Thanks for that.
When I started this forum a year ago I really wasn't sure who would join (if anyone) and what 'sort of' cyclist would join.
I had spoken to a small number of 'bicycle people' who seemed to think it was a good idea.
They still post here.
In addition it seems to have attracted a smallish group of regular posters who add anecdotes and entertainment.
There are others who post occasionally on certain topics.
In addition there are clearly a lot of 'watchers' (I think "lurkers" is less complimentary). A large proportion have Edinburgh ISPs though this site has 'fans' around the world.
I am pleased that many posters are "bicycle commuters". There is a disproportionately large percentage who ride 'funny bike's (some people say I do too - but not that sort...)
There are also some who like riding hundreds of miles in the pouring rain.
There are a lot of people who own cars and (allegedly) white vans.
'Traditionally' - i.e. the last 33 years. Spokes has spearheaded much of the 'bicycle campaigning' in/around Edinburgh. In campaigning/voluntary sector terms this is a highly succesful organisation which not only still exists, it has never had paid staff and has made a real difference to cycle policies and provision on the ground.
In general his has been achieved by a fairly small number of individuals.
There is a widely held view that there too many cycling organisations. But the people who think that (for instance) Sustrans, CTC, Cycling Scotland, Scottish Cycling etc should merge or "speak with one voice" doesn't understand 'cycling'.
People ride bikes for sport, leisure and transport AND all three - and (mostly) fun.
In general I think it would better to work with/through Spokes. There are people would like to see it being more like the London Cycle Campaign with more members, paid staff and a glossier magazine.
London is a lot bigger than Edinburgh and whether LCC is more effective in campaigning/lobbying terms would be hard to quantify.
One of the effective ways Spokes works is by persuading lots of people to write/email to councillors, MSPs etc.
This forum has on many occassions highlighted issues where a number of people have sent messages to their politicians and then posted some of the replies.
There is a Holyrood election next May so it's worth thinking about contacting your current MSPs.
I'm sure that there will be plenty of scrutiny about how 'cycle friendly' the candidates for election are.
One problem is that 'we' understand how important cycling is, but too many politicians just regard 'us' as a minority.
Perhaps all communications with politicians should start with "I'm a motorist but..."
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