How People on Bikes Can Come Together As Advocates — No Matter Why They Ride (Peter Flax)
Mar 26, 2024
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Former Bicycling Magazine editor Peter Flax and guest host Gersh Kuntzman discuss the unity and joy of biking, advocating for collaborative efforts to improve biking infrastructure. They delve into promoting cyclist rights, transforming cities positively, addressing challenges in bike advocacy, and reframing the definition of a 'real cyclist' to foster inclusivity and safety in biking culture.
Recognizing shared experiences can lead to unity and advocacy in the cycling community.
Different types of riders are coming together to address common issues and advocate for safer cycling environments.
Deep dives
Commonality Among Riders
The podcast explores the idea that all riders, regardless of their cycling background, share common ground when it comes to issues such as bicycling's place in society and safety concerns. The guest, Peter Flax, emphasizes how recognizing this shared experience can lead to greater unity and advocacy within the cycling community, highlighting the importance of riders coming together for a common cause. Flax reflects on how transitioning from a recreational cyclist to a utility rider in Los Angeles made him realize the interconnectedness among all types of cyclists and the potential benefits of a unified voice.
Advocacy and Interconnectivity
In the podcast, the discussion delves into the role of advocacy in cycling and how different types of riders are increasingly joining forces to address common issues like road safety and infrastructure challenges. Flax points out that various groups, including bike racers and fitness enthusiasts, are recognizing the need for advocacy efforts as they share a common desire for safe cycling environments. By fostering interconnectivity and understanding among cyclists, there is a growing sense of solidarity and collaboration to drive positive changes in policies and urban planning related to cycling.
Challenges and Hope for Change
The podcast touches on the challenges faced by cyclists in urban areas, particularly regarding safety concerns and the slow progress in creating bicycle-friendly infrastructure. Flax and the host discuss the dynamics between car culture and bike culture, highlighting the historical investment in promoting car usage and the need for a cultural shift towards embracing alternative modes of transportation. Despite the obstacles, Flax remains optimistic about the gradual improvements in biking conditions and the potential for a more inclusive and welcoming approach to cycling for people of all backgrounds and experience levels.
This week, we’re bringing you an interview with former Bicycling Magazine editor and cycling journalism veteran Peter Flax, to talk about Flax's new book, Live to Ride. Flax and guest host Gersh Kuntzman dig into the reasons why so many of us love to spend time on two wheels, and why people on bikes from all backgrounds come together around the simple joy of pedaling — as well as how they might come together as advocates to build coalitions that win real policy change. Listen in, and check out an edited transcription of this interview here.
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