Most fellow cyclists rude, arrogant jerks
J.M. Schell, Arvada
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Like Lori Roenfeldt ("Bicyclists entitled to be on the road, too," June 16), I too am a cyclist. One thing that always strikes me about so many of my "fellow" cyclists that Roenfeldt is apparently not cognizant of, is how rude and arrogant cyclists tend to be.
I mostly ride the metro area's extensive trails and paths and I try to extend every courtesy to others. I rarely encounter fellow cyclists with the same view, though. Rather, I see them rocketing silently out of darkened underpasses causing elderly strollers to leap into the brush alongside the path and rushing in silence up behind unsuspecting families with pets and small children, never uttering a word of warning nor braking as they whoosh past in a furious flurry of clownish Day-Glo Spandex.
These wannabe Lance Armstrongs, glowering in sneering superiority from their wheeled perches obviously believe their self-exalted position exempts them from common courtesy. From my own experience, their attitudes are, if anything, even worse on the streets.
There's a very, very good reason so many view those of us who are cyclists as rude, arrogant jerks. Most of us are.
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June 19, 2008
12:25 a.m.
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clyde writes:
A stick in the spokes works wonders...
June 19, 2008
12:38 a.m.
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clyde writes:
If they get close enough to scare Granny and she jerks and her cane accidentally gets caught in their spokes, it's just as good. Just go to Cherry Creek and see all these arrogant riders on the road rather than their specially-constructed bike paths.
June 19, 2008
12:40 a.m.
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skeptical writes:
Try walking along Boulder Creek path between Foothills and any point west and you will agree with the letter writer.
If a cyclist will simply give a "heads up" warning when approaching someone, pedestrian or slower cyclist, it would solve much of the problem.
June 19, 2008
4:38 a.m.
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politwriter writes:
How often have you seen pedestrians sauntering down the bike path, 2 abreast and oblivious to the rest of the world, including bike traffic? A toot of the horn from behind doesn't often even prompt them to move. A verbal warning "on your left" often causes them to turn around in wonderment or move to the left. Often they don't move because they don't understand English.
June 19, 2008
5:21 a.m.
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Cyclist2008 writes:
Not all cyclist are bad. For instance, check out this network, a bunch of great cyclist.
http://cyclistsusa.ning.com/
June 19, 2008
5:56 a.m.
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Gandalf writes:
The cyclists who are the most dangerous are the ones who ride the roads and think that the rules of the road, which they are required by law to follow, don't apply to them. I almost ran over one at a four-way stop sign when she did not honor right-of-way rules and blew right through the intersection. She is lucky that I have good reflexes and escaped with her life, for my 92 year old grandmother (yes she still drives) would have run her down.
June 19, 2008
6:16 a.m.
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yaakovwatkins writes:
The law (at least used to) required a horn or bell on any bike on a road.
June 19, 2008
6:42 a.m.
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plotz writes:
When I grew up in Denver during the 60's...cyclists used to use a horn to warn others, used the old hand signals used by drivers to tells others they were turning, etc. They also had to have license and plates similar to cars. Also, most cyclists then were kids, a few adults and rode at a nice pace. Now insane speeds are set by cyclist's on paths where people are known to walk and kids play. In short, cyclists then had respect for others. Not so now. Xtreme sports, drinks, thinking has led to Xtreme stupidity on many people and they think all of the world is for them. People who are injured by them...should get a shark lawyer and sue them. Also, go to martial store or over the internet and get those items that are like sharp like stars and puncture their tires. If not, legal. civilized means will curb their behavior...then militancy is necessary.
June 19, 2008
7:02 a.m.
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Eli writes:
"Also, go to martial store or over the internet and get those items that are like sharp like stars and puncture their tires."
Good God man, what an idiotic statement. It's true a lot of cyclists are wreckless, there is no denying that. But calls for puncturing tires? "Militancy is necessary"? Get real.
How should we handle enraged drivers? Shoot them in the face through the windshield?
June 19, 2008
7:02 a.m.
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Katoom writes:
I'm a cyclist and I couldn't agree more. It is even worse in the mountains. The Colorado Trail between Kenosha Pass and Georgia Pass is impossible to hike due to mountain bikers. Funny thing though, when some of the same trails were open to motorized use there wasn't a problem, the dirt bike and Jeep crowd was always polite. The standard mountain bike greeting to a hiker is usually "out of the way m f."
