We had a bit of snow mixed with the rain last night and I was thinking we'd probably have snow on the ground again this morning. That was not to be, just rain in the valley. Maybe we've turned the corner?
One thing is for sure, we've turned the corner on January. I continued my pansy ways and went to the gym early in the day. I had a goal today to pedal 25 miles on the lifecycle. I managed to do that, but more importantly I managed to hold a 95 cadence minimum on level 9 without the heart rate going above 135. It was relatively easy. I'm a morning person and always have an easier time when I hit the gym in the morning, just can't always get that to mesh with the schedule. All in all, I consider that reasonable progress for 1 month into this endeavor.
Bring on that 53 mile ride on Sunday!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................25
YTD.............98.....+........402....=.........500
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
MORE SNOW, night visibility test, and a mini goal
For the third day in a row the western Tualatin Valley had new snow on the ground this morning. What's up with that? There are years we don't get any snow, this year seems we just keep getting it. Unfortunately, at least on the valley floor, it's been melting each day meaning we have to deal with the slop and slush each day. There's just enough kid in me yet that I just wish it would cool a few degrees and SNOW.
I see that getting 500 miles in January is attainable with a little effort. (albiet mostly "pretend" miles in the gym this month) I don't have a monthly mileage goal but since 500 is so close I think I'll go for the nice round number.
The 53 mile birthday ride has been set. Up to 8 of us will be riding Sunday morning on the Butteville/Kaizer loop. If you want to join the "fun" (highs in the upper 30's, 60% chance of showers) leave a note here and I'll send you the details.
And lastly, a group of folks from the Cascade Bicycle Club got together a few nights ago to see what worked and what didn't to see and be seen on the roads at night.
To read their findings spend some time reading this forum thread.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................25
YTD.............98.....+........377....=.........475
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I see that getting 500 miles in January is attainable with a little effort. (albiet mostly "pretend" miles in the gym this month) I don't have a monthly mileage goal but since 500 is so close I think I'll go for the nice round number.
The 53 mile birthday ride has been set. Up to 8 of us will be riding Sunday morning on the Butteville/Kaizer loop. If you want to join the "fun" (highs in the upper 30's, 60% chance of showers) leave a note here and I'll send you the details.
And lastly, a group of folks from the Cascade Bicycle Club got together a few nights ago to see what worked and what didn't to see and be seen on the roads at night.
To read their findings spend some time reading this forum thread.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................25
YTD.............98.....+........377....=.........475
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Making progress on the New Year's Resolution
As you can tell, I visit the gym regularly. Every year I note the increase in attendance at the new year. It lasts for a month to 6 weeks, then we are back to just the "regulars". Seems that most can only focus on the best of intentions for about 6 weeks then the trials and tribulations of life get in the way. If you read my first post here you know that this year I made my first new year's resolution. So far I'm still on track. I'm well into the planning stages for this year's Race Across Oregon. Still 5 1/2 months before it starts so I'll be ready. The week before I'm already signed up for the 204 mile STP. No concerns with finishing in one day, more concerned about damage to the old body a week before RAO. I haven't had sore muscles since the first year I rode, so that's not a concern, more concerned about getting a tender posterior from 14 hours in the saddle. Can't have that! Don't want to break anything on the bike. Never had that issue, but don't want to start that this year! Part of my new year's resolution was to crew for a Furnace Creek 508 entrant. As of today it looks like I may have the opportunity to do just that. I'll keep you informed as that firms up.
I've also resolved to ride more hills. I can make the first check off that list in two weeks when I ride Chilly Hilly. I'm already registered for Chilly Hilly. There are ongoing discussions with friends for other noted rides with vertical challenges from Mt St Helens to Mt Shasta. There are no dearth of volcanoes to ride up in the great northwest!
We had another 1/2 inch of snow on the ground this morning. It's pretty much gone now, still some slush around, and some really hard rain and or snow showers on and off. Once again this bike pansy has decided that the warmth and safety of the gym looks pretty darn good.
Gee, wonder what will happen next Sunday when I join a few folks to ride REAL bikes for 53 miles. Wonder if I will remember how to balance and shift at the same time? :-O
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........352....=.........450
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I've also resolved to ride more hills. I can make the first check off that list in two weeks when I ride Chilly Hilly. I'm already registered for Chilly Hilly. There are ongoing discussions with friends for other noted rides with vertical challenges from Mt St Helens to Mt Shasta. There are no dearth of volcanoes to ride up in the great northwest!
We had another 1/2 inch of snow on the ground this morning. It's pretty much gone now, still some slush around, and some really hard rain and or snow showers on and off. Once again this bike pansy has decided that the warmth and safety of the gym looks pretty darn good.
Gee, wonder what will happen next Sunday when I join a few folks to ride REAL bikes for 53 miles. Wonder if I will remember how to balance and shift at the same time? :-O
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........352....=.........450
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, January 28, 2008
The school kids are ecstatic
The west end of the Tualatin Valley woke up this morning to just under an inch of snow on the ground. As you moved east the snow depth declined rapidly until by the time you got to Hillsboro (about 8 miles from here) it was just a dusting on the barkdust.
Once again this pansy opted for the safety and comfort of the gym. I'm going to have to start riding the real bike soon or I'll forget how to ride it!
