Wisconsin Bicyclist Vol. 3 No. 2

The League of American Bicyclists (LAB) today announced a campaign to protest Amtrak's recent decision to accommodate smoking instead of bicycling on its long-distance intercity lines. The National Railroad Passenger Corporation, known as Amtrak, broke an explicit commitment to the League of American Bicyclists to retrofit 34 intercity baggage cars with roll-on access for bicycles. Amtrak has turned the baggage cars into smoking cars.

Following LAB's 1993 report Linking Bicycles with Trains: Opportunities for Amtrak to Increase Ridership and Revenues by Increasing Bicycle Access and six regional Amtrak meetings in 1995 where LAB worked with local advocacy leaders to generate a prominent presence of the bicycle community, the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee included strong pro-bicycling language in its report on the "Amtrak Reform and Privatization Act of 1995." Additionally, on three separate occasions, top Amtrak officials made explicit promises to LAB officials that the roll-on bicycle access, tested in recent years in California and the East Coast's Vermonter line, would be added to the intercity baggage cars in question.

Amtrak Intercity Spokesman Marc Magliar, questioned by the LAB, said, "We have never announced that, and I'm not aware of Amtrak making such a commitment." LAB Government Affairs Director Allen Greenberg responded, however, "Either that spokesman is too new to know the facts or he's being lied to. Amtrak made this promise to bicyclists, and now--when they would ask for our support of their funding in the upcoming debate over ISTEA's reauthorization--they have abandoned bicyclists hoping to travel America for recreation and transportation."

LAB seeks your support on this issue. We encourage you let Amtrak know how important bicycle accommodation is on trains. Contact: Mr. Tom Dows, President and CEO, Amtrak, 60 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington DC 20002

BFW Meets With Congressman Petri

Congressman Tom Petri met February 20, 1997 with a coalition of people interested in maintaining the current level of federal transportation funding for bicycle facilities under ISTEA (the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act). The group was brought together by the BFW. The coalition included Jackson Lynch of Trek Bicycle, Jay Townley of the Bicycle Council, and bicycle shop owners and bicyclists from throughout Petri's district.

Congressman Petri informed the group that ISTEA is up for review at this time and must be reauthorized by Sept. 1, 1997 for there to be any federal transportation funding program in the country. Petri explained the need for an efficient and effective transportation system for our country and how transportation affects our position as a global competitor in the business world. He also indicated that multi-modal transportation is very good for the nation's economy and well-being of its people. Petri believes that the ISTEA program will be reauthorized with the bicycle funding element. However, he did caution that the total amount of money available is still not clear.

Congressman Petri also indicated that trails have a positive impact on land values for both recreational and overall community attractiveness. Communities surrounding the Elroy Sparta Trail in the western part of his district are finding that their proximity to the Trail helps attract both tourists and residents to their communities. The Congressman also sees increasing opportunities for bicycling throughout his district.

Its a First - Wisconsin Bike Dealers Gather to Support ISTEA!

The national Bikes Belong! campaign- covered in the IceBound, 1997 issue of Wisconsin Bicyclist- is picking up speed in Wisconsin. Charlie Gandy, Bicycle Federation of America's top bike advocate, spoke at a meeting of bicycle dealers from across the state and applauded the event as the "first of its kind in the nation- a unique coalition of consumers, shops, advocates, and people in the industry speaking with a single voice"!

The Bike Fed. sponsored meeting brought together bike dealers across Wisconsin to hear from state and national-level experts on the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), and to show their support for the federal transportation legislation that has provided millions of dollars for bicycle projects nation-wide over the last five years.

In a stirring presentation, Gandy focused on the need for well organized and broad-based support for the campaign to re-authorize ISTEA. For bike shops, he reminded the group, more trails means more sales. Gandy went on to describe how the highway industry has outspent bicycling interests ten to one in lobbying activities. But, what they lack, he explained, is the kind of genuine grassroots coalition such as Bikes Belong! which reflects the concerns of actual voters who put politicians in and out of office.

Other key speakers at the meeting helped to round out a powerful portrayal of ISTEA's importance in Wisconsin including Tom Huber, Wisconsin DOT's bike coordinator, Jay Townley of the Bicycle Council, Rob Kennedy of the New Transportation Alliance and Jackson Lynch of TREK Bicycle Corporation. "We really want you all to know that we are behind this campaign 100%!" affirmed Jackson Lynch of TREK.