June 19, 2008
7:31 a.m.
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JYP3500 writes:
J.M.Schell, I couldn’t agree with you more. I walk or run sections of the Highline canal on a daily basis. This is a dirt path full of walkers, joggers, families, horses, etc. About half the bikers are the rude, Lance Armstrong wannabes, dressed in goofy looking spandex tights, whizzing in and around all the foot traffic. If they want to go fast, they know where to ride, and it’s not on a bike path full of pedestrians. It’s gotten to a point where I am thinking about taking my trekking poles as defensive weapons on my walks.
June 19, 2008
7:50 a.m.
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ghoax writes:
bikers, the American Flyer wanna be's have always been of that rude, holier than though mindset, here's a trick, ride in blue jeans no handed on an old ten speed around Wash Park..it's hilarious, seething bikers shouting obscenities...they can't even cuss that well...much like a pack of liberals at a no more oil rally...they just tense up, try to cuss and are funny to watch as they drive themselves into an emotional rage. The one's I like are the one's that ride right in the middle of the road, their sissy defiance to the rest of us oil guzzling automobile drivers...
June 19, 2008
7:51 a.m.
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SockRayBlue writes:
Clyde
Darn good point. Perhaps us oldsters need to be carrying a cane. One never knows where danger lurks. Those Cherry Creek dorks have become a pain in the butt over the years. I think I'll try to "score" a few.
June 19, 2008
7:53 a.m.
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plotz writes:
Oh Eli...how you get your underwear in a knot. Most people are not going to do that. I am perplexed as to why others who mention sticks and or canes are subject to your admonition. I was suggesting that this is an ongoing problem and just maybe some degree of militancy is needed...the martial arts thing is figurative and not meant to be literal. Now, I hope you are happy and your underwear is less discomforting.
Simply put...if other means, legal, common decency,and so on do not work. It is incumbent for those terroized by Xtremist thug cyclists to fight back...because if tickets, court,etc do nothing...we use Bismarck's notion of diplomacy "an iron fist wrapped in a velvet glove".
June 19, 2008
7:53 a.m.
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T1anda writes:
Did I miss something here?? I am not a cyclist, but shouldn't bike paths be used for bikes and not for foot traffic?
Why are they called "bike paths" if people insist on using them for daily runs or walks???
June 19, 2008
8:06 a.m.
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TC writes:
J.M.
Thank you. As a cyclist I'm embarrassed by the typical 'serious' rider. Tons of them in Boulder. I saw a guy riding highway 93 this morning near Rocky Flats where there's no shoulder. Get real man. If you're going to ride there, get on a mountain bike and stay on the dirt shoulder and out of traffic. You’re going to get killed - but you can die with the knowledge that you were technically in the right.
June 19, 2008
8:08 a.m.
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Eli writes:
"Now, I hope you are happy and your underwear is less discomforting."
If you must know, plotz, I'm rockin' the commando style.
June 19, 2008
8:23 a.m.
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gcrez writes:
I too am sick of the yuppy puppy types, that cruise the white line, not even on the shoulder. Then you slow down as to not hit them, and they give you a sneer. I would like to open my door on the passenger side and give em' a little slap with metal and glass. Those ca-qui (last time I had it removed-for the spelling the real word) riders are just asking for a tire track tattooed on their backsides. Why would you put yourself at peril like this?
June 19, 2008
9:07 a.m.
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pgrampp writes:
Try driving home on Hwy 103 on a Sunday. I am all for sharing the road, it is public property, but many road cyclists think they are in the peloton and ride 2-3 abreast. The killer irony is 99% of them DROVE to Bergen Park before becoming a snotty, above it all biker. Let's all take a deep breath and follow the rules of the road.
June 19, 2008
9:24 a.m.
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FU writes:
Ahh, "auto-induced courage". People who think they're tough while protected by 3 tons of steel. Some of these cyclists are your friends, relatives, or someone else's father, mother, etc... You probably don't want to actually kill someone. And as gas prices keep going up, there will be more bikes on the roads and paths. People need to adjust.
June 19, 2008
9:32 a.m.
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Eli writes:
Rude, inconsiderate people on both sides are guilty of causing problems between cyclists, drivers, pedestrians, etc.
A lot of joggers seem to prefer the bike lane over the sidewalk on 16th. I didn't know the bike lane was there for joggers...learn something new every day I guess.