If you have a little time and like to surf bike blogs take a look at Cecil Anne's blog. ("Formerly Floyd Speaks" on my blog listing, right column, bottom) Also take a look at Lynne F's blog. ("Lynne Rides") Some interesting reading. Both those ladies evidently have more intestinal fortitude than I..... or more friends who are willing to join them on cold wet winter rides!
Eric "Thrasher" Troili has been updating his blog as well. If you are as interested in the Furnace Creek 508 as I am, this is a must read. Click on "Eric "Thrasher" Troili's Furnace Creek 508 blog". It is worth the read to see what these competitors go through to finish this event. My hat is off to them.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........331....=.........429
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Once again this pansy opted for the safety and comfort of the gym. I'm going to have to start riding the real bike soon or I'll forget how to ride it!
If you have a little time and like to surf bike blogs take a look at Cecil Anne's blog. ("Formerly Floyd Speaks" on my blog listing, right column, bottom) Also take a look at Lynne F's blog. ("Lynne Rides") Some interesting reading. Both those ladies evidently have more intestinal fortitude than I..... or more friends who are willing to join them on cold wet winter rides!
Eric "Thrasher" Troili has been updating his blog as well. If you are as interested in the Furnace Creek 508 as I am, this is a must read. Click on "Eric "Thrasher" Troili's Furnace Creek 508 blog". It is worth the read to see what these competitors go through to finish this event. My hat is off to them.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........331....=.........429
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, January 27, 2008
A cool and foggy start to the day
Luckily it's warm and clear at the gym!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........310....=.........408
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........310....=.........408
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, January 26, 2008
The weather gurus were right!
There were stars shining at 5AM, low clouds by 7AM, freezing rain by 8:30AM. It'll be the artificial bike in the gym later today. I was looking at my totals, I guess it's just the time of year that the warm and dry (and TV!) of the gym win out over actual road miles. :-( That will change soon enough. Next weekend is my birthday ride, this year 53 miles. Two weeks later I make the trip to the Seattle area for Chilly Hilly. That might be chilly, it's sure to be HILLY! In between I will be in Central Oregon for a 4 day conference. I'm going to bring my bike and try to get in a little "high elevation training".
Yesterday I picked up a spare set of wheels for my bike. I put a new 12-27 9spd cassette on the rear hub this morning. Already got a set of Kevlar tires on them. That is one more step done in the preparation of Race Across Oregon. Since we are required to have our own support vehicle I'm going to have those spare wheels follow along. If I get a flat or break a spoke just swap a wheel and pedal on, have the support crew take the time to do the repairs. I currently have a triple chainring in front, 53/43/30, and 12-25 rear cassette. The 12-27 will give me the option of swapping in a lower gear ratio for the long climbs we will see on RAO.(does "Bakeoven Road" sound scary enough to you?)
Other news on the RAO front? My team is putting the final details on the registration plan. There is some talk about trying to obtain a corporate sponsor.
If you are a civic minded corporation looking to raise awareness by the public of your efforts, give me a shout. We four old coots will do you proud!
Evening Update:
I read in the print version of The Oregonian today that a young woman was "right hooked" by a Tri-Met bus while walking with the "walk signal" in a marked crosswalk.
Here's the article:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
TriMet bus injures woman walking dog near Lloyd Center
Posted by The Oregonian January 25, 2008 20:25PM
A woman remained hospitalized tonight after being struck by a TriMet bus while walking her dog near Lloyd Center in Portland.
The incident happened just after 4 p.m. at Northeast 21st Avenue and Multnomah Street. Witnesses told police that the bus, driven by 42-year-old Tracey Hughes, was turning north from Multnomah when it struck 65-year-old Patricia Smith in the crosswalk.
Smith was taken to Legacy Emanuel Hospital & Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
The bus had a green light when it was turning, and the pedestrian was crossing with the walk signal, the Portland Police Bureau reported. Investigators believe the driver lost sight of the pedestrian and continued her turn while the pedestrian was still in the intersection.
Neither speed nor impairment was a factor in the collision, police said.
-- Kimberly A.C. Wilson;
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
What interests me about this (beyond the obvious concern for the pedestrian) is what will become of the Tri-Met driver. In previous posts I've asked the rhetorical question when discussing the Jarolimek/Sparling/Doyle right hooks, "what would happen if that cyclist were a pedestrian in a crosswalk?" I'll be following this to find out that answer. Yes, when I find out I'll post it here.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........289....=.........386
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Yesterday I picked up a spare set of wheels for my bike. I put a new 12-27 9spd cassette on the rear hub this morning. Already got a set of Kevlar tires on them. That is one more step done in the preparation of Race Across Oregon. Since we are required to have our own support vehicle I'm going to have those spare wheels follow along. If I get a flat or break a spoke just swap a wheel and pedal on, have the support crew take the time to do the repairs. I currently have a triple chainring in front, 53/43/30, and 12-25 rear cassette. The 12-27 will give me the option of swapping in a lower gear ratio for the long climbs we will see on RAO.(does "Bakeoven Road" sound scary enough to you?)
Other news on the RAO front? My team is putting the final details on the registration plan. There is some talk about trying to obtain a corporate sponsor.
If you are a civic minded corporation looking to raise awareness by the public of your efforts, give me a shout. We four old coots will do you proud!
Evening Update:
I read in the print version of The Oregonian today that a young woman was "right hooked" by a Tri-Met bus while walking with the "walk signal" in a marked crosswalk.
