As with discussion of other transportation systems, one needs to begin considering the infrastructure. In the analysis of cycling, infrastructure deals with not only routes for bicycles, but also methods to store them during typical operations. European cities have designated many spaces in city centers and terminals of transit lines to securely park the bicycles. In comparison, the stations of New York City Subway do not provide adequate storage space for bikes; instead, there are ubiquitous signs stating that bikes chained onto the station railings will be removed. Furthermore, many mass transit systems in the United States are not very suitable for bikes. Many mass transit lines, including New York's heavily-used Long Island Railroad and Metro North, reserve the right to refuse cyclists service, either by restricting bikes during rush hours or enforcing strict quotas. Other transit systems may be even more restrictive; MARC trains between Washington and Baltimore only allow folding bikes. These limitations and uncertainty deter potential cycling commuters who need some assist from public transportation to cover portion of the distance.
Infrastructure may not be the only reason behind United States’ lag in cycling usage. Michael Bloomberg administration has initiated the creation of hundreds of miles of cycling lanes in New York City, yet the city only sees 0.6% of its commuters use bicycles. Not only does existing infrastructure not contribute to the rise in cycling, but creation of new infrastructure also stirs controversy. When a biking lane was erected along Prospect Park West in Brooklyn, residents there united in expressing their disapproval. Among their complaints were potential hazard for pedestrians, further congestion, and difficulty in parking. These reasoning highlight the differences in the American sociology with regards to cycling. Most Americans view cycling as a mode of recreation, rather than as one of transportation. This explains why Brooklyn residents voiced their opinion that cyclists should simply stay inside Prospect Park to ride for exercise. The idea that biking is more for recreation is corroborated by the observation that most biking lanes in American metropolises are dominated by cyclists with racing gears. Compare that scene to that of European cities, where one observes men and women in suits and dresses pedaling to work. There simply is a different established culture on what cycling is perceived as.
On average, each American produces three times the amount of carbon dioxide emissions as a person in France. Few would doubt that energy solutions are necessary. But there's much less agreement on how that is to be done. While much debates go on with regards to expanding public transportation systems, the primitive and private mode of cycling may offer some solutions. But for the United States to make cycling a viable solution like Europeans have, not only does infrastructure need to be better accommodated for cycling. More importantly, the culture must adapt to view cycling as not just a mode of recreation, but also a mode for people to move from Point A to Point B to go about their lives.
Sources:
