February 18, 2007

Do you see any difference in the different countries you train in terms of bike friendliness?

It really depends in which specific location we are riding. Overall, though, people in Europe are more aware of cyclists, just because there are more of them. Here you see cyclists in some centers, but generally not many commute by bike and drivers are a little more aggressive and impatient.

Why do you think that is?

Because this is a cultural society that was set up for cars, and it is easier to drive than to get on a bike. Distances are greater here and there aren’t as many bike paths, that sort of thing. So it’s just easier to jump in a car.

Is this similar in Canada?

Yes, it is.

You rode over Golden Gate Bridge yesterday, did you have any trouble?

Well, it is a tourist attraction and so many people ride over it for that reason alone. But we just took it easy and we were well aware of the other cyclists, so it isn’t that big of an issue.

What do you think is more dangerous: Riding ion heavy traffic or at the end of a race in the field?

If you are aware riding in heavy traffic it’s not that dangerous. In a bunch sprint we are riding a lot faster, too. I wouldn’t go 60 Kilometer’s per hour in heavy traffic, so I think a bunch sprint is definitely more dangerous.

Any goals for you personally for the Tour of California?

Yeah, we really hope to pull off a few wins as a team. I have been training well, so I hope to do some good performances as well.

Thanks a lot and good luck.