Often, columns are humorous, original, symbolic, enlightening (and so on) stories that make you wonder: Did this really happen? However, this one is real, one-to-one, one hundred percent: A great spring morning recently, mild temperature, some sun, ideal for getting on your bike, towards the office. Then the shock: The rear tire is stolen!

Uwe Marx

Editor in business.

  • Follow I follow

A pitiful sight, such a bike with only one tire. Well, it doesn't help, let's go to the subway, a shame on such a beautiful day. Lo and behold, on the way there, someone mounts a very familiar rear wheel on his bike in a quiet corner. A quick note to the stranger: I know the tire, it was stolen from me nearby, bring it on! The answer, suspiciously meek: "No, no, it's all mine, bike and tires, honestly." Never in my life! But what to do if the other person denies? A trick helps: "Okay, how much?" For the stolen tire, logical. The answer ("five euros") comes quickly, only then does it dawn on him that it is a confession.

A thief with a guilty conscience

This is followed by: a story about drug addiction (a long time ago) and prison (also), a credible guilty conscience ("I'm really so sorry"), big thanks (that the police stay out of the game) and useful tips for locking bicycles ("Never just chain the frame, always the rear wheel as well"). Meanwhile, he voluntarily trots back to the recently amputated bicycle, skilfully reinstalls the rear tire if desired, takes the five euros and moves away. His name is Werner – and no offense. It's okay, Werner. Five euros for an unexpected happy ending, a friendly conversation despite everything and a rarely lively ride to work. Doesn't feel too much. Maybe it's spring.