Here's the article:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
TriMet bus injures woman walking dog near Lloyd Center
Posted by The Oregonian January 25, 2008 20:25PM
A woman remained hospitalized tonight after being struck by a TriMet bus while walking her dog near Lloyd Center in Portland.
The incident happened just after 4 p.m. at Northeast 21st Avenue and Multnomah Street. Witnesses told police that the bus, driven by 42-year-old Tracey Hughes, was turning north from Multnomah when it struck 65-year-old Patricia Smith in the crosswalk.
Smith was taken to Legacy Emanuel Hospital & Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
The bus had a green light when it was turning, and the pedestrian was crossing with the walk signal, the Portland Police Bureau reported. Investigators believe the driver lost sight of the pedestrian and continued her turn while the pedestrian was still in the intersection.
Neither speed nor impairment was a factor in the collision, police said.
-- Kimberly A.C. Wilson;
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
What interests me about this (beyond the obvious concern for the pedestrian) is what will become of the Tri-Met driver. In previous posts I've asked the rhetorical question when discussing the Jarolimek/Sparling/Doyle right hooks, "what would happen if that cyclist were a pedestrian in a crosswalk?" I'll be following this to find out that answer. Yes, when I find out I'll post it here.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................21
YTD.............98.....+........289....=.........386
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, January 25, 2008
The last sunny day
At least that's what the weather gurus are saying. I'm going to hop on the road bike and ride around Hagg Lake from the Lake Stop Store. That'll only give me a 15-17 mile ride if I remember, but by the time I get there that's about all the daylight I'll have left.
Just found THIS. Too much? Not enough? Chime in on the poll.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........15................0
YTD.............98.....+........267....=.........365
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Just found THIS. Too much? Not enough? Chime in on the poll.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........15................0
YTD.............98.....+........267....=.........365
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Another beautiful crisp January day
It's a beautiful day, cloudless, a bit brisk, a moderate wind here in SE Portland, less on the West side of town. I should be out riding, there are a ton of bikes out today but I'm running around SE Portland gathering "supplies" for the Race Across Oregon endeavor. Since we are required to have a personal support vehicle I figured I might as well use it. I'm getting a second set of wheels and tires for my bike so I don't have to take time to change any flats, just swap wheels and let the support crew change the tire. I also figured given the hills that a rear cog set more in tune with climbing wouldn't be bad. If there is a long hill coming up take the minute or so to swap the rear wheel for one with the climbing gears. After RAO I'll let you know if that plan worked out for me. ;-)
Tired...lazy....saving my energy for tomorrow......whatever.
No bike today. I'll do better tomorrow
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................0
YTD.............83.....+........267....=.........350
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tired...lazy....saving my energy for tomorrow......whatever.
No bike today. I'll do better tomorrow
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................0
YTD.............83.....+........267....=.........350
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Truck Driver who kills Tracey Sparling fined $242
The Portland Police have cited Rinker Cement truck driver Timothy Wiles for failure to yield to a bicyclist in a bicycle lane, ORS 811.500, when he drove over Tracey Sparling who was cycling in a bike lane. That citation carries a fine of $242. I did not know her, but am outraged that society does not value her life more than that.
As bad as that is for me, it's still better than the decision to not cite AGG Enterprises garbage truck driver Bryan Lowes for running over Brett Jarolimek.
While I agree with the finding that it does not appear that criminal prosecution is warranted, the driver DID NONE THE LESS FAIL TO YIELD. If I were the Jarolimek family I'd be looking into the possibility of filing a civil suit against AGG for putting a driver with such a bad driving record behind the wheel of one of their big trucks..... that resulted in the death of Brett.
Siobhan Doyle through a lawyer issued a citizen initiated citation when the Portland Police decided that they would not issue a citation to the vehicle that hit her as she cycled in a bike lane.
It seems that "I didn't see" the cyclist is a valid excuse to the Portland Police. I may try that if I ever get pulled over for running a red light. "Sorry officer, I was reaching for my cell phone and latte and didn't see the light turn red" :-O
BikePortland has a good article on these events. Please go here and read the full story.
I have other posts on this subject here , here
and here
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................12
YTD.............83.....+........267....=.........350
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As bad as that is for me, it's still better than the decision to not cite AGG Enterprises garbage truck driver Bryan Lowes for running over Brett Jarolimek.
While I agree with the finding that it does not appear that criminal prosecution is warranted, the driver DID NONE THE LESS FAIL TO YIELD. If I were the Jarolimek family I'd be looking into the possibility of filing a civil suit against AGG for putting a driver with such a bad driving record behind the wheel of one of their big trucks..... that resulted in the death of Brett.
Siobhan Doyle through a lawyer issued a citizen initiated citation when the Portland Police decided that they would not issue a citation to the vehicle that hit her as she cycled in a bike lane.
It seems that "I didn't see" the cyclist is a valid excuse to the Portland Police. I may try that if I ever get pulled over for running a red light. "Sorry officer, I was reaching for my cell phone and latte and didn't see the light turn red" :-O
BikePortland has a good article on these events. Please go here and read the full story.
I have other posts on this subject here , here
and here
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................12
YTD.............83.....+........267....=.........350
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
New links added
I have recently added 2 new links. Both are online ride search tools. If you want to know if there are any organized rides available just plug in your search parameters and out pops a list. Pretty cool I think. They are located along the right side of the page, right below the bike clubs listing.