On Holly, cars seem to prefer driving in the bike lane. The goal there seems to be to keep the line distinguishing the bike lane right in the center of your car.
Around Capitol Hill, drivers seem to forget the size of their car. They have no idea how much clearance they have on their right side. If I'm hugging the curb, giving them about four or five feet of room to pass, they will still slow down and sit behind me, honking and sometimes yelling at me to get the hell out of the road and onto the sidewalk despite the fact that riding on the sidewalk is illegal. Learn how to drive your damn car or start walking. It's not my fault that you can't figure out how to maneuver your vehicle.
Cyclists aren't exactly innocent, though. Riding two abreast on single lane roads is unacceptable. Just yesterday, while stopped at a red light, another cyclist flew past me and blew the light. He missed being run over by maybe three feet or so.
The only solution I can see to this kind of crap would be stricter enforcement of the law on cyclists. From what I've seen on my daily bicycle commute, police will very rarely stop any cyclists running red lights, riding on the sidewalk, riding on the wrong side of the road, etc. On the rare occasion one is stopped, they're given a warning. I say start issuing tickets regularly. It'd probably alleviate some of the frustrations drivers have if cyclists know that there is actually a consequence to breaking the law. Right now there really isn't any, unless you get hit.
June 19, 2008
10:02 a.m.
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RickyLee writes:
Hey F U.
You'd better "adjust" our of the way because you won't win the battle with 3 tons of steel, no matter who's got the right-of-way.
I ride several times a week from Longmont to Boulder for work,
but I've got the brains to stay out of traffic's way. From your post, it sounds like you don't.
June 19, 2008
10:18 a.m.
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olsonmt writes:
Ha ha ha, wannabe Lance Armstrongs! That is exactly right. It's hard to be courteous to auto and pedestrian traffic when you're training for the Tour. These people's self-indulgence creates a public hazard. The next time a biker puts me in danger by not obeying the rules of the road/trail, he's going to be wearing his Livestrong bracelet around his neck.
June 19, 2008
10:20 a.m.
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FU writes:
RickyLee - do you really have two first names? Cool!! Good work on making incorrect assumptions. I commute daily, as well as road and mtn bike when not working. I only take up the portion of the road I'm legally entitled to. Anything more would be nuts. You say you ride from Longmont to Boulder without getting in traffic's way? Is there really a bike path connecting the two, or do you ride in the dirt shoulder the entire time? Oh, and yes, I drive occasionally as well and always give plenty of space to fellow cyclists.
June 19, 2008
10:50 a.m.
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primafacie writes:
"Just go to Cherry Creek and see all these arrogant riders on the road rather than their specially-constructed bike paths."
To be sure, there are a good number of jerks on bicycles out there. I'm not one of them.
However, those "specially-constructed bike paths" don't circumnavigate Cherry Creek park. Makes for a very short ride.
Those paths are also heavily populated at times by the moms-and-strollers brigade, nature observers on foot, and dogs on (and sometimes off) leashes. And it's supposed to somehow be preferred to mix several dozen bikes going 20-25 mph with that?
There is a shoulder along the road in Cherry Creek park. It's about a foot wide and easy to drift off the pavement. So I keep about six inches to the left, fairly close to the white line. If a motorist can't make that adjustment, then maybe he's got more problems controlling that car than my oversized arse....
June 19, 2008
11 a.m.
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TC writes:
Hey FU
"I only take up the portion of the road I'm legally entitled to."
Prior to December 1996, only farm tractors and self propelled farm machines had to use the SMV sign. As of December 1, 1996, all vehicles that can not keep up a speed of more than 40 km/h
So do you have and display the legally reguired slow moving vehicle sign? Oh yeah, you problably never go slower than 25MPH.
June 19, 2008
11:09 a.m.
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FU writes:
TC - The right to travel is a Constitutional right, while driving a car is a privilege that can be revoked by the state. Bikes do not require an SMV sign. Check the laws if you feel the need. There were roads and bikes long before cars, and there will be bikes long after we run out of gas for cars. Seriously folks, where is the rage coming from? Is it because you're stuck in traffic while a bunch of cyclists are getting to the same place faster than you, getting a better parking spot than you, spending less $$ than you, in better shape than you, and having a good time doing it??
June 19, 2008
11:53 a.m.
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tchoupitoulas writes:
Two words....Washington Park. You get a constant 'holier than thou' look or ridiculously snarky comments from the Bianchi-Yeti crowd rolling around the park in their Tour de France wannabe best.
