Ecomunicipality.com

Let's start by admitting that a human being on a bicycle is as close to mechanical perfection as we are ever likely to get.  Zero emissions, maximum energy efficiency, appropriate design, few mobility or parking issues, easily repaired by simple tools and technology, free exercise, good for the brain--you just don't get much better than a human on a bicycle.

So, the trick becomes how to maximize the possibilities for biking while not pissing off people who still cling to their carbon-emitting, fossil fuel chugging, unsustainably wrong paradigm believing vehicle owners.  Of which, because I do own a car, I also include myself.

Where to start?

Minneapolis is already the second most bike-friendly city in the country, after Portland, Oregon.  And, by the look of recent policy initiatives, they may have their eyes on taking over the top spot.

I can report, with great authority, that in south Minneapolis, on the new Greenway Trail, an old rail corridor through the heart of the city, that there is an unbelievable amount of biking going on.  Young people, old people, professionals--bikes are a happening thing on the streets and trails around town and have totally changed the look and feel of Minnesota's largest city.

Never, ever underestimate the power of a bicycle.

But, there are other trends as well.

In San Francisco, Iowa, and again, in Minneapolis, there are moves afoot to loosen the restrictions on coming to a full stop at stop signs and traffic lights.  The idea is to encourage bike transportation and give people, whose sense of personal safety is very high, the right to keep moving when there are not vehicles in their path.

Of course, with all the interest in biking, new kinds of bikes are hitting the market.   And, new kinds of services, including a vending machine with spare parts, accessories and other bike paraphernalia, all ready to go at the touch of a button.

But, as easy, economical and efficient as biking is, that doesn't mean that it is easy to fit into the modern lifestyle.  One couple who tried living off-grid for a month has chronicled the ups and downs of life on a bike.  And another writer has opined on the inherent laziness that often prevents a successful mounting.

In any event, the trend-lines are clear.   Communities that promote biking end up with healthier populations, a younger demographic, and the kind of innovative and creative economy that most municipalities are willing to die for.  

The bicycle is back, and in a big way.  Bigger than ever. 

At the same time cars, especially SUVs are fading, the bicycle is rising, faster and higher than ever before. 

Communities who can cater to that interest will find themselves, no pun intended, in the driver's seat.