Hi, I heard your show this morning about one rule you would like to pass for cyclists, and I would like to tell you why I ride. I had a stroke a couple of years ago, and though I had damage to 3 different areas of the brain, you wouldn't notice the damage if you casually met me. But due to its effects I no longer drive, and may have cause an accident and injuries to two people because I did drive for two years after the stroke because I thought I could drive. I have diabetes and need the exercise, and I enjoy riding the bike.
Believe me, you would not want me behind the wheel. I hate taking the bus as I can ride most places faster than the bus would get there, and don't have to wait to go anywhere. I use bike paths as much as possible, but don't hesitate to go on the road if it is more direct and I wont impede traffic. My son who is now 12 has to ride with me when we go somewhere together (I am divorced) and I appreciate the infrastructure in Madison that makes it safer. I would like to point out that while I know that too many bikes are unregistered, mine and my sons are. There is no license plate, it is a sticker that is under the seat. The cost is supposed to help pay for bike infrastructure, as well as property taxes. I have no problem with enforcement as I hate nothing more than when my son and I are waiting for a stop light or sign and some bike runs through the intersection. I do sometimes where Lycra, though I prefer cargo shorts, and freely admit that I am not riding, or claim that I am better for the environment. I have no problems with cars, and would drive many places if I could. I do not think I am better than anyone because I choose to ride, but I also don't think I am any less than you because I ride. Ron _______________________________________________ Bikies mailing list [email protected] http://lists.danenet.org/listinfo.cgi/bikies-danenet.org