You too can get involved in the Bikes Belong! campaign. For starters, write a letter, tell a friend, or call the congressional hotline at (202) 224-3121 to voice your support for a bike friendly version of ISTEA. Or, for more information on ISTEA and bicycle issues across the state, just give us a call at the Bike Fed. (608)251-4456.

The State Bike Map Challenge Continues!

BFW has a unique opportunity to be the publisher of the new Wisconsin State Bicycle Map. WisDOT has done the ground work & cartography, all that is left to do is print it. WisDOT has offered the project to us to bring the map to a statewide audience. The project has great potential as a money maker for the BFW, but publishing a map for statewide distribution will require up-front financing that is beyond the capabilities of the BFW at this point. The project is estimated to cost at least $10,000 for an initial print run.

Since the IceBound Issue of the Wisconsin Bicyclist, another member has stepped forward with a $500 pledge for the printing of the map! Will Don Wichert of Madison please rise for a round of applause! Way to go!

So now we are 20% of the way there. If you are interested in investing in putting bicycling on the map, give BFW a call (608)251-4456.

Take a Congressman for a Hike

Ripon, WI at the head of the Winnebago Recreation Trail 1/2 mile north of Ripon on County Trunk E. Look for Locust Rd. on your right, turn right and presto, you are at the Trail Head.

You are invited to hike or bike, tour The Nature Conservancy's Owen and Anne Grome's Rush Lake Preserve, or just come to show your support for a Federal set-aside in the upcoming reauthorization of the transportation bill (ISTEA) for trails. Congressman Petri and his family will be our honored guests for this event.

State DOT Listens to Bicyclists

Recent regional public forums held as part of the DOT's Statewide Bicycle Plan development process attracted a strong and diverse turnout of more than 150 people. Useful comments heard by DOT followed two common themes- the need for more bikeways and bicycle-compatible roadways and the need for improved adherence to traffic laws that guide safe car and bike interactions.

Each of the five forums also reflected some unique regional concerns- in Waukesha it was workplace support for bicycles, in Eau Claire (where attendance included three doctors) it was the health aspects of bicycling, and in Madison it was concern over specific Plan language concerning project-by-project consideration of roadway plans.

A key purpose of the meetings was to solicit comments on the best way to plan intercity (rural) bicycle connections. Two approaches were presented by DOT. The skeletal system identified a limited number of key links between cities and larger villages and state parks. The conditions assessment approach provided county governments and DOT District offices with an assessment of the current bicycle conditions of roadways for consideration when roads are reconstructed. While these approaches generated some confusion and concern at the forums, several individuals had some excellent comments on ways to improve both approaches or combine the two.

A final draft version of the Plan will be prepared by DOT in the coming months. All participants of the meetings, as well as those sending in written responses, will be sent a summary of the final draft. More regional forums will be held when the final draft is completed. Notification of the forums will be made three to four weeks in advance so people can better plan their attendance. Additionally, there will be a 30 day comment period following the public forums to submit written comments. If you care about bicycling in Wisconsin please attend! Finally, bicycle clubs and advocacy groups deserve credit for getting a diverse group of bicyclists to attend these meetings and taking an interest in helping define the course of this plan.

An Introduction to Triathlon Training

The sport of triathlon, which started out in California almost two decades ago, will make its Olympic debut at the next Summer games; marking a coming of age for this swimming, biking and running test of endurance.

Okay, you may not be planning on a trip to Sydney for the Olympics, but triathlon training is a way to improve your fitness and boost your cycling ability. The key is a well planned cross-training regime of targeted cycling, swimming and running workouts each week.

Ideally, you should try to fit in 4 or 5 cycling workouts a week. The focus of each session should be on a different aspect of cycling. Start the week with a relaxed ride of about an hour. The next day, aim for a series of tough hill climbs and a moderate one hour ride. Follow this up with a rest day then a hard two and a half hour ride. Finish the week with another long ride of at least 3 hours followed by another rest day.

Right now you are probably thinking that this level of training is intense. Many triathletes are able to fit in the other two disciplines with a well laid out time-efficient plan that avoids "junk" mileage and wasted workouts. Basically, the main difference between the "purists" and the "wannabes" is the volume of training and the diversity. However, everyone- whether a single sport or multisport athlete- could benefit from exploring new and different types of training to compliment their fitness and achieve their goals.

Ken MacKenzie has been competing in triathlons since 1988 and is the race director for the statewide triathlon series.

History on the Military Ridge Trail!

