Very interesting thread. I asked the question 6 months ago at my lbs if we are experiencing another bike boom in this country.

The one in the late 70's, early '80's was fun. I worked in a bike shop during the latter surge in cycling activity.
Can you imagine riding in cycling events on weekends, then drinking beer and eating pizza in the evening.......I can. For a college kid, it was a pretty good living.

The answer from the bike shop was a guarded yes!!!

It seems all the old rr track right of ways are being converted to bike paths.
The retired boomers are buying bikes. Probably knee issues and they want to get some exercise in the great outdoors.....
Younger people, I believe, are more environmentally conscious.

Plus - people are finding out it is a blast, and a great way to meet very nice people.

Cycling, on a bad day, beats the heck out of video games!!!!!!!!!!!