Good news/bad news from Chicago - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

11-19-2004, 04:14 AM

I saw two stories here this week that might be of interest to others.

Chicago has many drawbridges with metal grate lanes. I ride over this
stuff every day, and although you get used to it, I don't think anyone
likes it. Bikes seem to shimmy and the surface feels slippery when wet.
The city has installed a new surface for cyclists where Wells Street
crosses the Chicago River. It is a five-foot-wide strip of textured metal
that bolts to the grating. I was very skeptical that a metal surface would
feel secure, but it is said to be designed for this. I rode over it in
light rain earlier this week and it seemed pleasant and safe. There was
too much traffic to play around on it or try to skid, though. Have other
places tried this? I'd be curious if anyone has experience with a non-skid
metal surface. The bridge on Wells is intended as a test and this might be
used on other bridges if cyclists like it.

The bad news here is that 108 manhole covers have been stolen in Chicago
so far in November. The city says it is replacing them as fast as they are
reported, but someone has to be the first the notice each new uncovered
hole. I'd like to think a cyclist couldn't miss something like that, but
it's still dark when a lot of people start out in the morning and there
are a lot of things competing for attention. I hope this isn't happening
everywhere. The thieves deserve a headfirst visit to the sewers.

--
Paul Turner