As far as world beater's, US Postal/Discovery had a budget about 20% less than the German team that Ulrich rode for. The US has an excellent cycling program both amateur and pro.

The roads were lined with folks from all over the US to watch the Tour de Georgia when Armstrong rode. I think he rode in three. It's now folded due to a lack of interest.

Americans are not into physical activity and it gets more that way every year. My two canoe clubs and the two bike clubs are older folks. The younger folks are doing more sedentary stuff.

So I wouldn't blame the government for lack of financial support, but I would blame local governments for roads/streets that are hostile for walking/riding. That said, I doubt that more folks would ride with better conditions as where I live, the riding environment is pretty good and the interest is very low.

As Pogo said, "we have met the enemy and he is us."

Al