Biking the Military Ridge trail in Dane County this summer? You may wish to visit a unique historical photography exhibit at the Mount Horeb Area Museum located close to the trail.

Over 70 fascinating pictures taken in 1899 by amateur photographer and local bicycle merchant Alva Webber are on display. At a time when most photographers used studios and props, Webber traveled the countryside recording his neighbors at work and recreation. The result is a collection of images which artistically and humorously capture everyday Mount Horeb life at the turn of the last century

Surprising evidence of the area's long cycling history appears amid the scenes and artifacts which enhance the exhibit. A century before the opening of the Military Ridge trail, the athletic "Wheelmen" competed on a half-mile bicycle racetrack in Mount Horeb, earning money by traveling from town to town in competition. A Thistle "Yellow Dog Racer" bicycle (ca. 1899) is on display at the museum, along with bicycle-related ads., including that of "A.S. Webber, Agent for Crescent Bicycles."

How to get there: The museum is located half a block from the Military Ridge bicycle trail, South Second Street, Mt. Horeb. Opening hours: 12:30-4:30 - Fri., Sat. and Sun. Admission is free. Exhibition runs through December 1997. Phone: (608)437-3645 for more information.

Governor Flunks the ISTEA Test - Bike Fed. Comment

At first glance, the position on ISTEA outlined by Governor Thompson (see letter below) seems supportive of bicyclists' needs. After all, a fairer system that gives Wisconsin more federal dollars sounds good. More money for cyclists too, right?

Well, maybe not. The problem with the so-called "Step 21" coalition - engineered in part by Wisconsin DOT and strongly supported by our Governor - is that it goes much further than seeking a fair deal for Wisconsin and other "donor" states. In fact, a basic premise of Step 21 is that federal transportation money should be allocated to states as "discretionary block grants". This approach undermines the fundamental premise of ISTEA which guarantees funding for trails, bike lanes and more.

Bike Fed of Wisconsin supports the Governor's push for a fairer deal for Wisconsin. But, much of the Step 21 platform represents a big step backwards. Instead, lets build on the progress made in the last five years by reauthorizing ISTEA without a change in direction. Why tamper with success?

Dear Concerned Bicyclist,

Thank you for your e-mail regarding your concerns about the reauthorization of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA). I appreciate the time you took to contact my office.

I certainly agree the ISTEA was landmark legislation which provided many positive changes to the federal surface transportation program. In particular, ISTEA increased state and local partnerships, enhanced the planning processes and provided more funding and greater funding equity for Wisconsin. Reauthorization must remain the integrity of the planning process. The state and local decision making process -- not mandates from Washington -- should direct how money is spent.

I am working hard to build on the strong foundation that ISTEA provided. Wisconsin's reathorization priorities are to increase the level of federal funding available for transportation, to achieve a better level of funding equity for the state, and to simplify the federal program to eliminate unnecessary mandates. A status quo bill simply does not provide the improvements that are needed.

First, the level of federal funding must increase to meet current demands of all modes, including mass transit, bike, pedestrian and highways. Second, ISTEA provided Wisconsin with slightly over a 90 percent return on each dollar in federal gas taxes it contributed. But Wisconsin citizens are not being treated fairly under ISTEA's existing funding formulas as opposed to other taxpayers in the nation. Taxpayers in Massachusetts, for example, received a return of $1.45 on highway trust fund contributions. Since 1955, Wisconsin motorists have paid $624 million more in federal gas taxes and other user fees than they've received back in federal transportation aid. I believe the next multi-year bill should guarantee each state a minimum return of 95 percent.

The STEP 21 proposal is the best vehicle to achieve funding equity. Wisconsin has supported the STEP 21 proposal as a way to express to Congress the importance of institutionalizing formula changes and structural reforms. There is a lot of misinformation about STEP 21. The proposal would maintain eligibility of nonhighway modes and give Wisconsin a greater rate of return. Funding equity is needed to protect the buying power of all revenue sources and to enable the State to keep projects on schedule. I will continue to work with our congressional delegation to get the best deal for Wisconsin and to build on the strength of ISTEA.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact my office regarding this important issue.

Sincerely,
Tommy G. Thompson
Governor
TGT/cl

February 9, 1997

Governor Thompson
WisGov@state.wi.us
State Capitol
Madison, WI

Dear Mr. Thompson,

I am writing to encourage your administration to back an effort to preserve the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA). This act provides a balanced approach to transportation funding for the first time ever in our nation's history. There are those in Washington who are acting in the interests of those who wish to dismantle ISTEA; that result would be to reward those who see transportation as a single issue: highway funding.

