California: The Bicycle State

Californians are riding bicycles more today than ever before.  Bicycling is inexpensive, it's fun, and it's healthy for bicyclists as well as for California's environment.  For many folks in the Golden State, riding a bike is a daily way of life.  Biking is a growing trend in California, which is quickly becoming The Bicycle State.

Unfortunately, with millions of Californians commuting many miles per day for work, the old adage about cars is still true --- "Detroit makes 'em, but California drives 'em".  While we continue to sit in automobile traffic, our motor vehicles pollute the air we breath.  You don't have to be a total green freak to appreciate a little oxygen.  Exhaust gags!

Then there's the money thing.  Auto insurance, maintenance, repairs, gasoline, traffic tickets, car payments, tires, registration, license renewals and endless car washes are not exactly cheap.  So much drama for such an expensive ride that constantly depreciates in value as it dies and betrays you.  Hmmm...

The automobile industry, the oil industry and the insurance industry have enjoyed quite a bonanza, I'd say.  Doesn't it seem that the things which are UNNATURAL always cost the most?  Bicycling is not a power-consolidating "economy".  It's a simple joy.

Every kid knows the thrill of riding a bike.  The freedom, the open air and the exercise all feel good, naturally.  Adults who rediscover bicycling always experience the same sensations all over again.  Biking totally rocks!

California is becoming more aware of the need for transportation planning that accommodates bicyclists.  In 2008, Governor Schwarzenegger signed the Complete Streets Act into law.  It requires cities and counties to include complete streets policies as part of their planning so that roads are designed to accommodate all users, including bicyclists.

Important, and very valuable, to bicycle riders in the Golden State is the California Bicycle Coalition.  This great nonprofit education and lobbying organization works to improve bicycling conditions throughout the State of California. Their Resources section is comprehensive, providing links to local bicycle organizations across California.

Bicycling is therapeutic, cost-effective, family-friendly transportation that's pure fun for every age.  Jump on a bicycle and see a different side of California that you can actually FEEL.  I'll race you!