People in Colorado actually use their bikes to get around town and to run errands to the store, to Starbucks, to McDonald's. Many of the large towns have Bike Share programs where you can, armed only with a credit card, use a snazzy looking cruiser bike to remind yourself what painful leg muscles feel like.
Here in Fairbanks they also have a Bike Share program with racks of what appear to be new shiny red bikes just itching to be taken out for a spin. I'm not sure if these bikes are really new or just never used because in our time here I never did see one being ridden. Still they pose nicely for a great picture.
Being retired and visiting the great State of Alaska I wasn't really tuned in to whether they participate in the annual Bike to Work ritual. I'm assuming at least one intrepid Alaskan braved the one day of sunshine by getting out of their truck to attempt this novel way to commute. No excuse for not having the time what with the 24 hours of daylight and all.
My wife Sophie and I have been riding every chance we get. Biking Alaska is a wonderful experience. I don't think Alaskan drivers are quite sure how to handle cyclists trying to navigate the same gravel roads, pot holes, and frost heaves they are. Still, they have been very courteous and polite. I haven't seen a single finger salute aimed in my direction since we've been here whereas back in Denver that would be an hourly occurrence.
I guess I shouldn't harp on Alaskans not riding their bikes very often. Between their trucks, snow machines, float planes, dog sleds, paddle wheelers, and railroads who has time to break out the lycra hidden under all that fur.
Bring a new meaning to "Bike Friendly Country" I'm sure. Have you even seen "one" other biker there? :-)
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ReplyDeleteActually there is a huge cycling community and it's popular!!
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