UPDATE:
Perhaps I'm not a bike rider after all. I found myself with a bit of time this afternoon. The sky was cloudless, winds were just a bit breezy but manageable, cold, but not overly so. I could have/should have bundled up and hit the road. Instead I opted for the artificial bike at the gym. Pretty sunshine out the windows, and CNN in the earbuds. Clip in, tune in, zone out and pedal.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................31
YTD.............83.....+........255....=.........338
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
UPDATE:
Perhaps I'm not a bike rider after all. I found myself with a bit of time this afternoon. The sky was cloudless, winds were just a bit breezy but manageable, cold, but not overly so. I could have/should have bundled up and hit the road. Instead I opted for the artificial bike at the gym. Pretty sunshine out the windows, and CNN in the earbuds. Clip in, tune in, zone out and pedal.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................31
YTD.............83.....+........255....=.........338
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, January 21, 2008
Brrrrrrrrrrrrr
For those in NW Oregon I don't need to mention this, but for the rest of you.....
it was COLD today! The low this morning was in the mid teens and the high was 32 along with a very brisk east wind. Humidity was just below 30%. Tomorrow is predicted to be about 5 degrees colder on both numbers. That's a bit chilly for these parts.
I opted for the artificial bike in the gym tonight.
The training for STP/RAO and the whole rest of this crazy quest is going well. Resting heart rate this morning was 60, down about 15 since January 1st. It will be down another 15 or so by the end of March.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................22
YTD.............83.....+........224....=.........307
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
it was COLD today! The low this morning was in the mid teens and the high was 32 along with a very brisk east wind. Humidity was just below 30%. Tomorrow is predicted to be about 5 degrees colder on both numbers. That's a bit chilly for these parts.
I opted for the artificial bike in the gym tonight.
The training for STP/RAO and the whole rest of this crazy quest is going well. Resting heart rate this morning was 60, down about 15 since January 1st. It will be down another 15 or so by the end of March.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0................22
YTD.............83.....+........224....=.........307
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Just another day in January on a bike. ;-)
We ended up with 4 of us today in our little group of Sauvie Island bike riders. Dave, Laura, Jeri, and I all rode a lap (12 mi) then Jeri and I rode along the Multnomah Channel to the county line and back. Jeri and I ended up with 27 miles. It was a good day, better than should be expected in January in Oregon, but not as good as last week. It was a bit cool today but we kept the pace quick enough to keep warm....except for the wind chill on the hands! A good ride, thanks to my riding buddies for joining me!
53 mile birthday ride in 2 weeks!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........27...............0
YTD.............83.....+........202....=.........285
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, January 18, 2008
On the Road Again! (sing along!)
Took the Grand Lodge out and around Hagg Lake and back trip today. A bit chilly, but dry and no wind. It doesn't get a lot better than that in Oregon in January.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........28...............0
YTD.............56......+........202....=.........258
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........28...............0
YTD.............56......+........202....=.........258
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Clear and Cold
That's the weather forecast beginning Sunday. If the weather gurus are correct there could be ice in the shadows all day.
Sunday H 40 L 20
Monday H 37 L 18
I'm still hoping to ride Hagg Lake Sunday. It may end up being a good week to be on the artificial bike. That's where I'll be tonight, practicing all those good shifting skills I learned last night. ;-)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today............0...............10
YTD.............28......+........202....=.........230
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday H 40 L 20
Monday H 37 L 18
I'm still hoping to ride Hagg Lake Sunday. It may end up being a good week to be on the artificial bike. That's where I'll be tonight, practicing all those good shifting skills I learned last night. ;-)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today............0...............10
YTD.............28......+........202....=.........230
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Tonight we learned how to shift gears! .... `bout time!
I think most of us learned a thing or two, even if it was relearning something that we knew once but had forgotten about. The admission was free so all it cost was time, and it was a good time to spend with other cyclists.
Keep your eyes on upcoming Bike Gallery classes. They cover basic maintenance, flat repair, as well as some other "bikey topics".
With a full day at work and then the gear shifting clinic I didn't get on the bike today. :-( I will have more time Friday so as of now my plan is to ride the road bike +/- 40 miles on Friday and then on Sunday likely to ride from Forest Grove to Hagg Lake, ride a lap or two, then back to FG. That would be ~33 to 45 miles. Anyone is welcome to join me.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today............0...............0
YTD.............28......+........192....=.........220
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
2nd Down and how many to go?
I finally got my signals straight, I'll be at Bike Gallery tonight for the shifting class at 6PM. If you are looking for something to do on a Wednesday evening come on by. If nothing else you can join me in ogling the shiny new bikes! ;-)
The weather looks like it's turned around for the next few days. Frosty/foggy mornings but sunny and dry afternoons. I'll likely ride after my meeting in Salem on Saturday, maybe transporting the bike back up this way to do so, or maybe riding out from Salem. Sunday might be a Hagg Lake loop or maybe back to Sauvie Island, depends on who I'm riding with.
Don't let the sunny weather pass you by, dust your bike off and join in the fun!
The weather looks like it's turned around for the next few days. Frosty/foggy mornings but sunny and dry afternoons. I'll likely ride after my meeting in Salem on Saturday, maybe transporting the bike back up this way to do so, or maybe riding out from Salem. Sunday might be a Hagg Lake loop or maybe back to Sauvie Island, depends on who I'm riding with.
