Good gack frackit it . . . how amazingly fantastic it is to, once again, be out there.
I did not realize how much I missed cycling until recently hopping back in (on?) the saddle after many years.
Now that we’re no longer in a neighbourhood where “bicycle outside front door = instant death,” life has opened up considerably.
Since I was last on two (self-powered) wheels, the Galloping Goose became about a zillion kilometres longer, rider awareness has grown just as much and bikes have gone through about as many technological advances as the dental industry.
Like I always say sometimes: “it’s a great time to be alive.” I typically say this of geeky technology, but it can apply to being a cyclist in Victoria, too.
*pause for thought and emphasis*
Another evolution I have noticed, however, is the increasing disparity between the attitudes of two-wheeled people and four-wheeled people.
Those who travel on both two wheels and four have a unique perspective.
Most four-wheels I know dislike two-wheels ’cause they weave in and out of traffic, don’t stay in their bike lanes and can’t travel at 60 km/h.
Most two-wheels I know dislike four-wheels ’cause they drive too closely, dictate road rules out their windows and change lanes without regard.
While these are legitimate concerns, the doofi (plural of “doofus”) who engage in this type of behaviour are typically the minority, and don’t represent the rest of their kind, who are on the road in a courteous and respectful manner.
Why, oh why can’t we all just get along? =)
The thing is, (with certain exceptions, of course), two-wheels and four-wheels have the exact same rights and responsibilities on the roads, according to section 183, subsection 1 of the BC Motor Vehicles Act.
In time, both sides may come to understand the others’ position and gain a greater respect for their fellow roadmates, but until then, purdy-pleeze continue to drive defensively and courteously, keep your eyes open and understand that the “idiots” out on the road are small in number compared to the “good guys.”
=)