Here it is — the second in Cascade’s very own Bike Month video series. Please note: These videos are not meant to be a comprehensive overview of everything a first-time bicycle commuter might do or encounter. (If only we had the resources to produce THAT series of videos…) They’re meant to be brief and fun glimpses into the commuting life, along the lines of something you might submit for our Video, Photo and Story Contest. We recognize there are other clothes (crisp cotton shirts, wicking wool sweaters, stretchy synthetic pants, flowing flannel capes, stylish seersucker suits, marvelous moire gowns to name a few) one might wear, other paths one might take, and we honor those choices, so long as they’re legal and keep you and other road users safe. Enjoy!
I (almost) always wave to a driver who has yielded right of way at a stop sign, acknowledging their courtesy. And I give a “G’morning” to just about anyone I meet or pass along the way. Let people know you see them as people. It goes a long way to building community.
“Let people know you see them as people.”
I love that!
I say “Morning!” to oncoming cyclists because it’s about all they are going to hear in the time we have. I have also turned around and chased down about 4 of the dozen cyclists I see coming the other way every day to ask their names. So now it’s “Hi Mark!” when I pass him.
I also wave at cars that give me space. I figure by acknowledging their good actions I’m helping them feel it was worth it to be nice to me.
Additionally, I can’t stress that you need to be maximally visible when riding on the streets with cars. That’s lights & reflective clothing. It makes a huge difference as to when the drivers see you.