I’ve always been a big fan of human powered transport but I’ve recently switched my allegiances from my trusty skateboard to a shiny bike. I always used to think the skateboard ruled all as I carved down hills and smugly strolled up steep hills saving embarrassing sweaty arrivals at work and pubs.
Then I tried a mate’s bike and realised that:
- I can get everywhere so much quicker (rain or shine) on a bike;
- Bristol is great for cycling
- you can get the Government to pay for some of your new bike.
Point 1 is clearly obvious as there are many restrictions on skateboarding, and walking is just slow and boring.
Point 2 is more currently relevant. Bristol was voted the first cycling city in the UK recently by the all-knowing government, giving us some money to spend on making cycling better around the city and some essential feel good points.
But what can £100m buy you in the drive to improve cycling in a whole city? Well maybe one of these cycle lifts would encourage some people to cycle, but they would probably stop soon after the lift or their bike broke down. Instead, Bristol have asked the public what they think we should do. A novel and inspired idea I feel and it looks like the growing consensus is “more cycle lanes” for all; another few debates there I think.
If anyone feels inspired to get a bike then point 3 is almost certainly relevant. Already, three members of the Team Rubber family have used and (lawfully) abused the cyclescheme offering that the government has allowed. It’s brilliant, you get a beautiful bike plus accessories at about 40% cheaper than in the shop, and you can pay it off monthly. Just don’t fall off….
