Increase in bikes requires change in people's thinking

Montreal (in Quebec!) has Bixi bikes though which have proven to be very popular and will now be offered in Toronto, too. For some reason, the Toronto Bicycle Union thinks that would be great for tourists to go sightseeing. Personally, I don't think any sane tourist will go on a bike ride unless they see a certain number of local cyclists, for me an indicator for how

safe and convenient cycling in this location is. 

I do love cycling and I enjoy cycling even in Edmonton, although I mostly cycle in the river valley where I hit no roads. But the comments I hear are surprising, as I would not get those in Europe where walking and cycling is far more wide-spread. Some people just admire me (for being "brave" and fit), others are scared especially about baby's safety in the trailer (what if a car bumps into it? - I know you are poor driver, is that why you freak at the sight of a cyclist on the road?), some people think I'm enduring a lot of hardship living with alternatives to driving a car.Actually, you should feel sorry for yourself for depending on that fossil fuel consuming metal box so much.

An acquaintance reported from her daughter who studies in the Netherlands that she really enjoys it. She can hop on a bike or train and go places so easily. She went to some event by train recently and got all caught up in the festive atmosphere on the train. Surely, that's not going to happen to car drivers stuck in a traffic jam wanting to attend that event.