For Zhao Weixin, a former senior engineer at Flying Pigeon, the sight of his son sweating it out in a spin class is perplexing.

Once a representative of the company that presented a bicycle model to former US president George HW Bush, the 70-year-old takes immense pride in his long and illustrious career in the bicycle industry.

Zhao has witnessed the evolution of cycling in China firsthand. What began as a practical means of transportation has transformed into a lifestyle symbol — encompassing social connections, fashion, and fitness. This transformation of bicycle functions mirrors the thriving economy of China over the past 75 years, while also highlighting the altering values between generations.

"Times have truly changed," Zhao reflects. "Our entire country has developed. As long as the Chinese people work hard, they can achieve great things."

Discover more of Zhao's story in the first episode of Journey to Joy, a National Day special series from China Daily's mini-documentary series, Life Is.