I support ISTEA in part because it recognizes the importance of alternatives to fossil-fuel burning automobile and truck traffic in our transportation system. Specifically: bicycle, pedestrian, and mass transit all lead to a higher quality of life for us all, and deserve appropriate consideration in an overall transportation policy.

I'm asking you to support reauthorization of ISTEA according to the prinicples attached below. I would ask that you join with the other 14 governors and contact the U.S. House leadership on this important matter.

Please let me know what action you will be taking. Thank you.

Effective Cycling Workshops - A Reminder

The League of American Bicyclists' Effective Cycling workshops are a great way for cyclists of all skill levels to learn how to ride more safely and confidently in traffic. Bike Fed of Wisconsin will be sponsoring workshops in the following locations this Spring:

Green Bay	May 31/June 1 and June 16/18/20
Madison	May 31/June 1 and June 10/12/14
Milwaukee	April 18/19 and May 23/24.

Workshops cost $35. Fee includes all course materials and Effective Cycling certification. For more information/registration, or to have a workshop in your area (min. class size: 8-12 students) contact BFW at (608)251-4456.

La Crosse Area News

The La Crosse Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee is sponsoring an area-wide Bike to Work Week May 19 to May 23. To promote the week, the Committee is holding a Bike to Work Fair on May 17 at the La Crosse City Hall. The Fair will include free bicycle inspections and tune-ups by local bicycle stores, a bikes on buses demo, a bicycle commuting display, and head injury awareness screenings and bicycle fittings. Area bicycling organizations and others are also participating. Additionally, a trail ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on May 16 for the section of the River to Bluff Trail under Copeland Avenue. Some employers in the region, such as Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, are also sponsoring their own Bike to Work Week activities.

In other news, the La Crosse School District recently received a WisDOT grant for a district summer school course based on WisDOT's "Basics of Bicycling" curriculum on bicycle safety and education. Under the district's pilot program, 40 fourth graders will participate and the district will provide helmets and bicycles to students without them.

Last but not least, BFW Board Member Dan Herber recently ran for mayor of La Crosse. Dan Herber, 25, served as a city council member from 1993-1997, and his campaign stressed his commitment to livable neighborhoods, a sustainable multi-modal transportation system and fiscal responsibility. Dan pledged that if he was elected, he would accept only a portion of the mayor's standard salary and use the remainder to sponsor improvements such as bike racks on buses and a youth skating park. Dan received 17 percent of the vote in the primary (of 7 candidates). By the general election, his campaign had gained additional support and he received over 35 percent of the vote. John Medinger, a Wisconsin state representative for 16 years and lifelong La Crosse resident, won the mayoral race.

First Pedicabs in Wisconsin Roll into Service in Green Bay

Beginning early this summer "Voyager Pedicabs" will roll into service in the greater Green Bay area. According to company owner Mike Gerke, his are the first commercially operated pedicabs in Wisconsin. Voyager is an offshoot of Gerke's Green Bay company called EZ Living which specializes in environmentally friendly services.

Gerke plans to start out slowly with two cabs operating primarily in the City of De Pere. The service will focus on tours, sightseeing and dates. It will run on weekends, nights and on an on-call basis. Depending on how well received the service is, Gerke plans to expand.

Gerke, who has done extensive research on pedicabs, says that there are about 100 pedicab companies in the United States. Most are small, ma and pa operations like his with only one or two cabs. There are about 10 large Pedicab companies which average between 10 and 20 cabs. The largest cab company is in San Diego and operates 40 cabs.

Gerke's pedicabs are made by Main Street Pedicabs in Denver, Colorado. The pedicabs have 18 speeds and can carry up to 500 pounds. The model that Gerke uses can be converted into a pickup by removing the cab and replacing it with a utility bed. Pedicabs of this type cost between $3000 to $4000 depending on options. According to Gerke, the average pedicab driver in New York City, working an eight hour shift, makes approximately $240.

For more information about Voyager Pedicabs contact Mike Gerke at: EZ Living, 209 N. Superior St., De Pere, WI 54115 or E-mail: ezliving@execpc.com.

Trails on Trial in Town of Menasha

Town of Menasha voters will be asked a question that, for some, could define the quality of life in this rapidly urbanizing town. At issue is whether town government should continue to plan and develop a system of trails that could be used by pedestrians, bicyclists and skaters. Specifically, the question reads: "should the Town of Menasha continue to plan and develop intermodal pedestrian facilities such as public trails systems on a case by case basis for bicycles and other users within the town limits?"

