Hyperreal Film Club
Bicyclists: With Rights Come Responsibilities
RECEIVED Mon., July 12, 2004
Dear bicyclists of Austin,
Just because you live in the city where Lance Armstrong has been deified does not give you the right to forgo basic bicycling etiquette. Granted, Austin is not exactly a bike-friendly town (I have had my share of near hits with inconsiderate automobile drivers), but if you expect any kind of support for the "Share the Road With Bicyclists" movement, it would be wise to stop alienating all of your pedestrian friends.
First of all, my pedaling friends, it is called a sidewalk. That means that you should be maneuvering yourself around people who are walking. It does not mean that we should have to leap out of the way as you scream, "Watch where you are going!" I realize that the street is not always suitable for bicyclists, but should you find yourself using the sidewalk, note that you are a guest and act accordingly.
Most of us are aware of the wonderful natural exercise park that is Town Lake. It is a fantastic resource for everyone in Austin, including bicyclists, joggers, and dog owners. I am not asking that the bicyclists refrain from using the park. However, I request that when you whiz by at supersonic speeds that you merely mumble, "On your left," or employ a standard bicycle bell which will let me know that you are coming by close enough to move my arm hairs. This way, I will not move suddenly and risk life and limb (most likely my own) because I did not look over my shoulder in time to see you. Also, those who have dogs can make sure they keep the leash taut in order to avoid disaster.
As you can see, it is not your competence as a bicyclist that I am protesting. I am more than happy to share space and even defend your right to ride in the street among the SUVs and Harleys. All I ask is that you share the road and look out for your slower and much more vulnerable pedestrian friends, making Austin a safe place for bicyclists and the rest of us.
Just because you live in the city where Lance Armstrong has been deified does not give you the right to forgo basic bicycling etiquette. Granted, Austin is not exactly a bike-friendly town (I have had my share of near hits with inconsiderate automobile drivers), but if you expect any kind of support for the "Share the Road With Bicyclists" movement, it would be wise to stop alienating all of your pedestrian friends.
First of all, my pedaling friends, it is called a sidewalk. That means that you should be maneuvering yourself around people who are walking. It does not mean that we should have to leap out of the way as you scream, "Watch where you are going!" I realize that the street is not always suitable for bicyclists, but should you find yourself using the sidewalk, note that you are a guest and act accordingly.
Most of us are aware of the wonderful natural exercise park that is Town Lake. It is a fantastic resource for everyone in Austin, including bicyclists, joggers, and dog owners. I am not asking that the bicyclists refrain from using the park. However, I request that when you whiz by at supersonic speeds that you merely mumble, "On your left," or employ a standard bicycle bell which will let me know that you are coming by close enough to move my arm hairs. This way, I will not move suddenly and risk life and limb (most likely my own) because I did not look over my shoulder in time to see you. Also, those who have dogs can make sure they keep the leash taut in order to avoid disaster.
As you can see, it is not your competence as a bicyclist that I am protesting. I am more than happy to share space and even defend your right to ride in the street among the SUVs and Harleys. All I ask is that you share the road and look out for your slower and much more vulnerable pedestrian friends, making Austin a safe place for bicyclists and the rest of us.
Sincerely,
Erika Kleinman
Erika Kleinman