A stark, pure-white bicycle stands facing Old Highway 218 South near the
Johnson County Fairgrounds. It's an emotional tribute to extraordinary Iowa City cyclist Dave Schuldt.
In the bicycling world, this is known as a “ghost bike,” a somber and respectful way to both honor a fallen biker and remind motorists to watch out for cyclists and share the road.
Although there are now said to be hundreds of such ghost bike memorials nationwide, this might be only the first or second in the immediate Iowa City area.
It was near this spot two years ago this month that Schuldt, 83,
was struck from behind by a minivan while he was doing what he enjoyed most—riding his Klein bike. He did not survive.
“That bike was the love of his life,” said Sandra, Schuldt's wife of 32 years.
The couple lived at Oaknoll Retirement Community, but Dave Schuldt still rode solo to Hills and back almost every day. He was on the return trip when the accident took place.