Opponents see the trails as an expensive boondoggle, a seasonal luxury that would overstrain tax payers for the benefit of a few outdoor health enthusiasts. Proponents see the trails not as a liability but as a financial asset. "As all the urbanized areas are expanding, the quality of life deteriorates, because you don't have ready access to greenways, said Rob Vander Velden, an Outagamie County supervisor who has championed an aggressive trail plan. "These are not new issues," said Town Administrator Bob Vitas. He worries that people will be voting on whether they want trails moving across or adjacent to private property when this is not part of the town's plan.

With more and more families moving into westside subdivisions and with churches and schools being built, some residents have been petitioning for sidewalks or striped extensions of the roadway so children would have a safe place to walk or ride. Linda Stoll, a Greenways member who is working on the Fox Cities loop, said that in other parts of the country, trails have been shown to increase the value of nearby private property. They are increasingly being used not only for recreation but for non-motorized transportation, she said.

Roland Kampo, a former town chairman and persistent trails critic, argues that the trails that advocates point to all exist in larger communities. He said that the town is too far in debt in his view to afford trails. Kampo said that trails would require continued maintenance and policing. He said there are liability questions arising from the fact that bicyclists, skaters and pedestrians would all be using the same strip of asphalt.

While trail advocates fear the referendum, Vitas said it will give town officials a feeling for the attitude of town residents toward trails. "It's a quality of life issue," he said. "A trail is a linear park. Linear parks have become a very popular type of park development, not just here but everywhere in the country." I think the question is, "what is the future vision of the community?"

Editor's note: The referendum passed and the Town of Menasha will continue to develop its trails. Other cities throughout the Fox Valley are considering similar referendums.

Executive Director's Report: What have We Done For You Lately?

To say the least, it has been a lot. The 1997 Wisconsin Bicycling Event Booklet lists over 200 bicycling events throughout the state. Find one at your local bicycle shop.

The State Bicycle Plan Committee recently conducted five regional meetings and BFW staff and members were a major influence on the discussions that took place.

Currently, BFW is working on a membership campaign. First, we will be announcing shortly the Members Get Members Campaign. The campaign will include a list of great gifts for members who bring in the most new members! Also, BFW will be sending out several direct-mail pieces. The goal is 1,000 members by the end of the summer. We are currently at 500, so this goal is very attainable!

BFW is continuing to work on bikes on buses in Milwaukee. Just imagine being able to take your bicycle on the bus. Well, BFW has teamed up with BFSEW to make these dreams a reality, funded by a grant from the WisDOT. The goal is to implement a demonstration bikes on buses project in Milwaukee. So far, BFW's efforts have focused on interviewing transit coordinators from around the country to learn about their programs. The next phase of the project will involve developing a summary report and coordinating a series of meetings with the Milwaukee Transit Company as well as other transit operators throughout Wisconsin.

A new project in Milwaukee will encourage people in the Milwaukee area to commute to work by bicycle. The project's strategy is to work with area employers to offer them educational materials and workshops related to bicycle commuting. Initial stages, include developing an employer handbook and a video for employers to share with their employees. The next phase will involve visiting Milwaukee area employers to discuss the possibility of participating in our program. We need volunteers who live in the Milwaukee area who would be willing to visit employers to tell them about the Bicycle Commute Project Program. If interested, contact the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin at 608-251-4456.

Keeping Your Components in Shape

The components of your bicycle are comprised of moving parts which need to be lubricated on a regular basis. The first level of maintenance can be done with a can of oil and a rag. Petroleum based oils, like Sturmy Archer, or synthetic based, like Tri-Flow or Superlube, work well. Motor oil is too heavy and attracts dirt which not only makes your drive train more of mess, but also wears it out faster.

Begin by lubricating all of the pivots on the front and rear derailleur with a drop or two of oil. For those who are lucky to have an internally geared three speed hub, ten to twelve drops of oil once a month is sufficient. If the shift cables passes by a cable fluid at the bottom bracket, lubricate there as well and wipe away excess oil. It is important when lubricating components to not let oil get on the sides of the rims or brake pads. Lubricate all the pivots on the brakes in the same manner. Under normal riding conditions, do this every two or three months; if you are riding in more inclement conditions, you may have to perform this every two or three weeks.

