Bikers Alleviate Pollution Problem

Yes, some people do commute [by bicycle] year-round (Letters, Dec. 24)! I have bicycled an average of four days a week for the last few years, in rain, cold, wind, around cranky but mostly pleasant drivers--over 20,000 miles’ worth.

All of my family’s bicycles are registered according to my city’s requirements. The city of Huntington Beach has been known to confiscate bicycles that are not registered.

There is no such thing as an off-road bike trail. They are multipurpose trails and are actually very dangerous. Every bike group I know of is against bicycling on off-road, multipurpose trails because of the safety factor. Bicyclists, in-line skaters, joggers and grandmothers going for a walk on these trails--and illegally in bike lanes--pay taxes in other areas just as you do. I may appear a cheapskate with my $500 bicycle next to more expensive cars, but you and all the other drivers cause air pollution. Why are you even picking on bicyclists? I get to eat 4,000 calories a day, my resting heart rate is under 50, and since I started bike commuting, my entire life is less stressful. In fact, all I ask for is a small, 4-foot bike lane (I would pay extra for it) and the normal courtesy I get from most motorists--the rain and cold are worth putting up with.

JIM VON TUNGELN JR.

Irvine

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I just finished reading Jack Smith’s response (Dec. 24) to Mike Mott’s letter about bicycle registration and licensing (Dec. 17). I also believe that bikes might do better to be registered, but the reality is that few people will register their bicycles; the costs of registering bicycles would be more than what the state could reasonably charge as a fee; and police do not have the time to chase down unregistered bicycles.

But this is not why I am writing this letter. I take offense to the assertion that us “big kids on our toys” merely “play on the roads.” I am one of a growing number of bicycle commuters in Orange County. I average around 80 miles a week riding to work and use my bicycle at least 90% of my work days (the other 10% I ride share). There are four other riders at my work, with the oldest age being over 45. Besides the obvious health benefits, we feel that we are reducing traffic, reducing pollution and setting an example to others about available alternatives such as balancing work with exercise to reduce stress.

All we ask for is 36 inches of road shoulder, for you to look back over your left shoulder before pulling out or opening your door, and please don’t make right turns in front of moving bicycles.

JAY SPONAGLE

Capistrano Beach

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Jack Smith wants bicyclists to pay a registration fee for cycling. I want Smith to pay a huge tax for his toy, his car, for emissions!

Mr. Smith reminds me of the arrogant, money-wielding developers who have destroyed every hilltop, vista and beach and all of the beauty that once existed here.

What I would like to suggest is that bike stores, “bicycle-friendly” food stores and restaurants be allowed to “advertise” (minimally) along the bike trails and help pay for the upkeep.

Sacramento offers wonderful maps of its trails. So do Boston, Washington, D.C., and Chicago. We offer zip!

JIM CROWLEY

Garden Grove