First off, I dig trains. They are without a doubt a more efficient form of transport than cars and better at hauling loads than trucks. I could go on but let's just say trains rule.
To answer Pete's question, I don't think that we would ever be able to get everyone to ride bikes and I don't think I would want to see it if we could. I certainly would like to see people use appropriate, sustainable transportation, which the private automobile isn't especially with the worlds exponential population growth.
I believe to make a major change in the driving habits of Americans that the government would have to play a role. Just as they played a major role in encouraging surburban sprawl and private car usage.
Why shouldn't we expect people to live close to where they work?
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"only on a BIKE"