Bike only bridges, tunnels, highways and byways make the commute a lot less about dodging opening car doors, taxi/delivery truck obstructions, and police officers making unannounced u-turns in the middle street while traveling uphill. Just you, the road, and all the other people smart enough to journey in this fashion, in the fresh outdoors. *Note I made no declaration of traffic freedom.

I should, at this time, discuss the historical and political points relevant to the issue. However I don’t really want to pull up all those receipts. Think gas corporations.

As an NYC bike commuter I can attest to the benefits of a truly intentional system, like any one of the diverse trails and lanes for bike travel in Eastern Europe. In my city (excluding the predominately high income streets of Manhattan) the bike lanes often go unnoticed or flat out disrespected by drivers.

How beautiful to witness the shared family journey. Safe and casual.

How crazy to witness a women shuttling 2 king size shopping bags up a hill dangling them from both sides of her handle bars! I can only imagine what that scene might look like riding up 2nd ave during rush hour.

By the end of the trip I was practically in morning, Having to return to the smoke filled streets of my city, I knew capitalism was to blame for my incurable woes. Left me thinking WTF America… my national anthem.

And so, This is my ode to what was, and what could have been, and what is slowly coming to be once more. . Cheers