Boris and Dave, George and Io

George [very English] and Io [named after one of Saturn's moons, picture c/o NASA] first meet on the bronchs [an idea in the Buffalo Future novels] which are specifically for cyclists. They cycled side by side for miles, which was only made possible by good design. Their conversations helped them explore purpose in life, family matters, and the possibility of love.

We know Boris and Dave cycle but is it ever side by side? What could such conversations cover? Might they talk of bicycle matters, and of realising good design?

We'll see!

I hope so, Elder Adok

Good conversation with Boris, Dave, and SkyCycle

Cyclists reduce pollution, keep fit, and with proper cycle lanes can have good conversation.

With an election next year, now is the time to make decisions which encourage cyclists. Building SkyCycle is an obvious opportunity. It would significantly enhance social engagement in our capital by encouraging cyclists to chat away from the noise and confusion of road traffic.

Serpent Dove  includes just such an encounter between Io and George. It leads into a growing friendship ... but there are other encounters too. 

Roll on a bicycle-friendly world,

Elder Adok

Cycle lanes for different speeds

Updated May 2020

If SkyCycle, a scheme proposed by Foster+Partners, turns out to be just a cycle track above the railways that would miss many opportunities. For example, how about lanes for different speeds: electric bikes, family carriers, Bromptons, trailer towing, and road bikes?

The slow lane could be wide enough for those towing a trailer or cycling side by side.  The middle and fast lanes would give flexibility so those cycling around 30 mph could do so safely. Coronavirus challenges us to empower cyclists. Rather than squeezing tight single lane tracks down the side of busy roads, it's time to hand over some main roads completely to cycling.

Even better, how about purpose built infrastructure overhead? The Buffalo Future novels envisage such an idea in the bronchs, which are cycle ways also acting as fresh air ducts.

Here's to the best cycle infrastructure.

Come on Boris and Dave, SkyCycle!

First posted August 2015; updated August 2015

There are political pilgrimages to Brompton Bikes because they manufacture a fantastic British icon. Its flexibility inspires many in reducing pollution by cycling to/from trains, and storing a folded bike securely.

In 2014 Prime Minister David Cameron visited with local MP Mary MacLeod and the then Minister of State for Employment Esther McVey. It was a great photo opportunity because it included two Conservative female politicians.

However all bikes [folding or not] need proper cycle-friendly infrastructure design and commitment. David Cameron and London Mayor Boris Johnson declare themselves bike friendly with many photoshots, but will leave a lasting cycling legacy unless investing in something like Foster + Partners SkyCycle?

Santander hire bikes and blue coloured cycle tracks are only tinkering. Boris has a final window of opportunity before the next mayor arrives. Who knows Cameron be displaced by an explosive Corbynite charge!

Imagine if SkyCycle was even more than purpose built cycleways. Could it also carry fresh air, communications, generate from solar etc. That would be an amazing legacy. Two are combined in the idea of the bronchs in my first Buffalo Future novel.