When oiling the chain, use the oils listed above or Seeds chain lubricant. Apply oil to the rollers of the chain until you have completely gone around the entire chain. Loosely wrap a rag around the lower section of the chain and, holding on to it with your left hand, pedal backwards with your right hand until the excess oil and grime are removed. For bicycles with a coaster brake, you need to pedal forward while a friend holds the back of the bike up.

In addition to lubricating the calipers and levers of the brakes, there are two more things that can be done to enhance braking. Scrub the sides of your rims with warm, soapy water and a good sponge or brush. While you are scrubbing the sides of the rims, it is also a good idea to do the sidewalls of your tires. Dish detergent works well because it does not leave a residue, and is readily available. Solvents will also work, but some will leave an oily residue.

The next item is to clean the contact surface of the brakepads. This is particularly important on bike with aluminum rims (i.e. alloy). Dirt and grit picked up by the rim becomes impregnated in the brake pad creating an abrasive surface that will erode away the sides of the rim and cause an annoying grinding sound when the brakes are applied. A couple of passes over the braking surface with either a file or a piece of emery cloth will generally fix this problem. Particles that are deeply embedded can be pried out with a straight pin or a safety pin. Despite removing a small amount of pad material, these will improve braking and save you money in costly rim replacement.

Don't forget to vote!

Tracy Zafian serves as the senior editor of the Wisconsin Bicyclist and is a regular newsletter contributor. Tracy is employed as a planner with the City of La Crosse. In that position, she works on zoning issues, neighborhood planning and downtown redevelopment projects. Tracy also serves on the La Crosse Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and assists with the implementation of the area's bicycle and pedestrian plan. Tracy has a Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Environmental Studies from Dartmouth College.

Angela Graf has years of experience as a bicycle event coordinator, fundraiser, grant writer, and financial manager for various organizations. She is currently working with the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, and Capitol Velo Club. Angela has given bicycle-commute workshops and most recently co-wrote the Madison Bicycle Commute Program, a grant proposal for the BFW. As a member of the BFW board, Angela would provide fiscal management, and organizational skills. Angela is currently employed by the Great Lakes Regional Biomass Energy Program, of the U.S. Dept. of Energy and Bryan & Bryan, an alternate transportation fuels consulting firm. Angela has been a resident of Wisconsin for the past ten years and currently lives in Madison.

Peter Flucke has served on the Board of Directors for the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin since 1994. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Bay Shore Bicycle Club and the Bicycle Safety Coalition. Peter is a certified Effective Cycling Instructor with the League of American Bicyclists and a Police Cyclist certified by the International Police Mountain Bike Association. Peter was a police officer in the state of Minnesota for six years where he spent five years as a park ranger with Hennepin Parks. While at Hennepin Parks, Peter created one of the first police bicycle patrols in the state. For the last four years Peter has been the president of WE BIKE a consulting company out of Green Bay which specializes in bicycle education, engineering and enforcement.

Arthur Ross is the current President of the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin Board of Directors, and a founding member of the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin. Arthur is a year round bicycle commuter, and has been the Pedestrian-Bicycle Coordinator for the City of Madison for the past ten years. He is also an Effective Cycling instructor and the parent of two budding bicyclists.

Chris Kegel is President of Wheel & Sprocket, which is in the top 5% of independent bicycle retailers in the country. With over 100 employees and four locations, Wheel & Sprocket supports cycling events including the Miller Lite Ride for the Arts, MAAC Fund TREK 100, MS Society, and the Fall Color Festival. Chris Kegel serves on the Executive Board of CABDA (the Chicago Area Bicycle Dealers Association) and is President of the Wisconsin Off Road Bicycle Association (WORBA). Kegel strongly believes that taking an active role in the industry is the best way to serve the interests of cycling community.

Forum For Bicycling Event Organizers

In the process of producing Wisconsin's first Bicycle Event booklet, two things became apparent to the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin (BFW):

The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin is committed to making Wisconsin a better place to bicycle. Doing so includes increasing the number of quality bicycle events throughout the state. Until now, no forum existed in Wisconsin for event directors to get together to discuss the endless obstacles that confront them

BFW will sponsor a bicycle event director discussion group at the Hartman Creek Metric Century in Waupaca on Sunday, June 8. This session is open to all bicycle ride organizers in Wisconsin. The meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. so that those attending may participate in the Hartman Creek Metric Century. Henry Kelley, Hartman Creek event director, has made arrangements for a meeting place a short distance from Hartman Creek State Park

Event directors who plan on attending this session should contact Paul Lata, Menominee River Century Chair, at (715)735-5961 (evenings) or paull@.mrnet.com.

