High Gas Equals Good News for Cyclists

OK, I know what you're saying.  High gas prices don't do anyone any good.  Except of course the oil industry.  But read on, and maybe I can change your mind.

First off, we all know that bicycles are the future.  They make environmental sense, they are fun, they are healthy, they create a sense of community with others of like mind, and well...the clothes are cool.

Besides all of that, there is another very real reason why now is the time for bicycles, and for cycling.

What is the greatest fear of most cyclists?  Being hit, of course.  By something big, hard to control, and made of metal.  When you're constantly passed by huge, 6 thousand pound machines that are as wide as your lane, there is little feeling of security.  You're happy to survive those encounters.

But, guess what?  Although rising gas prices drive us all nuts, there is a good side.  Slowly, almost imperceptibly, cars are getting smaller.  Ok, not all of them, and it is a rather gradual process.  But I've already noticed a difference.  And as a cyclist, I know that I'd rather share the road with a Prius, than with a Ford Excursion.

Turns out that all of the major car companies are offering models that look a lot like what they drive in Europe...where the price of gas went north of 8 dollars a gallon quite a while ago.  And just in case you're a bit skeptical (and you have a right to be), and recall how we've downsized before, just to go back to our Yukons and Suburbans....take heart (if you love cycling).  It appears that this time high gas prices are here to stay.  And that means that the smaller, more efficient, increasingly electric and hybrid machines that are beginning to flood the market...may be around for good...this time.

I for one think that's a very good thing.  Not because I don't feel it at the pump.  But because I know that cycling will continue to become a cooler, and safer thing to do.

By the way, as you know, in many parts of the world bicycles are ingrained in the culture.  Check out this cool link to a bike share program in Denver, that may help to bring that about here.  Denver Bike Sharing Program