FredCast listener Henry just returned from Paris and reports on the new rental bikes available around the City of Light. He writes

These new rental bikes seemed to be very popular when I was in Paris last week. They come with built-in generator and front & rear lights (not bright enough, IMHO), as well as hand brakes. I don’t think they have more than one speed, but I didn’t try one myself, so I don’t know for sure. No helmets, however. I hope that this system works, so that it will be copied in other cities (although hopefully with brighter lights & helmets).

For more information visit: www.velib.paris.fr (French language only)

Meanwhile, here’s an article> that says that Chicago’s Mayor Richard Daley is looking into just such a program for the windy city.