BFW Bike Booths - A Great Way to Get Involved!

Bike season is here! BFW is looking for people to man BFW booths at bicycling events throughout the state. It's easy. Simply, give us a call and we will send you materials for you to staff a table at the event. While you staff the table, you can sign up new members at $5.00 off! That is $10 for individual and $15 for a family. Remember, by volunteering with BFW you will be eligible for a free membership! Call us at (608)251-4456!

An Update on Helmet Legislation

Few people will argue that bicycle helmets can help save lives. Two Wisconsin legislators believe a law requiring children to wear bicycle helmets will get more kids to wear helmets and therefore help save even more lives.

Senators Fred Risser and Sheldon Wasserman have each introduced bills that would make wearing a helmet mandatory for children. Risser's bill targets all people 18 years of age or younger and Wasserman's bill targets all people 12 years of age or younger. Both have proposed a fee for violating this law, but both admit they do not think that the law will be enforced.

Instead, they hope that publicity around the law will help to raise awareness of the value of wearing bicycle helmet. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the Madison Area Brain Injury Coalition and the State Medical Society of Wisconsin all support mandatory helmet legislation.

This bill requires that whenever a person 12 years of age or younger is operating a bicycle upon a highway, bicycle lane or bicycle way, the person wears an approved bicycle helmet properly fastened to his or her head. A violator may be required to forfeit not more than $20, except that no forfeiture may be assessed if the person provides proof that, within 30 days after the citation was issued, he or she purchases a helmet. The bill also authorizes cities, villages, towns, counties and other public bodies authorized to enact traffic regulations to increase the age under which a person operating a bicycle is required to wear a helmet.

This bill requires that whenever a person 18 years of age or younger (minor) is operating a bicycle upon a highway, bicycle lane or bicycle way, the person wears an approved bicycle helmet properly fastened to his or her head. The bill also prohibits parents and guardians of minors from knowingly permitting a minor to operate or ride upon a bicycle without properly wearing an approved bicycle helmet, prohibits any person from renting or leasing a bicycle for the use of a minor unles the minor is in possession of an approved bicycle helmet and prohibits any person from selling abicycle fo rthe use of a minor without fists ascertaining that the minor owns an approved bicycle helmet. A violator may be required to forfeit not more than $30, except that not forfeiture may be assessed against a parent, guardian or minor if the parent, guardian or minor provides proof that, within 30 days after the citation was issued, he or she purchased a helmet.

Helmets: Enforce or Encourage?

Helmets save lives. That much is clear. But a law mandating youth helmet use may not be the most effective means to increase overall helmet use. In fact, a youth helmet law may be counterproductive. Here's why:

Helmet laws won't be enforced. Though bicyclists are currently required to have a light on their bike at night, the law is ignored by bicyclists and law enforcement people alike. The helmet law will be even easier to enforce than the light law but does any one really think police officers will take the time to enforce this law given their other responsibilities? And if you don't enforce the law, why have it?

Helmet laws punish poor kids. Over 100,000 kids affected by Rep. Wasserman's proposal live below the poverty level. These families are faced with the prospects of choosing between basic needs and a helmet for their children . This law, in effect, bans poor kids from riding a bike.

Helmets are kid's stuff. Having a law focusing only on kids tells them that wearing a helmet is kids stuff. Won't we be seeing kids throw away their helmets as a rite of passage when they reach a certain age?

Helmet laws are barriers to bicycling. Proponents of the law cite dramatic increases in helmet use (as a percent of bicyclists) after the law is passed. The helmet law proponents do not point out that the increase is attributable to an overall decrease in bicycling. Real increases in helmet usage are only attributable to the community-wide discussion about the benefits of helmets.

Educate, Don't Legislate Here are some examples which highlight the role of education in getting helmets on kid's heads:

Instead of passing a law with dubious consequences let's gather together all the concerned parties, law enforcement, bicycling interests and health organizations to plan how we can prevent crashes and encourage helmet use.

Do you know a location where we could distribute Wisconsin Bicyclist? Is there an organization or business that would like to be on the mailing list? Would you be willing to take copies to drop-off sites in your town or city? Drop us a line! We rely on you to get the word out!

Wisconsin Bicyclist is published four times per year by the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin.

