I agree with your analysis of the two classes of carfree cyclists. I like to chat with these involuntary carfree folks from time to time. Mostly I talk about bikes, as that's a good neutral topic.
I've thought about putting on a "Carfree Picnic". Just buy a few goodies, spread the word that it's free to anybody who arrives without a car. And maybe take some tools so people can work on their bikes at the picnic. But I haven't done this yet and I'm not sure if I ever will. How do y'all think it would go over?
What I would tell involuntary carfree people, if I was the preachin' type:
- Keep an eye out for better quality used bikes. Look for the Trek, Specialized or Giant brands, because the cheap bikes made by these manufacturers are plentiful and a good value.
- Learn how to work on your bike. One guy said he wasn't riding any more because his bike has a flat tire. So I gave him a tube and told him how to change it.
- Learn how to ride in the streets. Sidewalks are slow and dangerous places to ride a bike.
- Put your damn saddle up higher! No low-riding!