> -----Original Message from Connie Sadler-----
> Subject: [BIKE-TO-BROWN] 'City Bike' Hot New Category at 
> Bicycle Industry Show
> 
> This is an interesting article...
> 
>
<http://www.wired.com/cars/coolwheels/news/2007/09/interbike_urbanbikers
>

It's certainly true that hip 'urban' bikes, the focus of this article,
are a rapidly expanding category, in the mold of fixed gear and
singlespeed messenger-style machines. But at the same time, major
American brands are creating really smart-looking European-style
transportation bikes, and established European manufacturers of these
are getting footholds into the American market. These are more commonly
described as 'Dutch' bikes, but features can include an upright
position, integrated lighting, fenders, chainguards or full chaincases,
internal gear hubs, baskets and racks, and a certain
Copenhagen/Amsterdam 'feel' in the styling. Breezer has been trying to
market these for years, but the range of choices in the category are
suddenly blooming. They're a very nice idea for commuting, you buy the
bike and it already has what you need to be a true vehicle.

The great weather since Spring has helped around here, but it is clear
that there are significantly more riders on the road, especially in the
cities, this year than last year. 

I'm curious to see how many keep at it through the winter (surely the
weather will strongly affect that), and of those who taper off, how many
come back to it next year.

The most effective means of increasing overall cyclist safety is simply
having more cyclists on the road. I'm certainly glad to see the trends
favoring bikes for now.

Don

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