A spirited group of bicyclists, including bicycle repairfolk-in-training from Phoenix Bikes, rode together as BikeArlington in the Clarendon Alliance's Mardi Gras Parade this week, showing the onlookers how diverse bicycle transportation options can be.
The front-mounted child seat, pictured here, seems to be popular in Europe and Asia as a way to haul kids around, but I don't often see it in the United States. It seems to be infinitely more convenient than putting a child behind you where you can't see them, and you get to chat with each other on your way home from daycare or the grocery store.
The Strida in the background of this picture folds up in a way that lets you roll it onto public transportation. It takes up no more of a footprint than those rolling briefcases do on the Metro (and your fellow passengers will actually be able to see this one before almost tripping over it, which cannot be said for the latter). It's a great "last mile" solution, and can be brought upstairs to one's office, too. (Plus, look at how visible those reflective tire walls are!)
The bike pictured below might not be the most practical for storing or for hauling anything, but it certainly would make other vehicles aware of its presence!
Add a flashing light to the top of the globe, and it's set as far as visibility goes. The wizards at Phonix Bikes certainly could make you an eye-catching ride, if you have an equally excellent idea.
Whatever bike you have, outfit it for your specific needs. Don't let anyone else dictate what you should or shouldn't have on your bicycle. You'll be more likely to use it if it's actually convenient for you -- and more bike riding means a skinnier Tuesday (and Wednesday and Thursday and...) for all.
Melissa Esposito is the Car-Sharing and Bike-Sharing Program Coordinator for Arlington County.
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