Sunday, August 18, 2013

How Do I Ride?

It's been just over 2 weeks since I said goodbye to my car and hello to car-free living. 

I like it. 

In case you were wondering if I'm toodling along on the sidewalk, or shrinking down the road on the shoulder hoping no one hits me, fear not. I am trying my darnedest to be a vehicular cyclist. 

If you aren't familiar with the phrase, check out the article on Wikipedia at www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicular_Cycling.

Basically, I act like a car when I'm on the road. I take up space and ride no less than about two feet from the right edge of the lane.  I force cars to go around me.  Did you know that when a driver thinks you're trying to stay out of their way, they don't try nearly as hard to stay out of yours? Now, that doesn't mean to go out there and act a fool. It does mean, however, that you should not apologize for riding your bike safely on the road.  Take up the space you need.

I would like you all to know that this past week I successfully made it from work to my CSA (8 miles), to my therapist's office (2.5 miles), and then after that appointment, to church for small group (5 miles). Without dying. Thank you. ::Bows::


2 comments:

Emily said...

Interesting. I have a freind that's selling a REALLY GOOD bike REALLY CHEAPLY and I've considered it (though the summer's finances may prohibit this). I would love to ride my bike to church. It's only 2.5 miles.

Jenni said...

Would the summer's finances benefit from a lower gasoline bill?? Possibilities...