Dan O’s Recent Comments

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  Need to start somewhere

  Yeah - 30 bikes - big deal.  I agree.

  However, with something like 1% of people using bikes for transportation - no way can we expect a large scale infrastructure to be put in place - without a need first.

  You create the need by getting more people on bikes through programs like this.  Its a semi-lame first shot - true.

  But imagine multiple small attempts like this in many cities.  A free pool of maybe 100 bikes to start.

  This is more feasible then dreaming about major cities in the U.S. turning into Amsterdam overnight.

  When gas hits $5 a gallon or so, I think you'll see more interest in bike commuting and other ways of getting around....On Small-scale bike-share program to come to Capitol Hill posted 1 year, 8 months ago 4 Responses

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  Fit cyclists on hybrids?

  In general, you won't find "fit" cyclists riding hybrids.  For someone really into cycling itself, hybrids defeat the whole purpose of riding - the great feeling of moving under your own power.

  There's also a cycling culture and social aspect that hybrids will never fit into.

  Like I mentioned earlier though, I think hybrids are awesome for the folks who just want to get from point A to point B without (or minimize) the physical aspect.  It's a cool and valid concept.

  As far as enclosing a two wheeler for protection - an interesting idea, but one that will be a turn off for most two wheeled fans.  As a bicyclist and (ex?) motorcyclist, the "protection" is the agility of two wheels and the abiliy to scan ahead and react.  That's part of the fun.

   

  Gabba Gabba Hey

  On People-powered transit makes you happy posted 2 years, 5 months ago 17 Responses

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  Electric bikes are an option

  I agree - electric bikes are a great option for people with little or no interest in the physical aspect of getting around by bike.

  You won't however, keep up with the "racers".  A real racer I'm not, but have cruised past a few hybrid bikes in the past.  They seem pretty slow overall.

  A fairly fit cyclist can average 15 - 20 MPH for a few hours.  You're not going touch that with a hybrid.  Plus, I get to work on a bowl of Cheerios and a banana.  :)

  Still - I'm all for the hybrid option.  Not for me, but can see the benefit for others.  This discussion has gotten me interested in doing a little research on electric bikes.  Speed, range, cost, etc.

  Thanks.

  Gabba Gabba Hey

  On People-powered transit makes you happy posted 2 years, 6 months ago 17 Responses

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  Biking - try it.....

  Interesting comments - a few responses from me - Bike Dork and commuter:

  I'm lucky - I live in a moderate climate, fairly progressive city - Seattle - where quite a few people ride.

  My place of employment provides a secure bike room, showers, and an emergency drive home program.  After 4 years, I've never used the work shower or ride home program - never needed it.

  People who don't ride think you arrive at work a sweaty mess.  Of course, everyone is different, but it's not the big problem people expect it to be.  I shower right out of bed, then ride in.  Sounds nutty, but works for me.  Other people I know, shower after they arrive at work.  Whatever works for you.

  I do ride in bike clothes, then change at work.  I work in a "business casual" enviornment.  I keep a few pair of pants, shoes and other items at work.  I carry a fresh shirt, underwear, socks, lunch, cell phone, reading material - and assorted other crap in a large bicycle messenger bag.

  I change clothes in my cubicle at work - loopy, eh?  Takes about 3 minutes and have yet to be caught with my pants down.  Not recommended for everyone, but saves the hassle of changing the in bathroom or shower area.

  As far as being "too old" to bike commute - guess that's a state of mind and current physical condition.  I'm closing in on 46 years old, so not exactly a kid anymore.  I know people in their 50s and 60s who bike commute also.

  Picking up groceries and other items is possible.  Bags and baskets for the bike are available.  Backpacks and messenger bags work also.  Bike trailers can also hold an amazing amount of stuff - including kids.  My 3 year old daughter loves riding in the trailer.

  As mentioned, bike commuting can actually save time - since it can replace other forms of excercise.  There's a gym located in my work buidling.  I can't help but laugh at the row of cars heading into the parking garage at 5:00 PM - people hitting the gym on the way home - as I'm beginning my ride home.

  When I arrive at work - I feel great.  The mental and physical benefits of getting two rounds of excercise per day can't be beat.  Then add in the money and potential time savings - plus the good it does for the planet - can see why dedicated bike commuters come across as zealots.

  Still, it's not for everyone.  If you don't like the outdoors, just flat out hate excercise, have the "Highway to Hell" commute route, kids to pick up, etc. - it may not work.  I think for many people though, it could work if you gave it a shot.

  Even bumping up the amount of people bike commuting just a few percent - would make a difference - no?

  Gabba Gabba Hey

  On People-powered transit makes you happy posted 2 years, 6 months ago 17 Responses

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  Bike commuting can work here also

  I've read similar facts about the Netherlands and how bike friendly is it.  I also have a friend who lived in Amsterdam for a few years and experienced it.  A very cool setup and something to admire for sure.

  I've bike commuted on and off for over 20 years, the last 4 years or so - quite a bit.  I commute 17 miles one way from Kenmore to downtown Seattle.  34 miles a day, 3 - 5 days per week.  I do slack off some during the winter - then crank it up the rest of the year.  On a yearly basis, I now ride more then drive - to work anyway.  

  To some, probably sounds like a big deal - it's not.  It takes me about an hour each way, not much longer then driving.  Driving on a normal traffic day takes 35 - 45 minutes, some days an hour.  Plus pay to park, fuel, and pollution - you know the story.  After bike commuting for awhile, sitting in traffic seems even more tortuous then usual.

  I'm lucky since about 90% of my current bike commute is on the Burke-Gilman trail.  The BG is a well used regional trail that allows off street riding.  I'm convinced if more trails like this existed, more people would commute by bike.  The side of road "painted bike paths" are still better then nothing, since they do remind motorists that bikes exist.  However, the off-street bike paths are much more inviting and nicer to use.

  You don't need to be a hard core rider with an expensive bike and racer clothes to commute - although I'm guilty on all those counts.  If you live within 10 miles of work, pick out the quietest route possible and give it a shot.  Use the bike you currently own, or pick up something used.  Carry your stuff in a messenger bag or backpack.  No need to go crazy with equipment, experiment to see what works best for you.  No need to be a hero and ride everyday.  Try a few days a week and mix up with using other forms of transportation - rack on bus, drive in and ride home, etc.

  I've mentored a few people on commuting, met them to ride in or home - and get a huge kick seeing the grin on their face - "Wow, I rode all the way to work!"   A few continued to ride, other have not.  It isn't for everybody, but if it clicks for you - is a killer solution to a lot of issues.

  There are a few stumbling blocks to get more people riding in U.S.  We need more bike paths and general awareness that bikes can be transportation - instead of toys or sport gear to lie next to the BBQ grill and skis.  Another is the "uniform" of the "serious cyclist" - to look a racer.  This puts many people off and is not necessary.

  I find many people are interested in the idea of commuting.  An example is the Commuter Challenge run by the Cascade bike club here in Seattle.  Runs the month of May and puts people and companies together in a friendly competition for most commuting miles and round trips.  About 600 teams and 6000 people sign up for this - not too bad for just the Seattle area.  I usually recruit a few teams for my company and can see the increase of people riding during the month.  A cool sight indeed and perhaps a glimpse into the future.

  More info on the commute challenge:  www.cascade.org

  Two bike companies geared towards commuting:  www.breezerbikes.com  www.rivbike.com
  

  Gabba Gabba Hey

  On Excellent writing posted 2 years, 6 months ago 9 Responses