Montreal Article Missed "Bicycle Bob"
I eagerly read Austin Macdonald’s article, “Montreal,” (Issue #40, July/Aug 09) because my family and I had just returned from glorious rides in this year’s Tour de Nuit and Tour de l’Isle. I enjoyed Austin’s piece, but as a former Montrealer, I was disappointed that it did not mention that famous cycling advocate, ‘Bicycle Bob’ Silverman. ‘Bicycle Bob’ is an essential part of the history behind Montreal’s current progressive cycling policy.
In September, 2007, Josh Fred wrote in the Montreal Gazette: “Bob was an early biking fanatic who broke onto the scene in the 1970s with madman antics” that included guerrilla attacks on the ‘auto-cracy.’ “They painted bike paths in the dead of night to wake up bureaucrats who thought bike paths were for psychopaths. Bob even dressed up as Moses and tried to ‘part’ the St. Lawrence River, so hemmed-in bikers could escape the island.”
I spoke to “Bicycle Bob” during a Montreal Critical Mass ride two years ago. At that time he was 74 and I was thrilled to see he was still on the job!
Bernard Bloom
Edmonton, AB
Thanks for pointing that out Bernard. We will see what we can find out about Bicycle Bob for next issue. – Eds
Serendipity
“Serendipity” is the best word to describe my discovery of your magazine. I uncovered a copy of the May/June issue that was in a stack of reading material at lunch time today and I am impressed! I only wish I had been fortunate enough to find your magazine earlier.
As a bike commuter and an employee of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District, I’m always heartened to find others who seek alternatives to the automobile. Your magazine is a fun, smart and inspiring. Thanks for your effort and keep up the good work.
James K. Allison
Alameda, CA
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