I am a Vancouverite, born and raised in the city. I believe Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, as confirmed by recent livability reports. I also believe that Vancouver is populated by educated, eco-conscious and health conscious people who are committed to preserving this treasure for future generations. So, why is it that people continue to resist any … [Read more...]
Vancouver Bike Share is a Go – But Helmets are Still in the Way
Vision Vancouver first announced that it was considering a bike share program back in 2010. Back then it was widely hailed, with 80% of surveyed residents stating they would use it, and 70% claiming they would even use it in the winter. Tourists were even more enthusiastic in their responses. However, various factors stalled the implementation of a Vancouver Bike Share. But … [Read more...]
Melbourne Bike Share – Why is it Failing?
Melbourne Bike Share is one of the only three bike share programs in the world that requires users to wear bike helmets (the others being Brisbane, where the program is also failing, and Vancouver as of July 2016 - where it is still too soon to tell). Many people allege that the bike helmet law is causing the Melbourne Bike Share to fail. And there is no doubt that the helmet … [Read more...]
Bike Share in Brisbane – Could this be the Most Tourist-Unfriendly Bike Share System in the World?
Brisbane’s bike share program, CityCycle, is not a success – and the law requiring that users wear helmets is just part of the problem. Based on my experience of the system, Brisbane’s bike share system is failing mainly because of epic unfriendliness. Maggie (Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist) and I are great fans of bike share systems, and actually choose our travel … [Read more...]
Montreal Cycling, Part 2: The Bixi Bike Share System
I LOVED pretty much everything about Montreal cycling – but the thing I loved the most was the Bixi Bike Share system. Bixi is short for “bike taxi,” and that’s pretty much what they are. During the whole time we were in Montreal, we never once had to take a cab. Bixi was the way to go. Bixi bikes are sturdy and weather resistant. Some come with 3 gears, some with 6. Now when … [Read more...]
