City bicycle loaners more than doubled

As gas prices continue to cripple drivers' gas budgets, some local bicycle programs are looking to help bikers here and abroad.

The city's Free Wheelin' program, which allows the use of free bikes for puttering around the city, is now being offered through Aug. 31. Last year, the service was used about 80 times, but the usage has already more than doubled this year.

Capital Bicycles Inc. runs the program now and six bikes are available for 12-hour spans at City Dock, near the harbormaster's office. An additional location could be coming soon.

The demand for bikes also could give another tourist...