Post by Wines Not Whines on Jun 18, 2012 8:48:24 GMT -5
I never thought about the fact that cyclists can't go as fast as they'd like on a trail with a bunch of pedestrians on it, which is why they ride on the road instead. That's a good point.
I still don't understand why cyclists ride 2-3 across instead of single file on a road with no shoulder, which makes it nearly impossible for cars to safely pass them. Is it proper ettiquette to ride single file on a road like this?
I still don't understand why cyclists ride 2-3 across instead of single file on a road with no shoulder, which makes it nearly impossible for cars to safely pass them. Is it proper ettiquette to ride single file on a road like this?
State law (in Alabama, at least) allows for two cyclists to ride next to each other. So here, if they are riding two across they are within their legal right to do so. Not sure what other state laws say.
I never thought about the fact that cyclists can't go as fast as they'd like on a trail with a bunch of pedestrians on it, which is why they ride on the road instead. That's a good point.
I still don't understand why cyclists ride 2-3 across instead of single file on a road with no shoulder, which makes it nearly impossible for cars to safely pass them. Is it proper ettiquette to ride single file on a road like this?
The multi-purpose trails scare me, there are "rules" but a lot of people not following them.
I'm not sure what the rules are here regarding riding single file, but I always do unless we're on an empty road. I have no problem sharing.
I still don't understand why cyclists ride 2-3 across instead of single file on a road with no shoulder, which makes it nearly impossible for cars to safely pass them. Is it proper ettiquette to ride single file on a road like this?
State law (in Alabama, at least) allows for two cyclists to ride next to each other. So here, if they are riding two across they are within their legal right to do so. Not sure what other state laws say.
Yep, two abreast is the law in most states. It's actually easier for a car to pass 6 cyclists riding 2x2 than riding single file since it's a shorter distance to pass. I've done it in my car many times. FWIW, I don't know of any states that REQUIRE cyclists to ride on the shoulder. Road shoulders are not designed to be ridden in or driven on. There is a lot of debris, and they are not usually well maintained by the local Dept. of Transportation. Riding on the shoulder many times is dangerous for a cyclist.
... I still don't understand why cyclists ride 2-3 across instead of single file on a road with no shoulder, which makes it nearly impossible for cars to safely pass them. Is it proper ettiquette to ride single file on a road like this?
We have some designated routes (specifically the curvy mountain roads) where single-file laws apply. They are signed as such and in those cases the cyclists must ride in single file when cars are present. On other roads they are usually allowed to ride two abreast. The bunches of 20+ riders taking over a whole lane are usually doing so illegally unless there is some permitted event.
I love cyclists. I am married to a cyclist. But I also think it is a dangerous activity in some circumstances and towing a kid on a HIGHWAY is irresponsible. An adult assumes the risk of bad drivers when he chooses to use the roads. A baby doesn't get to make that choice. Babies on trails, fine. On neighborhood roads where people go 35 MPH, OK. But on a highway? People think that's fine?
Post by SusanBAnthony on Jun 18, 2012 17:42:04 GMT -5
I have never questioned biking with the kids on busier roads until this thread. I have always lived in bike friendly cities (small college towns and Mpls, which I think is usually top 1 or 2 in the country). Anyway, maybe it is a matter of where you are from, but I have tons of friends who ride with their kids on regular busy roads on a regular, if not daily, basis. Different strokes, I guess.
Post by SusanBAnthony on Jun 18, 2012 18:28:26 GMT -5
Also, does anyone have any data on the relative risks of biking on various roads vs, say, drowning in a pool or a car accident on the freeway, or whatever else the top reasons kids get injured or killed? Because without that data it is kind of hard to reach any relevant conclusions.
Susan - I don't have any data, but my anecdotal experience is that people tend to judge harshly anything they don't do themselves. I don't think you're a bad mom for teaching your kids about alternative transportation, and I think it's sad that we are so reliant on our cars in the US that we consider most non-auto transportation to be dangerous or unfeasible most of the time. (Also that we don't automatically create separate avenues for cars, pedestrians, and bikes, but that's anther story.)
Post by punkinbutter on Jun 18, 2012 21:10:52 GMT -5
Sorry, I didn't mean for this to turn into hate on the cyclists. I get frustrated when cyclists and drivers create unsafe conditions. I find it especially frustrating when I don't see any logic behind what they are doing. I come here to see if people can point out what I'm missing.
Post by foundmylazybum on Jun 19, 2012 6:57:12 GMT -5
Just to answer your question clearly so you can walk away with a logical answer:
They are training on the windy road to simulate race conditions, and build endurance and strength. It is enjoyable to them. They have a right to be there--and YOU must share the road with them.
I keep thinking about your comment that "they are putting training above safety."
To me I feel like cyclists in your area must put a lot of TRUST in the people in their community and feel like they are a part of the community for you to see so many people out there enjoying the space and outdoors.
Where I live now--it is downright dangerous for runners and cyclists to be on the roads. There is one path, and very--VERY few bike lanes. I have had people look right at me and zoom closer to me! You barely see ANYONE out running or cycling. It makes me sad.
It honestly is kind of upsetting to hear people complain about people wanting to exercise! Come visit a place where it's freaking HARD to find those places. The community feels a little smaller.
Really folks, why so much hatred for cyclists? I don't get it. Are they personally harming you? Have you been injured by a cyclist?
This I don't cycle, to be quite honest, unless I am on a beach cruiser on the boardwalk I flat out hate cycling, but my honey, my friends, and so many in my community cycle! I love supporting everyone who cycles, just as I hope they support me in the activity I chose to participate in.
i dont know, i guess if someone, whether they're driving, cycling, running, walking, or using any other form of transportation, is using the road in an appropriate, legal way, i really dont care. even if they get in my way - i mean, if im running, in likely in their way too, even though we are both obeying the law.
i dont know, i guess if someone, whether they're driving, cycling, running, walking, or using any other form of transportation, is using the road in an appropriate, legal way, i really dont care. even if they get in my way - i mean, if im running, in likely in their way too, even though we are both obeying the law.
I always think these threads are weird...
"Why are cyclists using the roads I want to drive on?" Shit people they pay the same taxes to maintain them as you do.