Kuroneko Delivery Bicycles with Trailers

I had been meaning to upload something about the Kuroneko electric bike + delivery trailer system, but found this, so I am just going to show you this gentleman's video instead.

The system itself has been around for a few years now. I thought it was only rolled out in the inner city where streets are narrow and fairly dense, but it looks like they are doing it elsewhere also, which is great.



As some readers will know, my wife and I used a Japanese electric bicycle + child trailer for several years to take the kids around town without a car and it was really fantastic. I sometimes wonder how good these trailer hitches on the Kuroneko trailers are so high up under the seat there, but the kuroneko guys seem to use them just fine.

There are a number of other companies that also use electric bicycles and trailers in Japan these days and it is fantastic to see. It really does save these companies a bucket load of money, is good for the environment, and keeps the couriers very fit. I have seen them running mountain races in their uniforms - rightfully proud of their extra fitness.

Architect's urban living guide doesn't include cars

From the Miami Herald - introducing Andrés Duany and his book "The Smart Growth Manual"

Why this is on the "Arts" page and not the cover page of course is a question that we will probably have to answer to future generations.

http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/arts/v-fullstory/story/1419660.html

Short piece, and well worth a read. Discusses the "New Urbanism" movement, why many are now saying it's best if we just leave the Prius at home, and a few other prominent American writers on the topic.