52 26 Suicidal

…well, not really. On the other hand: today was the first time ever I did Paris on a bike. To some people Paris by car is suicide, let alone on a bike. But it’s very easy actually. Rent a bike. A Velib to be precise. It’s one of those rent-a-bikes, but at no charge when the bike is returned within 30 minutes. Set a simple route, check if there’s a Velib station near / at your destination. The only things to be aware of are:

a – a bus lane is most of the times shared with bikes (and taxis, other bikes and an occassional car, police car or medics)
b – streets and avenues not suitable for bikes are marked at the beginning of the street (a small sign saying that the bus lane is not to be used by bikers)
c – in case no dedicated bike lane is available, use the curb or the street. Whichever feels more comfortable and whatever is available.
d – the speed of the traffic lights is based on cars. If a traffic light is orange, for heaven’s sake; hit the brake. Don’t go on, you might be hit by traffic from any side you can think of. And also from the sides you would have never considered.

For the rest of it: a Sunday morning is the best time to hop on a bike.

But, I survived, had a great time on the bike, and will do it again for sure!

More info to be found at www.velib.paris.fr

52 26 Suicidal, originally uploaded by Stewart Leiwakabessy. 29th June, 2008 — ©Stewart Leiwakabessy

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