In just a few weeks, the city of Paris will be debuting their new Cyclocity program, putting thousands of rental bikes at locations across the city. Though credit card information is required to rent a bike, the first half hour of each rental is free. Because most rides in the city are under a half hour, users of the system will essentially be able to commute and only pay a negligible fee. By implementing the program, the city hopes to reduce pollution and noise and create a slower paced, more relaxed feel.

France's third largest city, Lyon, put the system into place two years ago and it's been a huge success. I can only imagine, because I think it's a fabulous idea. Less carbon monoxide being spewed into the air, less traffic noise, and all those people out getting fit on their daily commute -- sounds perfect! In testing, city leaders found that when comparing commute by car, bus, biking, or walking, biking was the fastest form of travel in the city.

Cyclocity hasn't caught on in the U.S. yet, but some cities, like Portland, have tried similar programs. And at least one blogger is pushing her city leaders to adopt the program in Chicago, so maybe Americans may get a shot at this program yet!