Yeah it seems bike lanes are a quick & easy way to say "we're bike-friendly". They create a false sense of security (i.e. right hook), basically dump cyclists out of the way of traffic, and also provide a nice place for cars to park/idle in rush hour.

Even in Portland only 4.4% of people commute by bike (see fixedude's post). I admit their bike lanes look nicely designed. Perhaps 5% is the best we can do in NA?