However, karma does follow. Just last week I saw a huge goose take out one of the cocky cyclists! He had turned around to yell at a young mother and her infant as they used the paved inner loop to walk, and just as he turned around the goose waddled into the cyclist's path and took him out. I wanted to walk up and give that goose the rest of my power bar for a job well done, but couldn't because I was laughing so hard.
June 19, 2008
12:04 p.m.
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TC writes:
FU
No the rage is from your creating a traffic hazard and being too self-absorbed to get it.
June 19, 2008
12:26 p.m.
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RickyLee writes:
Hey F U,...."f" YOU!
Remember the guy in Boulder a couple of weeks ago who was killed
on Foothills? He didn't have the right-of-way, rode in front
of a truck, and paid the ultimate price. That's what happens when you do battle with a vehicle. So, you go right ahead with your
cute attitude, you might be the next one.
Come out to Boulder County between LoMo and Boulder some Saturday
and experience how some of these morons "share" the road, riding in huge packs three and four abreast, not bothering to notice they're holding up the normal flow of traffic.
(illegal, and ticket-able offense)
And, your right, Einstein, I don't impede traffic AT ALL. You're
obviously not familiar with the area, Keep running your mouth,
your(lack of)intelligence shows with your every post.
Richard Lee Landrum II
Longmont
June 19, 2008
12:30 p.m.
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Eli writes:
RickyLee,
Dude, that's the second time I've seen you essentially challenge someone to a fight on these threads.
What is the point of that? Nobody is going to show up just because you posted your full name and the city you live in.
Furthermore, even if they did, are they suppose to drive around Longmont talking to random people asking if they know where Ricky Lee Landrum II is?
I understand your frustration with inconsiderate cyclists, but nobody cares that you're Ricky Lee Landrum II and that you live in Longmont. Nobody.
June 19, 2008
12:42 p.m.
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happymike44 writes:
My nephew would ride his cycle everyday the same place and same time.
Last year he was killed in a freak accident and died.
I never got to say good bye to him and a year later I still think of him everyday.
So do yourself a favor do obey the laws of the road,because if you don't someone usually dies.
So Mr Longmont I don't care who you are,All I care about is people doing what they are supposed to do.
When you are out cycling you are the smaller object try to stay out of people's way.
Because if you don't you will end up smashed flatter then a bug on a windshield.
June 19, 2008
12:52 p.m.
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TC writes:
How come somebody doesn't build a Velodrome in Boulder? I mean of all places that should have one. Now that would be some bare-knuckles sport! Flat out on a track built specifically for that purpose.
June 19, 2008
1:18 p.m.
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FU writes:
RickyLee - Yes, a guy in Boulder was killed because he rode in front of a truck. Should people not be allowed to WALK across a steet for the same reason, they may be run over? Brilliant logic you've got there... Eli is right on two points. 1. why are you threatening people on a blog? Get a life! 2. Nobody cares what your middle name is or that you're the second one with the same name. I'm just trying to make the point that cyclists have the same right to the road as cars. Give them a break, most of them are nice and have families that care about them. They don't deserve to be hassled. Of course there's a couple jerks that ruin it for the rest of us. Every group has a few.
June 19, 2008
1:27 p.m.
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FU writes:
Oh, one more comment to anyone racing around Wash Park. Quit it! That's no place to train and you're going to run someone over. Leave your race bike at home and roll around slowly on your cruiser bike if you want to ride there.
June 19, 2008
1:32 p.m.
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temurlan writes:
I used to ride the trail along the lake in downtown chicago. With bikers, rollerbladers, walkers and skateboarders sharing the road, it was a sport just to survive the whole trail.
Everyone needs to pay attention at all times, follow the laws and respect those around them.
Can't we all just get along?
June 19, 2008
1:41 p.m.
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VVVV writes:
Two abrest on a bike trail seems like heaven. I'm used to the four abrest on the far side of a blind corner going up Squaw Pass. Cyclist arrogance must be able to deflect two ton cars now too.
June 19, 2008
2:23 p.m.
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RickyLee writes:
F U
No challenging here, simply because I posted my name...YOU'RE
the one who inquired if I've got TWO first names, remember?
