BikePortland.org: The Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA) issued a press release today stating their formal opposition to a proposal that would require all bicycle owners in the state of Oregon (over the age of 18) to register their bicycles. A good report on KGW-TV also came out recently on this (be sure to watch the video). It’s plain wrong-headed, and probably illegal, to force cyclists to “pay twice” for road maintenance, since most of us also drive cars and pay the usual taxes. Fergitabouddit!

As a followup to our note the other day on high school mountain biking classes in Bellingham, here’s a report from California along similar lines: “Southern California’s brand-spanking-new high school MTB league ushered in a new era for the sport last weekend with a strong turnout and stiff competition in its inaugural race, while its big-brother NorCal league drew an unprecedented turnout for its season-starting event.” This is just soooo encouraging. Cycling keeps kids busy and away from the drug scene, promotes health and self-sufficiency and is fun as well! There’s something bigger going on here too, related to cycling’s general resurgence on a number of fronts. The “simple sport” has found its time and place!

Feed the Habit: “Now that there is some renewed confidence in the US dollar, we are passing the benefits of a lower Euro on to the consumer” said Manfred Krikke, CEO of Veltec Sports. “A tough economic environment causes a lot of stress for consumers and retailers and riding is a great way to blow off some steam. Great fitting shoes are essential to a good riding experience. As the most experienced riders all know, a Sidi shoe fits like a glove and lasts for years.” I think we’ll be seeing more of this in today’s deflationary economy. Watch for lower prices particularly on spendy components, high-end frames and clothing.

Now get out ‘n RIDE!