Don't let the sunny weather pass you by, dust your bike off and join in the fun!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
False Start.......5 yd penalty? ;-)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today............0...............15
YTD.............28......+........192....=.........220
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Getting into Gear!
Tonight I'm attending a class at the Beaverton Bike Gallery (12345 SW Canyon Road, 6PM)
Of all things, it's a class on proper shifting! Who knew we needed a class on this? ;-) Oh heck, it's a chance to visit with other cyclists and there might just be something to learn too! If you're in the area drop by, no registration needed, and it's free.
MIDDAY UPDATE:
Truck driver in Brett Jarolimek case found not criminally negligent.
Your thoughts?
Of all things, it's a class on proper shifting! Who knew we needed a class on this? ;-) Oh heck, it's a chance to visit with other cyclists and there might just be something to learn too! If you're in the area drop by, no registration needed, and it's free.
MIDDAY UPDATE:
Truck driver in Brett Jarolimek case found not criminally negligent.
Your thoughts?
Monday, January 14, 2008
Back to the Daily Grind
After a glorius day on the bike yesterday, it's back to cool and a bit damp today. Not rain, just ....foggy with a little drizzle from time to time......and damp. Though the days are getting noticably longer it will be dark by the time I'm off work. I'm not fond of riding on dark wet streets so it's back to the gym and the artificial bike tonight for me.
Started getting some snow mixed with rain on the drive to the gym, it's a nice night to ride an artificial bike while watching TV!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today............0...............21
YTD.............28......+........177....=.........205
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Started getting some snow mixed with rain on the drive to the gym, it's a nice night to ride an artificial bike while watching TV!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today............0...............21
YTD.............28......+........177....=.........205
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, January 13, 2008
A beautiful day in the neighborhood!
Five of us rode on Sauvie Island today. An absolutely gorgeous day! Started out a bit foggy but cleared right up, a beautiful blue sky day. It was a nice day to be on a bike. I failed to get a still photo but took some avi video from the helmet cam however the file is too big to post here. I'll see what I can do about modifying file size........as time allows
Today's peloton included Dave, Laura, John, Quinn, and I. John and Quinn rode out from Portland so they will get 22 miles more than I did. It was Laura's first day on her new road bike. Like most of us did on our first rides, she took a tumble when she came to a stop and found she was still attached to the pedals. We did our best not to laugh too hard. ;-) A little mud on the jacket but no damage other than pride. I ended up with 28 miles on the road bike today.... would have been nice to ride a few more, but alas, a cold beer called my name. (waiting for it to be served as I type!!!)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........28...............0
YTD.............28......+........156....=.........184
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Today's peloton included Dave, Laura, John, Quinn, and I. John and Quinn rode out from Portland so they will get 22 miles more than I did. It was Laura's first day on her new road bike. Like most of us did on our first rides, she took a tumble when she came to a stop and found she was still attached to the pedals. We did our best not to laugh too hard. ;-) A little mud on the jacket but no damage other than pride. I ended up with 28 miles on the road bike today.... would have been nice to ride a few more, but alas, a cold beer called my name. (waiting for it to be served as I type!!!)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........28...............0
YTD.............28......+........156....=.........184
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Winter continues
Attended a funeral today......it's always a sign of a life well spent when 600+ people show up to your funeral.
At the service today there was talk of even the darkest Winters giving way to the new life of Spring. And so it is with bikes too. The days are already getting longer, before we know it the warm blue skies will be calling us to come ride a slew of metric centuries, full centuries, randos, and even a bunch of shorter "fun rides". Will you be ready to answer the call?
I don't want the dry season rides to come along and not have me be ready to ride, so today I once again made my way to the gym. (remember, I'm a pansy when it comes to riding in the rain!) Today I managed to "ride" 15 miles, a short run for me but considering tomorrow I'm still planning on riding the real bike a lap or two around Sauvie Island it will do.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............15
YTD.............0......+........156....=.........156
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
At the service today there was talk of even the darkest Winters giving way to the new life of Spring. And so it is with bikes too. The days are already getting longer, before we know it the warm blue skies will be calling us to come ride a slew of metric centuries, full centuries, randos, and even a bunch of shorter "fun rides". Will you be ready to answer the call?
I don't want the dry season rides to come along and not have me be ready to ride, so today I once again made my way to the gym. (remember, I'm a pansy when it comes to riding in the rain!) Today I managed to "ride" 15 miles, a short run for me but considering tomorrow I'm still planning on riding the real bike a lap or two around Sauvie Island it will do.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............15
YTD.............0......+........156....=.........156
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, January 11, 2008
Automobile culture and bias
It's not hard for a judge or grand jury to imagine themselves in the position of driving an automobile, following all the rules, and have another driver in a moment of inattention or carelessness cause a collision that kills them. "Obviously" they say, "They were wrong, they must pay for their carelessness."
A woman was recently sentenced to 30 months in jail for carelessly causing a collision that took the life of another innocent driver. (STORY HERE)
It seems much harder for them to imagine themselves in the position of a cyclist who has the same thing happen. (STORY HERE) and (HERE) (be sure to read the full report in pdf format)
and also in the case of Siobhan Doyle where the police didn't cite so a citizen citation was issued.
Perhaps we need to invite more judges to join us on our weekend rides. Perhaps we need to be more vocal about the inequities of the system. Perhaps we need to write a few letters to the Oregonian.