I'm simply showing you that no, I don't. Also, I'm making it quite clear that I do not hide behind the computer. In fact I'll stand behind everything I say. Eli must be the hyper-sensitive type to
read into my 12:26 post and see a challenge to a fight. The other instance he refer's to was the great NCB, and, indeed, that WAS
a bit of a challenge....but I digress.
In your 1:18 post you state that cycilist have the same rights to the road as cars. I submit that's not completely true. Cyclists
ARE NOT ALLOWED to impede the normal flow of traffic, as happens
very often with these large packs that refuse to yield to cars on the road.
Simple question for ya....do you believe it's legal(and wise)
to ride three or four abreast and block the flow of traffic, as it you seem to say in this pasted quote from your post?
".....I'm just trying to make the point that cyclists have the same right to the road as cars...."
".....Should people not be allowed to WALK across a steet for the same reason, they may be run over? Brilliant logic you've got there..."
Um....I never said people shouldn't be allowed to ride(or walk)
on/across the road, you insinuated I said it. What I'm trying to say is, if you're one of these people who rides your bike as if
everyone in cars will see you EVERY time, oblivious to your surroundings, you stand a great chance of getting hit. Do you disagree?
One more thing, I'm trying to find the threat you spoke of,
please enlighten me.
June 19, 2008
2:30 p.m.
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SockRayBlue writes:
Smaller, slower traffic keep to the right and don't impede traffic. Bicyclists do not stay in a pack. Ride single file. Be courteous. And watch out for other traffic and pedestrians.
These are the same rules I had in the middle of the LAST CENTURY. You might remember the tales about balloon tires and hi-rise handlebars. From what I've seen of those Boulder, testicular cancer prone Lance Armstrong wanna be's is that is their identification. The only difference is that they aren't as rich or smart as Armstrong. The time has to be slower also which makes sense.
Ricky Lee....keep hammering away. I enjoy reading this stuff. Too old to be drafted.......well, maybe. Obama hasn't been elected yet. Who knows what trouble he'll get us into.
June 19, 2008
2:40 p.m.
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O_TRAIN writes:
I'm curious what the cyclist etiquette is on this experience. I'm stopped at a stop sign several minutes, waiting behind several cars, to turn on a busy two lane rd. When it's my turn about ten cyclists come up on my right, several put their hands on my car so they won't have to take their feet off the pedals. I honk to let them know, get your paws off my car and I'm turning. They then take off and swarm the intersection and I'm left waiting. (the only alternative was to run them over - I of course didn't). Too lazy to take their feet off the pedals and then didn't wait their turn. What's up with that?
I agree with the letter writer.
June 19, 2008
2:40 p.m.
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FU writes:
Ricky - I was making fun of your red-neck/hillbilly/hick/Nascar name. It sounds like a character name from Dukes of Hazzard. I don't care what your middle name is. Sure, a pack of riders holding up traffic = illegal and should be ticketed. One rider staying to the right = totally legal even if they're below the speed limit. Look it up. Or, read a book. <http://www.velogear.com/prodinfo.asp?...
You can obviously read. That's pretty good for being a RickyLee!!
June 19, 2008
2:45 p.m.
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temurlan writes:
If someone is rude and arrogant on a bike, aren't they going to be rude and arrogant in general? Rude drivers, rude at work, etc.
June 19, 2008
3:39 p.m.
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skibiker writes:
to continue, the bicyclist's warning "on your left" causes walkers to veer to the left, look around in wild-eyed terror, veer further into the path of the oncoming otherwise well-meaning cyclist and then stop nearly causing a collision. I soon learned that slowing down a bit and observing my ambulating brethren, establishing if they were walking a reasonbly straight line, and then silently passing on the left was the safest approach.
June 19, 2008
4:14 p.m.
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Shaupeen writes:
Alright, FU, I'll spell this one out for you. I've got some free time. The paved road in Wash Park has a line down the middle of it. One side of that line is for foot traffic, people walking. There are stencils of a person walking painted on that half. That is where you should be if you are NOT on a bike. The other side of that line is for bikes. See the stencils of a person on a bike. People on this side of the line are moving faster, and if you are NOT on a bike, you should NOT be there on that side, because it could be dangerous. That's why they painted the line in the first place. Try to stay on your side of the line. It's what is best for you.
Seriously, you sound like a lot of people on here who walk on a bike trail and complain about, of all things, bikes! The nerve of those cyclists who ride their bikes on a bike path! There ought to be a law! Too funny! Thanks for the laugh.
