A couple simple things to improve your next ride...for ever

[Oyez Oyez]

A couple simple things to improve your next ride...for ever

par Oyez Oyez » Lun Nov 17, 2008 5:30 pm

I am clearly not alone in my enjoyment of and appreciation for Parc Mont Royal and its casual multi-use Chemin Olmstead. Even in the cruddiest weather, one usually finds at least a handful of other runners, bikers, skiers, walkers, strollers and snowshoers. I realize that some people are put off by the Parc's popularity and the recent announcement of trail expansion plans will, in my opinion, not dilute users but draw in increased numbers. Therefore, it seems to me that a greater respect for other users will improve the experience for all. You may notice little multicolored metal signs at different locations along Olmstead. One of the rules listed is to keep to the right side of the trail and pass others on their left. Seems a simple and logical guideline to minimize conflict...(to me anyway).  Since cyclists are the fastest moving of the three major user groups. it is our responsibility to safely move around the others. I have no interest in regimenting everyone else's outdoor experience so that we march in single file lockstep without enjoying such a nice city park BUT it does bug me when groups take up the whole trail as if they are the only people in the park or when runners and bikers take the shortest line around a turn to the surprise of oncoming traffic.  I could also do without increased park signage but a simple sign attached to the existing 20KPH speed limit posts indicating "keep right" would not hurt.Would it? Please leave a comment.

 

While I'm on the topic, increased bike lane facilities and increasing bicycle use in general necessitates another courtesy reminder for the safety of all: hand signals.  Hand signals are not passé or dorky or unnecessary. They keep me from plowing into you when you erratically decide to stop and ponder your next move in the middle of a crowded bike path. They can also save you from being flattened by all sorts of motor vehicles.  Hand signals are largely recognized internationally and in case it has been a while, here is what they look like. In the immortal words of Brad Hamilton, "Learn it, know it, live it."

[img:501:145]http://www.quixotecycles.com/gazette/BikeHandSignals.gif[/img]
From left to right: Left turn. Right turn. Slow/Stop


Author: jonathanquixote
Category: Around townpolicysafetyInfrastructuretraffic
Publish Date: Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:30:00 GMT

-

Source:
Description: