David and Roger,

Wishing and hoping that drivers would respect bicyclists on the road is not the same as it actually being so. The fact remains that we live in a culture that does not want to "share the road". Perhaps with a generation's worth of education, you may witness a shift in the ethic, but it certainly will not happen overnight. David, you've been complaining for years about driver arrogance and rudeness to bikers. Have you seen a change? Have you been able to implement any eductional program that would facilitate a change? No. Education is a wonderful solution in theory, but in practice it is a non-starter. You must grow up in a culture that shares the road (enculturation), because trying to teach an old dog new tricks (acculturation) doesn't work.
Also, you both make the point that any "serious cyclist" would much prefer to travel on the road with the cars. That's fine, they are welcome to do so. I'd suggest though that the proponents of the bike path are not concerned with the serious cyclist, but the multitudes of inexperienced cyclists (e.g. children, families of 5, the elderly, etc). Furthermore, I'd guess that travel for both cars and "serious cyclists" would be enhanced by moving the six abreaast wobbley wheels to a bike path. I, personally, have no problem waiting until the road straightens out to pass bikers (I drive slowly and carefully), even when they are waving me past on a blind corner. But I'd say that I'm in the minority. Many of my Chappy neighbors are not so patient (bike path opponents and proponents alike), as I've witnessed frequently. Ultimately, the expepeienced cyclist and the considerate driver are in the minority on Chappy -- what then to do with the rest of them?
And a quick comment to Lionel -- I agree with your position regarding the generosity of Chappy, but take some exception to you giving that honor to the bike path opponents. Really? Is that a fair characterization? Please don't go too far in your attempts to apply sainthood to your cause. For the record: My family has been very generous -- and we are in favor of the bike path. 
Brad
Posted by Brad Woodger on Monday, 1/5/09 @ 11:11am