The Last Rebels

We seem to have a shortage of rebels in this day and age. Punk rock now sings "We're a happy family" without the irony. Nobody crashes their cars in pointless car races anymore (except in Tokyo, apparently). Even New York City cab drivers have calmed down--one of them actually slowed to let me cross the street this morning.

It would be a tragic state, except for one lone group, which bravely continues to fight hard against The Man.

Bicyclists.

Bicyclists obey no law, and recognize no authority. One way street? Great, go the other way. Red light? Excellent, charge ahead. Street a little too crowded with cars for lane-weaving? Well, the sidewalk's right there! Pedestrian stepping out into the street as the little man in the light instructs her to? Mow her down! Brakes are for wusses and slow you down. Signalling makes you predictable. And besides, you need those hands to make obscene gestures at those yuppies that yell at you.