The War on Cars? Fact or Fiction

It was only matter of time before Stu Bykofksy's paranoia came through and in his latest column he is in full bloom.(http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/stuniversity/302832161.html) What should have been a column about the Philadelphia Parking Authority's new app only lasted half the column before he expounded on his latest crackpot theory about Philadelphia's war on cars. The only thing missing was claims about black helicopters and one world government.

The research department at the Philadelphia Bicycle Journal have found a new video that supports Mr. Bykofsky's crackpot theory. Sort of. Complete with factual data from traffic engineers and psychologists. Check out the secret video we have unearthed.

                                                                                                                      

Review - Philly Pumptrack

With spring finally here it’s time to reward your inner child with a trip to the Philly Pumptrack. A Pumptrack is a loop trail with a series of berms and dirt mounds (rollers) that allows a rider to pump the bike with there body. If done correctly you can ride the track without pedaling.

The Philly Pumptrack is a rare gem hidden within Philadelphia. The collective vision of a small group of individuals who raised the funds and found land owned by the Philadelphia Parks Department to build on. Professionally designed, the Philly Pumptrack is no ordinary hole in the ground. Both the beginner and advanced tracks offer challenges for riders of all levels of experience. It is maintained through the efforts of a committed group individuals, including many of the local children and parents who live in the community.

Last summer when I had out of town guests I took them and their kids to the Philly Pumptrack. The 9 year old was having some challenges mastering the technique of riding while standing on the pedals. So he could pump the bike more effectively. One of the Pumptrack volunteers worked with him for about 5 minutes and soon he was doing laps on the beginner track without putting his feet down to catch his balance.

The Philly Pumptrack is a wonderful experience for children of all ages, I would recommend for everyone to try at least once. The track has helmets and bicycles free to use, just make sure to leave a donation before you leave.

https://www.facebook.com/PhillyPumptrack

Bykofsky Bike Bingo

Over the years Stu Bykofsky's bike columns have become so predictable that you could play the game "Bingo" with them. To score a bingo you can use the comments and Mr. Bykofsky column to win. Check out his most recent column http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20150426_Biking_with_Byko.html 

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Friday Funnies - Wouldn't it be cool?

Wouldn’t it be cool if all of our rides could be captured by a film crew complete with a soundtrack.

Thank You Captain Brian Korn

On an almost daily basis the bike lane at 13th St between Arch and Filbert  is blocked by marked and unmarked police and civilian vehicles. Most likely because they have business at the Municipal Courthouse. Fortunately all of these individuals have alternative options for parking. On one side of the street is an official police parking lot and on the other a public parking garage. Unfortunately there are those who chose not to avail themselves of these choices. 

The Philadelphia Bicycle Journal would like to recognize Captain Brian Korn (@PPDBrianKorn) of the Philadelphia Police Department, 6th District for making an effort to help unblock the bike lane at 13th between Arch St. and Filbert St. On several occasions this sign has been sighted.

Captain Korn should be commended for taking the initiative to address this matter. I can only hope that the Philadelphia Police Department will institute a permanent solution.