Spinning Wheels

Today as I rode to work with my wheels literally and figuratively spinning, I was thinking about the safety of cyclists on the roads. I might not obey every rule but there are a few things that are "must do's" if you are cruisin the roads on two wheels. Below are my top 5.

1. WEAR A HELMET. I don't care if you just got your hair done or you have to run a quick errand. I am sure a lot of people are quite fond of your noggin and you should keep it safe. It worries me when I see perfectly intelligent people zooming on Mt. Vernon trail without one. Also, it doesn't count if your helmet is hanging from your handle bars or the chin strap undone. Each of these will not protect you from a rouge squirrel attack causing you to wreck your bike.

2. PASS ON THE LEFT. This is interesting because you should naturally feel comfortable doing this since that is the appropriate way to do it in a vehicle. But some people have a stroke of pure genius and pass on the right and get clobbered by the cyclist they are passing because they were slowing down to make a right hand turn. Idiots.

3. PEDESTRIANS, WATCH OUT! I am sure you all remember my run in with the high school bitches that caused last summer's bike accident and left me the scars on my leg and hand. I do agree that they have the right of way, but when I have a green light and Hill staffers are compelled to cross the street, I am gonna yell at them. I don't care what side of the isle they are - move it or you will get hit with my front tire. You will be both red and blue when I am finished with you.

4. DON'T DOUBLE UP IN CURVES. Ok, I think it is precious when I see a couple riding together on the trail. It is such a lovely activity for couples and can suit almost any skill level. I mean the Squid will even ride with me and resist the urge to ZOOM just to have my company. That's love. Anyway, when you are coming into a high traffic area with multiple turns, get single file. If you don't it won't be me yelling at you, it will be the 6 man cycling team that knocks you on your ass as they round the corner screaming "move outta the way!" Trust me, it is terrifying. They also might hunt you down and slash your tires.

5. EYES ON THE ROAD. So there is one portion of my commute to work that travels past the airport. There is nothing cooler than watching planes take off and land. But if you are going to watch, PLEASE get off the trail. It makes it more difficult for all of us to maneuver around your bike and then when you get your eyes back on the road are pissed that we are passing you.

I still consider myself a cycling novice, but I certainly am learning my way around the road. Just make sure you are not ever pulling jerk moves because what goes around comes around. Oh, and if you are newly engaged, make sure to wear fingerless gloves so you still have a good view of your gorgeous ring.

Happy pedal pushing!