Today is primary day in Colorado. That might not seem related to bikes in Copenhagen, but while those of us with a pound of brains and an ounce of forethought draw encouragement from the example of European cities that are leading the way in embracing the freedom and livability of bike-friendly streets, some in the Governor’s race perceive a hidden agenda in the growing bike movement to spin the US toward UN control and socialism (yes, seriously.)

This film, by Streetfilms’ Clarence Eckerson (whom you might remember from his “Bike Move” film, featured on The Collective), offers a comprehensive look at what bike utopia looks like. Separated bike lanes, dedicated bike signals, considerate drivers: the cycling infrastructure of Denmark’s capital makes Portland look like L.A. And the proof is in the numbers: one counter erected on Copenhagen’s busiest bike street clocks over 30,000 riders per day. Per day.

It’s a model that allows children to ride to school and adults to leave the Styrofoam headgear at home. And best of all, it’s a local solution that each of us can help implement in our own towns and cities. So watch the film; then find your local bicycle advocacy group and get involved. (Or, if you’re in Colorado, go vote). Because, whatever one candidate for Governor might say, that’s how democracy works.