Post by dgaddis1 on Aug 5, 2014 9:01:34 GMT -5
The Greeneway is a wonderful resource and facility. A nice paved, car free, shaded, scenic path that connects neighborhoods with parks and downtown. It’s a great way to commute into work, ride over to a friend’s house, go for a run, walk the dog, take the kids for a ride or walk, and go for any easy cruise with your significant other. It is NOT however, the place to go for a fast training ride. I’m tired of seeing people on bikes acting like a-holes and making the rest of us look bad. Going too fast, passing too close to slower trail users, and not paying attention. It would be cliché to blame it all on the triathletes (and yesterday I saw a guy down on his aerobars miss running over a turtle’s head by millimeters – thankfully the turtle has faster reflexes than the rider, and he tucked into his shell just in time), but honestly I’ve seen riders of all types being jerks. Hardcore roadies, MTBers, old folks on hybrids with the handlebars 8ft in air, guys riding 20yr old creaking and squeaking bikes, you name it – I’ve seen them nearly hurt someone. So here’s a few tips to keep the greeneway safe for everyone
If no one else is around, go as fast as you want
Slow way way way down at road crossings and make sure it’s clear before going across. Be prepared to stop if you need to.
When approaching other trail users, slow down. ESPECIALLY if there are kids or dogs involved – both are completely unpredictable and liable to run out in front of you at any moment
Stay off the aerobars when around other trail users – you need to be able to brake suddenly if necessary
Don't stare at your front wheel, watch where you're going
When passing, slow down, and give plenty of room. Don’t shout “ON YOUR LEFT!!!!” and then blast by inches away from someone.
Headphones – don’t be stupid, take them out so you can hear people coming up from behind you.
Don’t stop in the middle of the trail, move to the side
Go in a straight line to make it easier for others to pass you if they want
Don’t do it for me. Do it for the kids. And the tturtles.
If no one else is around, go as fast as you want
Slow way way way down at road crossings and make sure it’s clear before going across. Be prepared to stop if you need to.
When approaching other trail users, slow down. ESPECIALLY if there are kids or dogs involved – both are completely unpredictable and liable to run out in front of you at any moment
Stay off the aerobars when around other trail users – you need to be able to brake suddenly if necessary
Don't stare at your front wheel, watch where you're going
When passing, slow down, and give plenty of room. Don’t shout “ON YOUR LEFT!!!!” and then blast by inches away from someone.
Headphones – don’t be stupid, take them out so you can hear people coming up from behind you.
Don’t stop in the middle of the trail, move to the side
Go in a straight line to make it easier for others to pass you if they want
Don’t do it for me. Do it for the kids. And the tturtles.