Originally Posted by
folder fanatic
Ah, a very mad poster from Seattle attempting to shame me and take me to task. And probably never even been in Los Angeles. So you can forget about standing on your soapbox and attempt anything beyond cute little occasional idealistic hippie-dippie posts. I saw those idiot hippies in action (yes I am that old) now completely screwed up whatever is decent left in American society with their huge (around 1/4 of the population) Baby Boom numbers and fantasies of self-greatness (thanks to their war weary Greatest Generation parents spoiling them so much). Besides, look down at my signature. Do you have a up and running free to all comers an periodically updated Website series for 5 years now that assist the global bike community (not just your physical residence or even bothered to visit mine)? Do you design and sew bike accessories? Or even know how to sew? Or put up with gang members on a daily basis and come out of it unscathed? If you bothered to take a look at my sites, you will find that I have been heavily promoting cycling as an serious option to the automobile. I carefully documented my views, experiences and bike upgrades and restorations on these sites. And yes, I have done and will probably continue to go to and support major bike events like our Ciclavia or selected bike festivals. And actually talk to people and promote folding bikes as a real alternative to most interrested people.
I guess it is time I clarify that I am physically visiting 2 cities that proclaim they are so great and upbeat with cycling very soon. I am not posting actual dates or even bothering bringing a bike with me when I do. I don't want to cloud my viewpoints dragging the Brompton with me all over the place-although I bought my Brompton from Folding Bikes West which has it's only store left that is now in Seattle. I will stop at a few random bikes shops while I am at these places (I hate tourist traps attractions) plus use public transportation when it seems to be the best option. I decided to visit Seattle WA and Portland OR for a few days each and see for myself all the hoopla on how great these bike communities are supposed to be. The results will be definitely posted on my Websites series for sure and maybe here if it suits me.
If you actually met me in person, you will see someone who is not physically like she was years ago (Weekend Warrior no more) and would like to sometimes drive as she sometimes grows weary of all the idiots on the streets surrounding her residence and simply wants a major change in her life now. Instead of just talking about it, I am going to do something about it as was always my habit.
My father lived in Seattle in 1935 for about a year. He returned to Los Angeles as he told me Seattle is far to rainy. So I would like to visit where he lived there too.
Thank you.
Have you thought about posting this on the Safety and Advocacy subforum? They would probably be quite interested. I agree that there are probably a lot of people who don't ride because of their perception that cycling is dangerous, but those people might be more likely to visit the S&A forum.