If Darwin Rode a Bike
There is a lot of grit and fortitude on Bellingham’s streets this winter. Not the grit deposited by COB sanders, but the dedicated bicyclists who ride in rain and snow and dark of night. Some
There is a lot of grit and fortitude on Bellingham’s streets this winter. Not the grit deposited by COB sanders, but the dedicated bicyclists who ride in rain and snow and dark of night. Some
But there are a significant number of others who seem to be looking for entry onto the endangered species list. I frequently see 2 or more a day on my usual haunts (Lakeway Dr, Holly St, Boulevard and adjacent side streets). Typically they are riding unlit bikes at night with dark clothing and often without helmets. Some ride the street with panache and abandon, changing lanes without signal or passing a column of cars on the right. I've seen some run red lights, even at night. Others have suddenly emerged from sidewalks into traffic flow or used cross walks inappropriately.
Bellinghamsters are tolerant and supportive of bicyclists. We value their independence and eco-consciousness. Many tax dollars have gone into providing a friendlier biking infrastructure and I believe that is a good thing. And I also believe that those who use our public infrastructure need to behave responsibly. We expect motorists to have proper equipment and follow the rules of the road. Where bicyclists share the same space, we should expect the same from them. And pity the motorist who hits one of these cowboys....there's a good chance the motorist is not at fault, but the emotional and financial pain can be quite real. And pity the cyclist as well...they stand to lose the most.