[sustran] Re: New Share Bike scheme in Taipei

[Todd Edelman, Green Idea Factory]

BIXI certainly has a detailed and enthusiastic website but I have two 
serious questions about imagery:

<http://www.bixisystem.com/we_are_bixi/> shows helmets on some people. I 
didn't really see helmets anywhere else on the website -- also not in 
the photos from the launch. I am not sure what message BIXI is trying to 
create with that image. The obstacles regarding public bikes where there 
are mandatory helmet laws are well known to us all.

<http://www.bixisystem.com/bixi_system/> shows what looks like a fast 
residential street with no separate or even marked infrastructure for 
cyclists. In fact, it seems that in the process of parking a bike one 
could have issues with cars or other vehicles in the right lane. With 
this comment I am not arguing for any solution in particular but it 
would be great if cities or people get the suggestion that making 
substantial infrastructure changes on the street is a wonderful idea.

Also, BIXI considers it a positive that its racks and system are 
easy-to-install but I would argue that more permanent-seeming 
infrastructure is better. Whether it is tram tracks and catenary, a 
built-up BRT corridor or planted trees etc. in former car space it 
indicates a commitment from the city and its citizens. Doing something 
which can be removed just for a pilot can be a good idea, of course.

Regards,
T

Zvi Leve wrote:
> Montreal's public bike scheme - Bixi 
> <http://www.bixisystem.com/expertise/> - also has the active 
> involvement of local designers, manufacturers and even software 
> developers.
>
>
[...]

-- 
--------------------------------------------

Todd Edelman
Green Idea Factory

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Germany

Skype: toddedelman
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edelman at greenidea.eu
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CAR is over. If you want it.

"Fort mit der Autostadt und was Neues hingebaut!" 
- B. Brecht (with slight modification)

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