Credits

Submission Guidelines

Wisconsin Bicyclist welcomes your opinions, news, features, artwork and photograph submissions. Editorials should be no more than 300 words. News and feature stories should not exceed 600 words.

Please submit text both on disk (we have no paid typists on staff) and as hard copy. Artwork and photographs should be black and white prints. Please include name, phone number and address. We reserve the right to edit or reject all submissions. Mail to:

BFW Mission

We Need You!

As Wisconsin bicyclists, we will gain respect and build strength through organization, a clear agenda and a united voice. Our success depends upon you.

Invest in yourself, fellow bicyclists and Wisconsin. Show your commitment to making Wisconsin a great place to bicycle by becoming a Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin member today!

Discount available with your Official BFW Membership card. If the bike shops in your area are not on this list, ask them to sign up! Some restrictions apply; e.g., does not apply to bicycles at bike shops; B & B's may exclude certain weekends.

US mail:	Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin P.O. Box 1224 Madison, WI 53701-1224
Email:	bfw@mailbag.com
Phone:	608-251-4456

Executive Editor:	Tracy Zafian
Senior Editor:	Joe Crossett
Copy Editors:	Mary Braun, Joe Crossett
Layout Editor:	Victoria Horn
Production Manager:	Help Wanted!
Circulation Manager:	Robbie Webber
Ad Sales:	Jeanne Hoffman
Graphics:	Dieter Bingemann
Contributors:	Michael Barrett, Joe Crossett, Peter Flucke, Jeanne Hoffman, Tom Huber, Kit Keller, Paul Lata, Scott McCollum, Ken MacKenzie, Steve Meiers, George Perkins, Heather Putnam, Tracy Zafian

Icebound Issue	Feb. 15
Spring Issue	April 15
Summer Issue	May 30
Fall Issue	Aug. 10

Bike Shop	City	Telephone
Adventure Cycle & Fitness	Green Bay	414-494-8447
Adventure Cycle & Fitness	De Pere	414-336-9164
Appleton Bicycle Shop	Appleton	414-733-2595
Brookfield Cycle & Fitness	Brookfield	414-781-3151
Bahnhof Sport	Mequon	414-241-9470
Bodin's On the Lake	Ashland	715-682-6441
Budget Bicycle Center	Madison	608-251-8413
Competition Cycle Services	Sheboygan Falls	414-467-0880
Connor's Bed & Breakfast	Cable	800-848-3932
Cycle Smith	Hartland	414-367-9121
Dyckesville Cycle	Luxemburg	414-866-9138
Emery's Cyclery	Milwaukee	414-463-0770
Emery's Cyclery II	Menomonee Falls	414-255-0770
Fox River Sports & Spas	Waukesha	800-544-5502
Free Flight Bikes	Platteville	608-348-6888
Haack's Cycle	Janesville	608-756-0717
Haack's Cycle	Madison	608-241-2138
Haack's Cycle	Madison	608-833-0040
In Competition	Green Bay	414-465-1510
Jammer Sports	Wausau	715-355-4844
JB Cycle & Sport	Green Bay	414-434-8338
Marinette Cycle Center	Marinette	715-735-5442
Maximum Performance	Neenah	414-722-5991
Maxson's Inc	Eagle River	715-479-4533
Michael's Cycles	Janesville	608-752-7676
Mokros Cycle	Waukesha	414-521-1300
Perkins Sports	Marshfield	715-384-8313
Quiet Hut Sports	Whitewater	414-473-2950
Quiet Woods Bed & Breakfast	Mazomanie	608-795-4954
Rainbow Jersey	Shorewood	414-961-1110
Riverside Bike & Skate	Menomonie	715-235-9697
Riverside Bike & Skate	Eau Claire	715-835-0088
Scotty's Bike Rental & Sales	Tomahawk	715-453-1888
Smith's Cycle and Fitness	La Crosse	608-784-1175
Stoton Cycle	Stoughton	608-877-1134
Sun City Cyclery	Sun Prairie	608-837-2453
Superior Sports	Superior	715-394-5600
Team Sports	Waukesha	414-549-6801
Wandering Wheels Cyclery	Milwaukee	414-466-0358
Wheel & Sprocket	Milwaukee	414-247-8100
White River Cycle	Iron River	715-372-4077
Williamson Bicycle Works	Madison	608-255-5292

Wisconsin Bicyclist

Volume 3, No. 2

Springforth, 1997

Table of Contents

Amtrak Burns Bridge to Bicyclists in Favor of Smokers