As my last blog was a big of a downer (sometimes the truth hurts) I thought I'd cheer things up with a fun Website of the Week: EcoVelo. It's a lovely-jubbly site that makes cycling sound carefree again (instead of being the gritty, life-or-death tightrope walk it is in London).

 

The founders are based in northern California, so no surprise that EcoVelo appeals to my [hidden] inner hippie (check out those cute panniers!), but it's also got interesting political info and of course plenty of product reviews. I especially like the dynamo-powered headlights. After all, if you’re expending all that energy, it may as well go to a good cause (besides keeping thighs from turning to jelly).

 

Speaking of cycling in London, a new study finds cycle lanes actually make cyclists less safe. (Add your 2p to the debate at The  Independent.) Of course wide, kerbed-off cycle lanes would increase safety, but London's titchy and sporadic lanes just encourage motorists to drive right on the edge of 'their territory', whereas they give cyclists a slightly wider berth when the road is obviously shared. Of course lowering speed limits to 20mph on neighbourhood and urban streets is the best way to ensure cyclists' safety (that and increasing the number of totally car-free streets).

 

PS: Great green gift idea: If your partner's a cyclist and his/her birthday is coming up soon, pick up a copy of David Byrne's Bicycle Diaries (Faber & Faber). [Don't worry, apparently my other half doesn't get the chance to read my blog every single day (hrmph) so my secret's safe.]

 

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