman’s bicycle is more than just a prop from a cult classic film; it could be seen to represent a timeless message of staying true to oneself, embracing individuality, and finding joy in the simple things in life.

The bicycle currently sits on display at the Bicycle Museum of America in New Bremen, Ohio.

Hopefully, looking back on the legacy of Pee-wee Herman and his cherished bicycle, maybe we can carry on some of that same spirit of adventure and freedom that only a bicycle could provide.