They ride dressed up in their nicest work clothes and high heels. They ride home from the bar at midnight. They have their own lane on the sidewalk. They rarely wear helmets.
Picture a wide, wide sidewalk with a large section next to the buildings for pedestrians, and then a small curb down to a bike lane that is still NOT in the street but up on the sidewalk. Then imagine a final curb down to the street where you will finally find the cars. It is safest not to wander into the bike lane because they are serious and fast and on a mission.
Lastly, notice the trailer that replaces the front tire. Lots of parents pedal along with a child in that front section. Others transport their books and groceries, and even the mail carrier pedals along with his letters and packages in front. Yes, there are cars, but there are far more bicycles.
We were amazed at the smoking we saw, but we also noticed how fit and healthy and pink-cheeked everyone seemed to be. I swear nobody is overweight here. They cycled in rain and wind and cold temperatures. No snow, though. Very impressive. It's clearly a way of life.
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