June 19, 2008
4:24 p.m.
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RickyLee writes:
OK, OK,
I digress completely! It seems F U and myself are pretty much in agreeance after all...
If anyone feels threatened by my posts,
I'm truly sorry about that.(NCB's the exception!) It's hard to get the tone and meaning with text alone, and I'm quite opinionated
about several things.(really!?!) And, as you all (y'all) can
see, I'm ready and willing to stand behind what I say. However,
it's ONLY my opinion, and just because I feel strongly about something, it doesn't make me right nor you wrong. As with most issues, there's some intelligent middle ground somewhere.
When people say "bicycles have every right as cars do on the road",
I don't agree.
When people say "get off the road, you bicyclists don't belong here", I don't agree with that either.
I think temurlan has a good point at the 2:45, but
skibiker with "ambulating brethren"...well, there's TWO
five dollar words right in a row...kudos to you!
If anyone wants to get together for a couple brews, I'll buy the first round. (somewhere near LoMo or Boulder) It's easier to debate in person, I type REALLY crappy and slow!!!!
No worries either. Despite accusations in the history of these threads, I really DO NOT want to shoot someone, or run someone over, or get in a fight, ect,ect. You can find me listed on the Board of Directors at The Longmont Theatre Company,
www.longmonttheatre.org
Let's get a beer OR.....have a ride! I prefer the dirt.
Peace out!
Ricky
June 19, 2008
5:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
4gColoNative writes:
a few comments that might be helpful (helpful? what's that?)
"Passing" works better than "on your left." Most people understand passing is done on the left, like in a car.
If there isn't much traffic, cyclists two-abreast should be tolerated. The drivers exercise a little patience while the cyclists promptly change to single-file.
Crowded bike paths are no place for cyclists going over 10 mph
No adult cyclists should be on sidewalks (this one's for you, downtown couriers). Grow a pair and stay on the street!
June 19, 2008
7:43 p.m.
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American100 writes:
I always just figured they were so rude because their spandex was too tight.
I think the guys on bikes in those get ups are secretly looking for a boyfriend. (or maybe not too secretly)
June 19, 2008
8:56 p.m.
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CaptainObvious writes:
So, all of you people ripping on cyclists wearing spandex, you don't watch football, right? I mean, those are essentially the same shorts--all tight and shiny. Otherwise, you know, you would be pretty silly to laugh at the cyclists for their outfits and then pay your hard-earned money to actually cheer for and encourage other guys who are wearing the same shorts. But now that I think about, there IS a lot more butt-slapping in football. Whoops. Sorry Bronco fans.
June 19, 2008
11:13 p.m.
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MattGuyver_007 writes:
Subaru? Check. Road Bike? Check. Bumper Stickers? Check. Spandex? Check. Big Ego and Bad Attitude? Check.
Douche B@g? Check.
June 20, 2008
9:44 a.m.
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primafacie writes:
Not sure what your point is, Guyver, but I drive an Explorer without bumper stickers. And no ego or attitude -- if you've seen me riding uphill, you know I have no room for either.
But the common thread in these postings, pun intended, is clear: It's not about road safety or courtesy; it's about the clothes. Very few of these anti-cyclists can't get through a response without a witty rejoinder about what they wear.
What difference does that make? Sure, it's not the most flattering stuff. But I happen to find the chamois-padded shorts more comfortable and that a Lycra jersey stays dryer and cooler than a cotton T-shirt -- plus the handy pockets sewn into the back of the jersey, not to mention the bright colors that make me a tad more visible to latte-sipping moms driving filled mini-vans. Function over form.
For whatever reason, a lot of folks can't get past that. Sure, they complain about a slower-moving bike in traffic (but not a word about little old ladies driving 15 mph; are they also supposed to drive on the narrow shoulder?) and red-light runners. Fair game.
But it always comes back to the clothes. I want to be visible on the bike, but I'm wondering if some of you are looking a little too close....
June 20, 2008
10:03 a.m.
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RickyLee writes:
I get held up far more by packs of bikes than "little old ladies",
prima, and it's not "a" slow moving bike, it's an arrogant pack with an "I can do anything I want out here as long as all my equally arrogant buddies are with me".
Also, you mention red-light runners as if bicyclists never do that,
so what's your point there?
Anyone wearing cotton while biking is foolish, I think.
June 20, 2008
10:31 a.m.
