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I have ridden the vast majority of RAGBRAIs and buses have been in the background of my perception since they started appearing. some 20 years ago.. The first bus that I really remember was the ME OFF bus (Flip, Mary, Carrie, et.al.) circa 1980. Team Cockroach is probably only slightly younger and both teams are on at least their second bus. I may be a bit slow, but I finally started taking a critical look in 1999 and decided that I wanted to investigate the art form further by “collecting” the buses photographically. This web page presents my current collection.
I find myself surprised by the number and sophistication of the medium. Many buses have some sort of roof deck and a number of the platforms double as patios. There are spoilers protecting cargo on the decks as well as spiral staircases leading to the top. Graphics may be applied with a brush or an airbrush and may include advertising. There are large water tanks for showers.
One can tell people about RAGBRAI, but there can be no comprehension without the actual experience. The buses are significant in the statement they make about how thoroughly the ride is ingrained into the lives of the participants.
Please feel free to correct or add to the information posted. There are several buses that have no team names, or in which the graphics are hard to read. I would also be more than happy to add any information about your group to the pictures. Relevant information would include the name of the club if distinct from the team name, general location of the team, a brief history, more information on the features of the buses, or url/e-mail addresses of contacts. Additional pictures would be welcome.
I am Richard Thompson. Contact me at
[email protected]
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