Why are we doing this?

The past three to five years have seen a steady growth of interest in the bicycle as a mode of transit. Growing numbers of people have become cycling enthusiasts for the advantages it offers in exercise, cost and sheer enjoyment. While ‘bike crazes’ have hit before, it seems that bicycles are now poised to make a permanent impact on the way people move, thanks to a number of factors.

Now, more than ever, cycling may exist not only as an individual pasttime, but as a communal activity.  The web has enhanced the cyclist’s experience in every way: from expanded choice of accessories, to communcation with other cyclists in their community, to expanded awareness of bicycling issues, the average cyclist now has greater access to a knowledge-rich community of other cyclists.

We recognize the bicycle as a mode of transport that has been sustainable from the start. An enabling gadget, someone with a bicycle can accomplish much. Ivan Illich sums up feelings that resonate deeply within us in this passage.