[Vision2020] bicycling in Moscow and beyond

[roger hayes]

All:

I suppose this is sort of a response to both Kai's comments on why 
bicyclists might ride on a sidewalk and to the current thread about oil 
supplies. (Yes, there may be a connection!)
First of all, riding a bike instead of driving is a good thing, not 
only for the individual gain of good exercise, but for the society as a 
whole.  Each person on a bike is one less car congesting traffic, 
demanding more roads, polluting the air, consuming precious 
petrochemicals, and generally deteriorating the ambiance of our town. 
Of course, due to personal physical limitations, not everyone has the 
ability to ride a bike in pursuit of their daily lives.  That's the way 
it is. There are busses here in Moscow now.
Riding a bike can be a very hazardous activity. It's obvious that motor 
vehicles, and road conditions really do present a serious threat. Sean 
Michael hits the nail on the head about why people might ride on the 
sidewalk. Even riding in the bike lane can be dangerous. Motor vehicles 
often take that space too.  Traffic travels well above the speed limit. 
Vehicles pass, then cut in front of bicyclists to turn right. All the 
pressures can cause a bicyclist to give up using the provided bike lane 
and get pushed onto the sidewalk.
Now, even though in Moscow it is legal for bicyclists to use the 
sidewalks, I don't like to ride there.  That space is for pedestrians.  
I believe a bicycle is a vehicle.  It belongs on the street. In order 
to get bicyclist off the sidewalk, vehicles will have to allow 
bicyclist to ride on the streets.  The municipality will have to 
encourage drivers to travel at the speed limits, adequate space for 
bike lanes should be provided, and a mentality of respect between the 
different modes of transportation should be fostered.
Back to the oil supply question...
The future belongs to those who reckon with it.  I think riding a bike, 
walking, and being conscious of the problems facing us is doing so.

Sincerely,
Roger Hayes
'04 LeMond
Not too many scratches yet