What a ride this morning. And thus, I have two tips. One for drivers. One for cyclists. Here goes:
- Drivers. Three lanes with no traffic except one pickup truck and me. The driver of that truck got within inches of me, even slowing down as if to prove a point. As the driver (finally) sped away, I saw numerous HGH decals plastered on the truck. If you’re going to get that close to me, please hand out samples, alright? OK, now for the real tip: If there are 3 lanes for you to drive in and one is occupied by someone on a bike, it’s best to use one of the other lanes if at all possible. You’ll get to go as fast as you want and the person on the bike will be happy. Win-win.
- Cyclists. Unless you’re trying to be a ninja on a mission of (your own) death, PLEASE PUT ON SOME LIGHTS. I know, you won’t be as aero. I also know that some of the cool kids around town might think you’re a dork. But guess what? You might actually be noticeable versus several of the riders I (just barely) saw early this morning before sunrise cruising around with zero lights. Sure, some wore “high visibility” pieces of clothing, but that does you no good in the dark. Put a solid white light on the front and a red light on the back. Give yourself a prayer out there. HGH pickup truck driver will probably still get within inches of you, but most other drivers won’t because they’ll see you before it’s too late.