Having seen the light while studying abroad in Amsterdam, Nick Martens contrasts that bicycle Nirvana with the American cycling cesspool.

"Of the many complaints an American cyclist can make, a concern over his or her safety is the most serious. It’s also the best reason to stick with a car.

Safety equipment is not the answer to this problem; it’s a symptom of it."

http://bygonebureau.com/2008/08/25/the-problem-with-biking/