An argument concludes that a city's new bicycle lane program is successful because bicycle sales have increased. Which of the following would MOST effectively weaken this conclusion?
A
Data showing a general national trend of increased bicycle sales during the same period.
B
Evidence that the city's bus ridership has also increased significantly.
C
A survey indicating most new bike owners primarily use them for recreation outside the city.
D
Statistics on the average age of bicycle purchasers in the city.
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
If new bike owners use their bicycles primarily outside the city, the increase in sales does not necessarily reflect the success of *the city's* bicycle lane program, suggesting an alternative reason for the sales increase.
💡 Why is C) the correct answer?
The correct answer to the question "An argument concludes that a city's new bicycle lane program is successful because bicycle sales have increased. Which of the following would MOST effectively weaken this conclusion?" is Option C: A survey indicating most new bike owners primarily use them for recreation outside the city..
The other options — A) Data showing a general national trend of increased bicycle sales during the same period., B) Evidence that the city's bus ridership has also increased significantly., D) Statistics on the average age of bicycle purchasers in the city. — are incorrect for this GRE Exam Prep question. As explained above: If new bike owners use their bicycles primarily outside the city, the increase in sales does not necessarily reflect the success of *the city's* bicycle lane program, suggesting an alternative reason…
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