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MGD writes:
Katoom, I think you made that up. I spend most evenings and nearly all weekends on the trails along the front range, in the mountains and any where I can. I have never, not once heard a mountain biker say that. I call Bull! I suspect that you ride a bike on sidewalks and dislike all mountain bikers.
Last night I rode Dakota Ridge to Red Rocks to Matthews winters and encountered only one rude person. A hiker with a dog that she couldn't control. Despite the fact that I stopped and made room for her to pass she lamented in her saddest voice that this trail is runined for hiking.
June 20, 2008
10:34 a.m.
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MGD writes:
Plotz and others who think it would be fun or a good idea to attack bikers. Grow up. You talk big on this forum but would be unlikely to say boo.
Have you gone to city council meetings? Have you addressed the issue in any constructive manner?
It's a coward who makes these kinds of threats.
June 20, 2008
10:49 a.m.
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MGD writes:
I agree with skibiker, when I warn someone (with the bell I have installed on every bike I own), I get a variety of reaction. Often pedestrians in the bike lane or not turn to see me. Often they act angry and even say something rude to me. Often they have earphones in and don't hear me. I still do it and many people just quietly move over.
It's not only bikers who go three or more abreast. Peds, runners, etc do the same thing on the path.
June 20, 2008
10:52 a.m.
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MGD writes:
Shaupeen, I rode around Wash park once this summer. On my cruiser no less and the bike lane is generally the overflow/running/ whatever else people off bikes want to use it for.
Not going fast, as I said I was on my cruiser and really just cruising and yet I still had peds and dogs dart in front of me.
I guess the magic white line doesn't work that well.
June 20, 2008
10:57 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
I never realized that there was so much hatred for cyclists. So much that people want to cause physical harm to them. It has made me afraid to ride my road bike this week. Seriously! And I obey the traffic laws. I wonder if those same people use the bike lane for a right turn lane and also run red lights/stopsigns with their cars.
There are also many people who make fun of what other people wear. I like CaptainObvious' response to that! Comfort, ease of mobility, and safety is more important to me than how someone may critique my appearance. That is their problem. I don't wear expensive team jerseys because I am not on a team.
June 20, 2008
11:03 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
The bike paths are named that for a reason. Bikes are not allowed on sidewalks but pedestrians are allowed on bike paths. I have no problem with that as long as they obey the rules. Walk on the right half of the path and keep your dog on a short leash!
June 20, 2008
11:06 a.m.
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MGD writes:
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news...
Yes there are rude cyclists. Yes, many who ride bikes wear lycra (I don't). Just as there are some poorly dressed, jackasses who drive cars.
Maybe when you see those lean, strong looking cyclists you see arrogance because you couldn't ride to the local dairy queen for your daily blizzard, I really don't know.
People who commute are generally doing it for health, economics, environmental concerns or just for pleasure. Do they, do we really deserve to be attacked with canes and walking sticks and poorly worded verbal jibes?
June 20, 2008
11:13 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Operators of motor vehicles and cyclists should make themselves aware of the Colorado Bicycling Statutes:
http://bicyclecolo.org/page.cfm?PageI...
June 20, 2008
11:20 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
MGD,
We're probably a little late on this one!
Mountain biking for me this weekend. And my padded lycra/spandex will be disguised!
June 20, 2008
11:24 a.m.
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MGD writes:
Heidi, that's two times we've been in agreement. I too cover my spandex diaper.
RR/MW/DR tonight. Apex tomorrrow, Lair on Sunday.
Enjoy!
June 20, 2008
11:32 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
Spandex diaper! Too funny! Thank goodness for those diapers. I may go to Buffalo Creek. I don't have very many MTB friends yet and don't know many of the trails so may join one of those Meetup group rides sometime. I live close to N Table Mountain so ride that sometimes during the week.
You enjoy, too, and watch out for those dogs!
June 20, 2008
12:19 p.m.
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Dan2 writes:
Heidi,
Spandex for protection? Really? Wipe out on a bicycle coming down hill at over 35 miles per hour, and I doubt you will be happy you have spandex on. And is it really comfortable? I don't see how.
CaptObvious I think was using sarcasm, and not being serious. Professional football players were a uniform because the league mandates that is what is worn. Same with any other professional sport. Biking is hardly a sport. It is, no doubt, a physically challenging activity, and can be a competition, but it is not a sport by any stretch of the imagination (probably a separate thread at some point).
