I hate to use the phrase “Smidsy” but it was totally pertinent to describe a minor incident I experienced recently. I had just dropped my son at school and was sedately pedalling home (brownie points from me, healthy exercise and reducing the carbon footprint) when a driver decided to reverse back down a road, directly into my path. I swerved to avoid an obvious collision and as I glanced back it became quickly apparent that the driver was adamant I was in the wrong. They even had the audacity to gesticulate to ensure I was completely aware of the fact. Usually I would just shrug it off (as it happens far too often and is all part of a two wheeled lifestyle), however on this occasion some force of sobriety and fairness took over and I felt the need to re-educate this (blinkered) motorist. I confidently pedalled up to the car as they were about to deliver their kids to school (no brownie points and significantly adding to the carbon footprint, just saying!) My aim was to protect the integrity and safety of all cyclists out there!
We had a mature calm conversation until they decided to spout some drivel about me being in their blind spot and even more remarkably I should have known where that actual blind spot was (of course I have a list of all the cars on the market and their build specifications consigned to memory). I tried to diffuse the situation by suggesting that a simple gesture of apology, like a brief nod of the head would have been more appropriate and we parted in agreement that there are good and bad motorists and cyclists out there. Crucially, it does highlight that the journey of education for all road users will continue to be long and laborious, but is much needed to make our roads as safe as possible for all in the years ahead. This brings me on rapidly to the perceived camaraderie amongst cyclists.
Is it me or has this sense of solidarity become diminished somewhat? In the past every cyclist I encountered would animatedly nod, wave or gesture as we crossed paths but unfortunately that instinctive empathy is no longer evident, which is a great shame. The new breed of cyclists swathed in Lycra sat atop expensive gleaming carbon machines appear happy to pretend that others don’t exist. Or is it that cyclists are becoming less friendly, because they are much more comfortable with their own company?
Unfortunately I have noticed it even crosses continents and is not just a British phenomenon. Ok, I have to admit I could be perceived as being antisocial, but only because I love riding on my own. I don’t need the distraction and chatter that comes with having a cycling buddy. However this doesn’t prevent me from passing pleasantries with fellow cyclists I meet. Please get in touch as I would be interested to hear you thoughts and opinions.
(I hope I haven’t put you off hitting the saddle!)
Happy Pedalling
Scot
Scot Whitlock Editor, CADENCE Cycling Magazine (coming soon)
Twitter: @cadencemag
Website: www.cadencemag.co.uk
Author ‘Simple Words from the Saddle’ & ‘Simply More Words from the Saddle’
Twitter: @saddlescot
Blog: [email protected]
Kazakhstan trip: www.pedaltheunknown.com