Perhaps the driver of the cement truck that drove over Tracy Sparling will yet be charged with failure to yield. IMHO, it's too little too late. His inattention killed a rider who was in a bike lane doing everything legally. She paid with her young life for his inattention.
What if she was your daughter/girlfriend/wife?
Write a letter.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............33
YTD.............0......+........141....=.........141
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
A woman was recently sentenced to 30 months in jail for carelessly causing a collision that took the life of another innocent driver. (STORY HERE)
It seems much harder for them to imagine themselves in the position of a cyclist who has the same thing happen. (STORY HERE) and (HERE) (be sure to read the full report in pdf format)
and also in the case of Siobhan Doyle where the police didn't cite so a citizen citation was issued.
Perhaps we need to invite more judges to join us on our weekend rides. Perhaps we need to be more vocal about the inequities of the system. Perhaps we need to write a few letters to the Oregonian.
Perhaps the driver of the cement truck that drove over Tracy Sparling will yet be charged with failure to yield. IMHO, it's too little too late. His inattention killed a rider who was in a bike lane doing everything legally. She paid with her young life for his inattention.
What if she was your daughter/girlfriend/wife?
Write a letter.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............33
YTD.............0......+........141....=.........141
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Worse Day?
A few of my teammates from the upcoming Race Across Oregon will be participating in the Worse Day of the Year Ride on February 9th. My brother-in-law and STP partner niece will likely be riding too. I can't, I'll be in Central Oregon finishing up a multi-day conference, but if you want to ride the organizers will be happy to take your registration!
Update:
A wild weather day here. A little lightning, a little rain, some hail.... a little snow mixed with rain........ and in the low 50's for a high. (50's? January in Oregon???) There was even a tornado across the river near Vancouver WA. Not totally unheard of, but this one was by far the largest I can remember of. I remember perhaps 2 others. Seems that the same area of Washington has born the brunt of them. By midwest standards it was nothing, but you should have heard the local media have a field day with it!
I won't get a chance to ride the real bike or the artificial bike today, have other plans, but several of us are looking at the weather forecast and working towards a Sunday ride. If you are in the area and want to join us drop me a note.
Stay tuned!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............0
YTD.............0......+.......108....=.........108
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Update:
A wild weather day here. A little lightning, a little rain, some hail.... a little snow mixed with rain........ and in the low 50's for a high. (50's? January in Oregon???) There was even a tornado across the river near Vancouver WA. Not totally unheard of, but this one was by far the largest I can remember of. I remember perhaps 2 others. Seems that the same area of Washington has born the brunt of them. By midwest standards it was nothing, but you should have heard the local media have a field day with it!
I won't get a chance to ride the real bike or the artificial bike today, have other plans, but several of us are looking at the weather forecast and working towards a Sunday ride. If you are in the area and want to join us drop me a note.
Stay tuned!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............0
YTD.............0......+.......108....=.........108
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
In the blink of an eye................
A neighbor of mine died today. He was hit head on while driving his pickup by another vehicle that lost control on a patch of ice. He was a good man, active in the community and a 4H leader. He was my kids’ first 4H leader, starting them off on many years of blue ribbons and championships. He pointed many kids on the right path to becoming valuable community members. The community and I will miss Brian Herinckx.
The accident happened very near where a member of Portland Velo, Tim O'Donnell , was killed while cycling earlier this year. It got me to thinking of just how fragile life is, and the inequities of the application of law when it comes to cyclist accidents. Within the last year or so there have been several bike/car collisions. Darrel and Sheryl McDaniel were cycling their way home from a lap of Hagg Lake when they were killed by a car, that while attempting to pass another car on the right, entered the paved shoulder and ran over them. The driver was cited for illegal lane use. Period. Tracy Sparling and Brett Jarolimek were both killed by drivers who “right hooked” them as they were riding in bike lanes. Neither driver was cited for any violation, though they both obviously failed to yield to a bicycle in a bicycle lane.
(violaton of ORS 811.050)UPDATE: Driver in Sparling collision cited.
Sixteen months ago a woman ran a stop sign and collided with me on my bike. I incurred $26,000 in medical bills plus damage to my bike, plus loss of wages, and finally paid a lawyer to get the insurance company to do what they should have done right from the start. What happened to the driver? She was cited for "failure to obey a traffic control device". Yup, I'm sure that will make her think twice next time.
Today I read in the paper that a driver who ran a red light while distracted with happenings in her car and t-boned another vehicle killing the driver was sentenced to 30 months in prison on a charge of vehicular homicide.
Why aren’t those drivers who drove over cyclists being equally charged and convicted?
Lives can change in a blink of an eye.
Life is indeed fragile, ride legal, ride safe, ride defensively………but ride!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............24
YTD.............0......+.......108....=.........108
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The accident happened very near where a member of Portland Velo, Tim O'Donnell , was killed while cycling earlier this year. It got me to thinking of just how fragile life is, and the inequities of the application of law when it comes to cyclist accidents. Within the last year or so there have been several bike/car collisions. Darrel and Sheryl McDaniel were cycling their way home from a lap of Hagg Lake when they were killed by a car, that while attempting to pass another car on the right, entered the paved shoulder and ran over them. The driver was cited for illegal lane use. Period. Tracy Sparling and Brett Jarolimek were both killed by drivers who “right hooked” them as they were riding in bike lanes. Neither driver was cited for any violation, though they both obviously failed to yield to a bicycle in a bicycle lane.
