[basil ransome-davies]

You've heard of urban cowboys, pal? Well, I'm the urban bike,
A saddle, wheels and handlebars for hire.
You fancy good times, sailor, want to ride me where you like?
Flash plastic and your wish is my desire.
I know the scenes – the scams – the score – from Acton to Brick Lane,
A tough, sophisticated bicyclette
Who's felt the rumps of wannabes and dealers of cocaine.
The waterfront? I cover it, you bet.
I've seen bent coppers trouser bungs and royals lose their rag.
I've heard the chimes at midnight more than most.
The London vibe is paranoid but London is my bag,
So let me be your streetwise city host.
I liberate the flâneur with my mobile savoir-faire.
I'm a pedalled, paid-for escort, to be frank.
My pride's my versatility: I fit in anywhere.
My shame is that I'm branded by a bank.