Sharing the Road

I love to bike and it is a wonderful form of exercise.  Some of the hills in town, I’ve nick-named “heart attack hill” because they are so steep, I’ll try to find a way to maximize coming down them instead of going up them.  Unfortunately, many of our local roads are not wide enough for bike lanes, so cyclists and cars must share the roads.

As we were heading to the beach the other day, it occurred to me that this blog would be a great opportunity to vent about a pet peeve, while trying to make recreation safer.  What I find most frustrating are those cyclists – and you know who you are – who choose to ignore the laws in NJ (http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/bike/regulations.shtm) when it comes to bicycle regulations.  Bicycle riders are supposed to ride SINGLE file, close to the side of the road, use hand signals and move in same direction as traffic.

It seems simple enough, yet many people disobey these rules.  Just as the state of NJ recently reported that more car accidents are caused by motorists NOT using their turn signals than using cell phones, I’m certain that lack of hand signals has caused much confusion for cars trying to safely navigate the same roads with cyclists.

I have witnessed some cyclists surround cars – as if to bully them – and force them to drive slow in lieu of letting them pass.  Could you imagine if automobiles did this?  Just because our police don’t give out tickets for cyclist disobeying the rules of the road, doesn’t make it okay to break the law.  Adhering to stop signs and traffic lights is also something that cyclists are supposed to do. 

For those of you who may find riding your bike on the local roads too dangerous – the good news you have lots of options – even flatter elevations.  Two parks that are great for cycling are Thompson Park in Lincroft (adjacent to Cross Farms) and Dorbrook Park in Colts Neck.  Another option is the Henry Hudson trail (but note the trail does have breaks at roads and intersections).

Owning a bike doesn’t have to be expensive – whether it be getting one at a local sporting goods store, Kmart, Target or even a tag sale.  I find many people are unsure of the proper seat height… while seated on the bike, your knee should be slightly bent while the pedal is “down” at your side.  Too much bend, means your seat is too low, not any – your seat is too high.  Wearing a helmet is a must – even for pony-tail clad individuals.  Always bring ID with you and don’t talk or text while pedaling.  Biking is an easy way to have fun, to get around town and get in your daily physical activity.

In many communities, bike lanes are expanding… but we must follow the rules of the road and be considerate of all users!