Originally Posted by
Machka
My website is NOT meant to be a commentary on cycling advocacy ... although in this particular log, I did try to mention a few of the interesting cycling-related things I noticed, including a picture or two of how the traffic signals differed from those I've seen in NA.
All I said in my post (#11) was that I enjoyed cycling in France ... in response to Prendrefeu's ambition to move to France (Post #1). I thought perhaps some bits of information from our travels there might interest him.
And I think Rowan knows what he is doing when it comes to Brooks saddles and long rides. He has some experience in those matters and had no trouble at all with it.
I understand, and indeed it was a nice travelogue... with great pics. But you did present it as part of a thread regarding "dealing with the same issues in Europe."
As for the Brooks... reminds me of buying new hiking boots the day before attempting the Pacific Crest Trail. That is certainly Rowan's choice.
Now really what do you think of the differences between European cycling and what one may face in North America? Did you for instance find any attitude difference in the motorists?
I for one found it interesting that there are bike lanes in France, that cyclists do indeed do group rides, and that helmets do not seem to be popular over there. I also agree with your general comment that in places people readily hop on bikes much the same way that folks in the US jump in the car... for even minor errands. I also found it interesting that Paris had special stop lights just for bikes... a rare item in the US. (do they exist at all in the US??)