Re: Gas prices and an increase in cycling?

Cullen Carter wrote:

> There's no doubt that we'll see astronomical gasoline prices soon in
> the future.

Are you sure it won't be in the past?

> Of course, one would think that this would lead to an increase in
> cycling.

I'd rather not.  If they are riding because they are financially
pressed, they won't be friendly toward avocational riders, especially
ones that flaunt expensive "racing" equipment and dress up like their
professional idols.

> However, I think human beings (especially Americans) are too lazy
> for bicycles, and we'll probably see an increase in horses for
> trans****tation [according to this it's already happening:

 http://www.wyff4.com/news/15968363/detail.html].

You don't need conjecture on that, the numbers are in and they point
to mass transit, the reasonable solution as seen by government.  I
hope to see the anti-transit attitude vanish and the NIMBY's who
rather have more lanes on the nearby freeway than commute trains use
existing but idle rail lines.  Just a few in the SF Bay Area:
Dumbarton bridge rail line, NWP rails in Marin and Napa county, rials
from Walnut creek to Pleasanton-Livermore, Hollister branch, Monterey
Branch and Santa Cruz branch, all formerly had passenger service.

One huge traffic jam over the Santa Cruz Mountains is HWY17 where an
existing rail line lies dormant.

> But, I have to admit that - yes, I'm surprised - I've actually seen
> an increase in cyclists?

I'm not enamored with these new riders and their attitude toward
people who "play" on their bicycles.  Hey!  I'm on a training ride.

> Have you guys too?

I haven't seen many adults (in contrast to youth and local students)
ride more.  I suppose bicycle shop operators on this forum could give
a broader picture.
-- 
Jobst Brandt