I think the prime factor that made me want to get back into cycling as a middle-aged man, was the fond memories and freedom I knew as a child on my bike.
What's sad is, I rarely see kids out on bikes these days.
As a child, not only was a bike fun; Not only was it practical transportation (Forget about being chauffeured around by parents; we didn't even have a car!); but it was something which taught a love of freedom and independence; and responsibility (A few blocks or a few miles from home, yopu were on your own, and your safety was your own responsibility).
I'll never, ever forget those days!