Hate the early morning squash into the tube? Clinging to the rail with your face jammed into that sweaty man's armpit? All the while your trusty old bike is propped up at home housing the last of September's spiders. It's ok, I'm guilty too. The roads are terrifying with cars whizzing past and grazing your elbow and I get lost in this city more than I've ever been lost anywhere (with the exception of Amsterdam).
But these excuses no longer hold any weight. Say hello to the Cycle Super Highway. A specific bike path to be extended around the City next to, but for the most part separate from, the road with extra matching signs to stop directionally challenged cyclists like me ending up miles from home.
To differentiate from the tradition cycle paths, some are raised to pavement level - the curb being a handy barrier between spokes and those too-fast, too-close drivers. And in case you think it might be missed, it is painted a bright blue, Barclays blue in fact. Not content with just providing Londoners with bikes to cycle around on, they are making sure people use the bikes on these safer, quicker cycle highways. Two paths are already up and cycling from Merton and Barking into the City with 10 more planned to be completed by 2015.
With more bike parking, cutting congestion, reducing car use, taking the pressure off public transport AND encouraging more people to get cycling and get fit, what isn't to love? So (sorry, I cant help myself, I'm gonna say it) On Yer Bike!
(Spotted on Springwise)
http://www.dothegreenthing.com/blog/cycle_super_highway
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