(violaton of ORS 811.050)UPDATE: Driver in Sparling collision cited.
Sixteen months ago a woman ran a stop sign and collided with me on my bike. I incurred $26,000 in medical bills plus damage to my bike, plus loss of wages, and finally paid a lawyer to get the insurance company to do what they should have done right from the start. What happened to the driver? She was cited for "failure to obey a traffic control device". Yup, I'm sure that will make her think twice next time.
Today I read in the paper that a driver who ran a red light while distracted with happenings in her car and t-boned another vehicle killing the driver was sentenced to 30 months in prison on a charge of vehicular homicide.
Why aren’t those drivers who drove over cyclists being equally charged and convicted?
Lives can change in a blink of an eye.
Life is indeed fragile, ride legal, ride safe, ride defensively………but ride!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............24
YTD.............0......+.......108....=.........108
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
It's beginning to look a lot like....?
3" of snow this AM, and on the way to work in the dark I pass a guy on a bike pedaling his way through the stuff ....with blinky and a reflective jacket! You go guy!
If the weather gurus are correct it sounds like I may finally get out on my real bike this weekend for the first time this year.
I opted for the artificial bike tonight. (pansy that I am!)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............25
YTD.............0......+........84....=.........84
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
If the weather gurus are correct it sounds like I may finally get out on my real bike this weekend for the first time this year.
I opted for the artificial bike tonight. (pansy that I am!)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............25
YTD.............0......+........84....=.........84
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, January 7, 2008
How to Fix a Flat Tire on a Road Bike
After hearing so many people say they didn't feel comfortable with their flat repair skills I decided to see if I could find something to help educate. This YouTube video does a pretty good job. I've embedded the video at the bottom of this blog, or you can click on the title of this post and go to YouTube directly.
Hope this helps!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............13
YTD.............0......+........59....=.........59
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hope this helps!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............13
YTD.............0......+........59....=.........59
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, January 6, 2008
The morning after
Well, I gave a bike safety presentation at a local bike group meeting last night. Argh... started out with not being able to access the meeting room until well after the whole group was there waiting for the door to be unlocked and we were already a half hour late, then moved on to not being well prepared. Ah, live and learn! If I ever have the chance to do that again it WILL be better!
As promised .....since I failed to have handouts available :-( here's a list of weblinks that I referenced during the presentation:
Safe Cycling Techniques
Two Wheel Life
How to Not Get Hit by Cars
How to properly adjust a bike helmet
Bike helmet fitting video
Bike brake care and adjustment:
Sheldon Brown's bike reflector information (and a whole lot more):
Adult Bike Safety video: (this time the voice matches the pictures!)
The red blinkie I heartily recommend is the "Planet Bike Super Flash", $20-$25 worth every penny. Available at REI, Joe's Outdoor, Bike Gallery, and others.
We have a bit of snow on the ground in my part of the country this morning. I think I'll go to the gym and ride the artificial bike........while watching TV. :-)
UPDATE!
I did in fact ride at the gym today. When there I ride a LifeCycle 9500HR. I ride a level 9, about as close to riding my road bike as I can estimate, and I hold between 90-100 cadence. Today I held a 100 cadence minimum for an hour giving me 22 miles. The last 5 minutes I played a bit, I set the level to 1 and while holding the 100+ cadence bumped the resistance up a level every twenty seconds. I made it to level 15 today before I decided that was enough.(gasp, wheez, lactic acid buildup!) According the the machine I was putting out 263 watts and burning calories at something like 1038/hr. Oh, and my heart rate was at 170! I finished with a couple of minutes of level 1 "cool down" bringing my total today to 23 miles. My resting heart rate right now is around 55. By mid summer my resting rate will be in the mid 40's. I've also decided that my total bike mile tally needs to reflect real bike vs artificial bike, so I'll make that change as well.
Have a good day all!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............23
YTD.............0......+........46....=.........46
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As promised .....since I failed to have handouts available :-( here's a list of weblinks that I referenced during the presentation:
Safe Cycling Techniques
Two Wheel Life
How to Not Get Hit by Cars
How to properly adjust a bike helmet
Bike helmet fitting video
Bike brake care and adjustment:
Sheldon Brown's bike reflector information (and a whole lot more):
Adult Bike Safety video: (this time the voice matches the pictures!)
The red blinkie I heartily recommend is the "Planet Bike Super Flash", $20-$25 worth every penny. Available at REI, Joe's Outdoor, Bike Gallery, and others.
We have a bit of snow on the ground in my part of the country this morning. I think I'll go to the gym and ride the artificial bike........while watching TV. :-)
UPDATE!
I did in fact ride at the gym today. When there I ride a LifeCycle 9500HR. I ride a level 9, about as close to riding my road bike as I can estimate, and I hold between 90-100 cadence. Today I held a 100 cadence minimum for an hour giving me 22 miles. The last 5 minutes I played a bit, I set the level to 1 and while holding the 100+ cadence bumped the resistance up a level every twenty seconds. I made it to level 15 today before I decided that was enough.(gasp, wheez, lactic acid buildup!) According the the machine I was putting out 263 watts and burning calories at something like 1038/hr. Oh, and my heart rate was at 170! I finished with a couple of minutes of level 1 "cool down" bringing my total today to 23 miles. My resting heart rate right now is around 55. By mid summer my resting rate will be in the mid 40's. I've also decided that my total bike mile tally needs to reflect real bike vs artificial bike, so I'll make that change as well.
