All right regional cyclists, let’s mobilize and write some letters to the editor!
Editorial: Region just not suited to bicycle commuting
By Alan Wallace, Editor
Woodland Progress
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Even with gas prices near $4 a gallon, praise for cycling’s fun, healthfulness and environmental benefits can’t change the fact that this region simply isn’t well-suited to cycling, especially for the vast majority of people who just want to get to and from work.
The region’s handful of hardcore cyclists might view western Pennsylvania’s hills as a challenging workout, but for most people, the hills simply are too daunting. And if you’re going to end up just pushing that bike up those hills, what’s the point?
Then there’s the climate — and not just snowy, icy winter roads. On a bicycle, even flat terrain that’s fun on a dry, sunny, 70-degree day can be quite a chore in heavy spring rains or summer heat and humidity readings that top 90.
Enthusiasts continue to advocate spending more public money to encourage wider use of bicycles. But they tend to overlook practical problems with their “share the road” mentality.
Ever notice how many cyclists seem to obey stop signs only when it’s convenient?
NEWSLETTER