Getting more people on Bikes

Greg Raisman is a Portland resident who recently wrote about how people like you and me can make life better for cyclists. He has a good bit of experience since his job promotes cycling safety with the Portland Office of Transportation.

I've had this idea of Recreational Commuting that I've been kicking around -- commuting and fun go together when you're on a bike -- and Greg's article puts some teeth in that idea.

Greg mentions Portland's "Breakfast on the Bridges" (video), for example. Lots of folks ride alone into the office, but what if you could meet several like-minded commuters for breakfast? This might be all it takes to tip someone off the fence.

Greg reminds us that "Safety in Numbers" works for cyclists and those numbers become self-increasing. He points out, "The more you ride your bicycle, the more likely it is that your friends will ride." Sand dunes are built one grain at a time.

I was also pleased the article mentioned family rides such as the one we have planned for Saturday.

Further supporting this idea of Recreational Commuting is this post on Commute by Bike. The stream of comments left by readers is impressive in both its number and the breadth of experiences. There are an awful lot of ways to get more people on bikes.

Commute Summary

Round Trip Distance: 18.0
Number of Cyclists seen: 20 (17 commuters)
In-bound Route: Wednesday Bike Train
Out-bound Route: Emory via Clifton
Weather: just below freezing in AM and windy; good afternoon temps and less wind.