I think the reason cycling/bicycle riding is not as popular in the US as it should be is because of the easy access to automobiles-
The youth of our great country would much rather get their license as soon as possible and borrow the family car and go cruising with their friends-Some of these licenses can be had at 16-Once license is in hand, say goodbye to bicycles-
Look around and see how many kids, young kids have their own cars!-Just ain't cool to chase the chicks on a two wheeler when your buddy has 200 horse power-
I know this for a fact because I was one of those lucky kids with his own car back in 1959-
It took me 45 years to get back to bike ridin'-Just my .02
Regards-Bob