Have a good day all!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............23
YTD.............0......+........46....=.........46
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, January 4, 2008
Blustery day in the neighborhood
It's kind of a blustery day today in NW Oregon and will be dark soon. I'm going to work on the Powerpoint presentation on bike safety that I have to give tomorrow. If the weather cooperates I hope to go for a ride on Sunday with my niece Laura. She just bought a new road bike and plans to ride STP this July with me. We are going to try to train together a bit this season. Typical Oregon Spring weather tells us that most of the early season rides will involve some form of precipitation. Rain, showers, mist, drizzle, it's all wet. It's a lot more fun to ride when it's dry, but if we don't start when it's a bit wet then when the weather finally turns we won't be ready........ and the 204 mile STP will come whether we are ready or not! ;-)
Miles Today: 0
YTD Miles: 23
Miles Today: 0
YTD Miles: 23
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Bike Safety
Perhaps I should start thinking about bike safety. By some stroke of fate I have the assigment of giving an hour long presention on bike safety Saturday evening to a bike group I belong to. I've been tossing around a few ideas and gathering a few graphics and facts for a Powerpoint presentation but haven't actually put it together yet. I'm thinking I should touch on reflective gear, lights, helmets, road hazards, proper lane usage, and bike law. Uh....I guess I better get started!++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles YTD
Today...........0...............23
YTD.............0......+........23....=.........23
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Remembering Brett Jarolimek
ORS 811.050
“A person commits the offense of failure of a motor vehicle operator to yield to a rider on a bicycle lane if the person is operating a motor vehicle and the person does not yield the right of way to a person operating a bicycle, electric assisted bicycle, moped, motor assisted scooter or motorized wheelchair upon a bicycle lane.”
I just read Kimberly Wilson's Oregonian article on Oregonlive. The article was describing BTA's New Year's Day ride in Portland. She did a good job of describing the concerns of cyclists but I was concerned when I read the following:
"Like many in the crowd Tuesday, she rode in memory of Jarolimek, 31, who was killed in a "right hook" collision as he cycled down a bike lane into the path of a turning garbage truck."
If you don't think that's responsible reporting contact:
kimberlywilson@news.oregonian.com
I did.
++++Letter to Oregonian reporter++++++
Ms Wilson,
I just read your article on the New Year's Day ride. Good job on describing the concerns of participants, however I was really concerned when I read the following:
"Like many in the crowd Tuesday, she rode in memory of Jarolimek, 31, who was killed in a "right hook" collision as he cycled down a bike lane into the path of a turning garbage truck."
I'm not so sure that he "cycled down a bike lane into the path of a turning garbage truck" nearly as much a a turning garbage truck failed to yield right of way to a cyclist riding in a bike lane.
Your article gives the impression that Brett did something wrong. He was riding legally. What was illegal is that the cement truck entered the bike lane without yielding to a cyclist. It's bad enough that the police don't enforce the laws in these situations, please don't add to the public's perception that the cement truck driver's actions might just have been okay.
---------------------------------------------------------
Miles Today: 0
YTD Miles: 0 :-(
“A person commits the offense of failure of a motor vehicle operator to yield to a rider on a bicycle lane if the person is operating a motor vehicle and the person does not yield the right of way to a person operating a bicycle, electric assisted bicycle, moped, motor assisted scooter or motorized wheelchair upon a bicycle lane.”
I just read Kimberly Wilson's Oregonian article on Oregonlive. The article was describing BTA's New Year's Day ride in Portland. She did a good job of describing the concerns of cyclists but I was concerned when I read the following:
"Like many in the crowd Tuesday, she rode in memory of Jarolimek, 31, who was killed in a "right hook" collision as he cycled down a bike lane into the path of a turning garbage truck."
If you don't think that's responsible reporting contact:
kimberlywilson@news.oregonian.com
I did.
++++Letter to Oregonian reporter++++++
Ms Wilson,
I just read your article on the New Year's Day ride. Good job on describing the concerns of participants, however I was really concerned when I read the following:
"Like many in the crowd Tuesday, she rode in memory of Jarolimek, 31, who was killed in a "right hook" collision as he cycled down a bike lane into the path of a turning garbage truck."
I'm not so sure that he "cycled down a bike lane into the path of a turning garbage truck" nearly as much a a turning garbage truck failed to yield right of way to a cyclist riding in a bike lane.
Your article gives the impression that Brett did something wrong. He was riding legally. What was illegal is that the cement truck entered the bike lane without yielding to a cyclist. It's bad enough that the police don't enforce the laws in these situations, please don't add to the public's perception that the cement truck driver's actions might just have been okay.
---------------------------------------------------------
Miles Today: 0
YTD Miles: 0 :-(
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Registered!
Happy New Year! I got an early start on my Cascade Bicycle Club registrations, I'm signed up for STP and Chilly Hilly! I should have an STP registration number below 1000 I'd think, likely getting that ink weight saving of 25% over the 4 digit numbers. ;-) A good start to the year!
update:
OK, so maybe not a perfect start to the year. It was great weather today for a bike ride........ but I didn't get out on the bike. So...................
Today's Miles: 0
YTD Miles: 0
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