Who can blame them?

There have been at least a couple of efforts by graduate students using GIS mapping data to try to figure out whether Seattle can ever be as bike-friendly as Portland.

The short answer (as I understand it) is "no." The problems is that there are too many natural barriers (mainly steep hills) running across too many important neighborhoods. Therefore, even if bike infrastructure is improved, it's still going to be difficult to get casual riders interested in bike commuting because too many routes are too difficult.

http://seattletransitblog.com/2010/0...ycle-analysis/

So: we are not Portland. We are tougher.

Not, so in my experience. I've often been embarrassed by the language and tactics of ideological compatriots and can admire those with opposing ideas.

My wife and I didn't think much of Seattle when we were there last May. Didn't look bike friendly to us. :eek:
http://i373.photobucket.com/albums/o...g?t=1286485354

We liked the Columbia River Gorge area. Great for cycling!! :thumb: