image used without permission via cycling tips
This is a real neat little example of why motorists are full of shit when they pull out the "bicycles slow down traffic" argument when rationalizing their desire for cyclists to not ride on "their road." This article was reposted by Wade at Cycling Tips (link under picture). It's nice to know that cycling to work is more time efficient (and by extension and necessity, more cost, energy, etc.. efficient) in places other than just NYC.
It really cracks me up when a car drives SUPER close behind me when I'm riding in the middle of a lane, in a blatantly passive-aggressive maneuver, passes me as close as their mirrors will allow, and then gets stuck at a red light that I can just blow through (when cross-traffic permits, of course).
One time recently, that exact situation unfolded as I was riding to the bridge on the now bikelane-less Bedford Ave. Since I was kind of in a pissy mood (pre-9am is when you get to meet grouchy erk) to begin with, I passed him at the light and muttered under my breath something to the effect of "go fuck yourself you fucking meathead jackass." Of course he couldn't hear what I said but I think he could see my lips moving because he rolled down his passenger window and said "Yo! did you say something?"
I decided to take a moment while the light was red to learn him some traffic etiquette, and to my surprise he was quite courteous and actually listened to me! He also seemed to concede the facts that (a) I too pay taxes for roadways in the city, and (b) I have just as much right as anyone to use a lane of traffic, regardless my choice of transport.
In hindsight I'm proud of myself for wiping my face of the all too typical inward disgust and loathing associated with overtly aggressive motorists, as I was able to have a meaningful exchange that hopefully benefited another cyclist riding with him later on.
I think it is important to recognize our impact on other cyclists and to not simply worry about our own well being. I've noticed from personal experience that a simple wave or nod (or combination of the two) when a motorist (or anyone else for that matter) does you right, will go a long way to improving everyone's daily lives.
Kim Jong Irrrrr. source unknown.
Super Badass Racing Bike Buildup Status Update: Apparently NYC Velo lied to me last Tuesday when they said my seatpost and stem were going to be here today... Therefore, unveiling photos will be posted this coming Wednesday. Sorry, I know y'all were dying to see it...
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