Some details to begin with

This is my first entry on the blog and I want to say that to start with, although it might sound silly, I hesitated choosing my picture. You maybe think that this is not important, but the fact is that I follow some blogs that are written by very active cyclists and I am not. I have ride my bike in different urban environments, however, currently I am  not an active cyclist. I do not ride my bike frequently because the distance between my home and the university (which is mostly my routine) is not more than 10 minutes walking.

Although not an active cyclists I am carrying out a research about cycling and how perception and attitudes are linked to the intention to commute by bike. I believe that the study of cycling should not be limited to experienced cyclists, and in fact I strongly support that all kind of citizens (as road users) must be encourage to learn, understand, promote and criticize this sustainable mode of transport. That is the reason I choose a random picture that will not have an impact in reader's perception about my statements on cycling, which I will always try to make as objective as possible.

Regarding the title of this blog and its purpose as mentioned before, I am studying cycling in my PhD inspired by idea of a more livable city. I was born in Mexico City, which is a megacity where I have seen the negative effects from an inefficient public transport and the increase of car use and the high level of stress in the population as a result. I want to contribute to my city and to the society in general, studying the barriers for cycling in cities and what governmental interventions are the most appropriate to change peoples behaviour, attitudes and perception about cycling, because I consider that cycling is very important for the present and the future. 

I  will make some reflections about academic papers, governmental measures, public ideas, slogans, news and images about cycling which I hope would be enjoyable for the readers. Any reference, critic, comment, and contribution in general is welcome. And finally, I apologize in advance if there are some grammar mistakes since English is my second language and I am still working for improving it.

Regards,

Mag