The Exploration of a Larger Idea

Minneapolis, MN. A city I live, work, play, and study in.

*Note – “bike� – has not been included in this list of verbs.*

“Respect the Spoke� is a response to a social design issue a peer and I identified last semester in ID Studio XII. When asked to be an advocate for something in the Twin Cities area, I decided what better than to be an advocate for one’s own passion: biking.

As we all know biking as a means of transportation to combat pollution, gas prices, and traffic congestion – just to name a few – is becoming more and more popular throughout the world. Cities such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen have understood this concept for some time now with infrastructure to support over 500,000 cyclists on the streets every day (this is 36% of 1.7 million citizens in Copenhagen, Denmark). It’s not uncommon to see a Danish man or woman riding their bike, with groceries, talking on the telephone, smoking a cigarette, while toting three small children. Why then can it be so common and appreciated in come cultures while in other societies not even be considered as a way to commute to work, school, or leisure activities?

Infrastructure supporting Danish appreciation for biking in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Upon my return from Europe one of the first things I ran out and did was buy a bike. A real beauty too: an old-time Cruzer Huffy complete with a white leather spring seat. However, to my dismay I quickly learned that my effortless biking abilities in a city double the size of Minneapolis would not transfer back to the United States. I wondered how this could be possible, and after the initial frustration faded, I decided to make a statement last Fall in Uptown.

I installed a response to a social design issue: Respect the Spoke. An idea in support of the biker identity in Minneapolis, MN. Bikers in Minnesota not only have to put up with few (and unsafe) bike lanes, but they also deal with harsh winter elements 9 months out of the year. My design – a new and improved bike rack – addresses the latter of the two concerns. The graphic identity also creates awareness of the importance of biking to the Minneapolis population.

The Problem

Possible Solutions

After the mock-up was installed I watched as passers-by noticed the new design. Responses were positive, and many appreciated my efforts – but did they really?

A simple Google search will bring up countless articles regarding concepts and urban planning solutions to better the biking situation in Minneapolis – my question is “When?�

Be an advocate for your right to bike!

Sources: http://cycleliciousness.blogspot.com