We have discussed the whole "attire" aspect already. Personal preference, I get it. But I will make fun of you. You look like a tool, and that "usually" means you will act like one. If you are acting like a tool, you deserve to hear about it. Because once the actions of a tool impact another person, that other person has a right (and some would say a moral obligation), to correct those actions as to no longer impede the liberty of the impacted party.
My point? Don't be a tool (either on a bicycle, walking, hiking, driving a car, motorcycle, skate board, in-line skates, kite boarding or whatever other mode of transportation you prefer). Be respectful to those that are respectful to you (and if you want, go one step further and be respectful to those that are tools), and this issue is solved.
June 20, 2008
12:21 p.m.
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Dan2 writes:
Professional football players WEAR a uniform. I'm over this day already...
June 20, 2008
12:34 p.m.
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RickyLee writes:
dan2, ride thirty or forty miles in your cotton undies and shorts,
chafe from all of the retained sweat, or freeze your a$$ off in the morning because you're soaked.
There's a lot of protection associated with the proper attire, but if I have to explain, you certainly wouldn't understand, and in not understanding, rationalize your ignorance by calling me a "tool". Heidi wasn't talking about road rash, wake up.
Cycling certainly IS a sport, certainly more so than...say...golf.
June 20, 2008
12:56 p.m.
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FU writes:
Dan2 - you never explained why there's so much butt-slapping in football. D-bag!
June 20, 2008
1 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Dan2,
I didn't use the word protection. When I mentioned safety, I meant that I wear bright colors when riding on the road so the drivers will more easily see me. As RickyLee mentioned, chafing is a concern and I like to protect myself from that. Plus loose clothing tends to get caught on stuff, even my saddle. The fabric is comfortable because it wicks away the sweat and it keeps me cool as well as warm. I don't care who makes fun of me. I am above being bothered by that.
Even if CaptainObvious was just being sarcastic, it was still funny.
The most important thing is that everyone show each other respect, just like you said.
RickyLee,
Being called a tool is a good thing. Tools are useful and sometimes necessary. Everyone should have at least one.
June 20, 2008
1:02 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
FU,
The league mandates the butt-slapping as well as the tight pants.
June 20, 2008
1:24 p.m.
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MGD writes:
Wow, you non-cyclists sure spend a lot of time examining the backside of people who do ride. It makes me wonder why so many of you are watching NFL football on giant hi-def screens. What are you really looking at?
Cycling is not a sport? Okay, if that makes you feel better.
Dan2, what sport do you participate in?
June 20, 2008
1:26 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Dan2,
You may want to take up your argument about cycling not being a sport with the International Olympic Committee. Cycling has been an Olympic sport since 1896.
http://www.olympic.org/uk/sports/prog...
June 20, 2008
2:03 p.m.
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Faux_Noise writes:
Dan2,
I've always known you to be a TOOL (I'd use stronger language but you chose that one) what with your pretense at being an objective non-partisan who parrots Bush administration talking points on every issue, but you certainly proved it today.
Cycling's not a sport? By what definition? The world's largest annual sporting event is this bike race they've got in France every July. You might want to check it out.
I dress in racing gear, ride a racing bike, like going fast up hills and getting my heart rate up above 195 (twenty beats per minute higher than my age of 44 would suggest should be my max), I obey the rules of the road, and announce myself to pedestrians on the bike path as I pass (even the oblivious ones with headphones on.) But because I dress in clothing appropriate to a 40 mile ride, you think I'm a tool. I think that makes you a schmuck!
June 20, 2008
2:15 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
"Because once the actions of a tool impact another person, that other person has a right (and some would say a moral obligation), to correct those actions as to no longer impede the liberty of the impacted party."
I guess that to mean the impacted party has the liberty to take the law into his own hands. Or more disturbing, take revenge. Ah, wouldn't that be nice if we could live in a libertarian society, but a large number of people cannot be trusted to be responsible.
June 20, 2008
4:20 p.m.
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RickyLee writes:
Heidi, you're right, everyone SHOULD have at least one....
You ever ride in the dirt? Ever get up around LoMo?
(we can look at each other in our spandex!)LOL
O, to have more Libertarians in the legislature....(sigh)...
June 20, 2008
4:27 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Hey RickyLee,
I am getting ready to go for a ride right now up Table Mountain. So my spandex will be hidden. I go through Longmont every once in awhile on my way to Loveland to see my parents.