Paris, unfortunately, is not in the U.S. How's the Portland bike program going?

As far as folders everywhere, I like the fact that that is not the case around here. It's easier for me to bring mine to most places and not get hassled by anyone. If more were around, there'd be specific policies written about folding bikes, and that would make us lose our current advantage.

Uprights don't have to be 50lbs, just comfortable enough so that people will want to ride them. Electric motors would help some to ride, but battery technology has to get MUCH better than it is now in terms of battery life and weight, perhaps on par with the efficiency (minus the weight) of scooter engines (i.e. 150-200mpg). For others, stability is key, so upright trikes (and even tadpoles and deltas) need to be refined. Lastly, lock technology has to get better. Doesn't matter if you have a cool bike but are always scared it's going to get ripped off or molested if you take it anywhere. Did you see those recent pics in the Swift thread of someone's new Swift that has a purposely messed up paint job to make it look less desirable to thieves? One should never have to do anything like that.