The nice lady on the radio said it was +9C, but it didn't feel as warm as when the sun was out last week. The ride home was better, but it felt very humid. No issues to speak of.
I rode home this afternoon in short sleeves shirt, and I think it was a bit chilly for that. I did have a tail wind this morning, and I got myself a new kick ass light, so Fish Creek park wasn't as terrifying as usual. Saw lots of bikes out today despite the cooler temps.
saw a MEC bike employee suggesting to 2 newbie riders that the turtle lights (ie 2 small little LED's) are sufficient to be seen when sharing the road w/ vehicles and that the Planet Bike 1W and/or 2W are just overkill. Seriously?
I was off last week and so did not ride but during my rides early yesterday and today, I was appalled at the number of riders who don't even use a single light while riding in the dark. Shows to me that they don't have respect for their fellow pathway users, are too stupid or cheap to buy a set of lights ("I ride mainly on paths that have streets lights by them" or "I'll only be riding for a little while longer") and have no idea about city bylaws (we are required to have both a tail- and headlight). Those turtle lights are great for joggers but not for cycling, especially in areas that have no street lighting.
And while I am on a roll, if you do have a good LED headlight, please do NOT have it set to the flashing mode! Do you see cars driving with flashing headlights? The flashing is very distracting as you approach other people on the paths.
Unfortunately, I am pretty sure that the majority of these ninja/flasher riders don't frequent this forum so this is a waste of electrons. ;-)
I was passed by a guy this morning who had no lights on his bike. And believe me it was DARK. There is NO way a vehicle would see him if they were coming up behind. I wear a tail light on my bike AND my helmet. I WANT cars to see me, so they can make adjustments in time and give me space to be safe. And X2 on the blinking headlight!
To be fair lets clarify LED headlights... now there are the little 0.5W, 1W, and 2W LED headlights (ie Planet Bike for example). I'm ok w/ these on the paths whether steady beam or blinky.
Then there are the 100lumen and higher lumen set on blinky mode. I firmly believe in their on-street usage. My 8+ years of year-round cycling has reinforced multiple times that when on steady mode I do not get noticed/respected by vehicles as compared to blinky/flasher mode. I am including both front and rear lights. Does this makes me a part-time ninja/flash rider Dionysis?
As with everything there is a time and a place for everything. If you are exclusively (or 95%) a MUP user your requirements may be significantly different than a 40km/day commuter w/ 75% on street exposure. I'm in the latter category and do sometimes forget to turn down the lights when on the MUPS but this forum has made me more aware that I should. In any case, don't look at my lights, again, with your remaining good eye. ;)
about the type of light that is flashing. I agree that those little turtle lights are no big deal, just the brighter models.
I know my rant seemed a bit harsh - must be in a bad mood having to go back to work after the nice week in B.C. 8-)
And not all strong blinking lights are bad as long as they are not directed too far ahead of you so that they end up shining in the eyes of oncoming cyclists. I personally have started to wear my light on my helmet simply because I can then direct the light to where I want to see. Of course, this also means I have to be very careful when looking at passing MUP users - don't want to blind them when I look at them!
Have you seen the latest thing for riding in the dark? They attach to your spokes and as you ride, it essentially makes your tires "glow". Great for people coming towards you at a right angle but not so useful head-on.
I've also seen mini projectors that flash a message on the pavement in front of you as you ride! Amazing what people can come up with.
All too often the rear bike/pannier/backpack mount lights get dirty, have low batteries, or are too low to really be noticed. It's been a pet-peeve of mine on the MUPs and road commuting.
Last year I started putting red MEC 2-LED Turtle blinky's on the back of my helmet, each aimed approx 45degrees apart but essentially facing backwards. I've actually had more than 1 motorist tell me (in a friendly way) that this was highly effective. I also put white blinkies on each front fork leg (facing forward, approx 45degrees apart) which hopefully improves side-exposure.
What gets me is people complain that's it's too expensive to put lights on your bike. True you can spend $100's, but you can easily get away with $30-40 for effective lighting and reflector tape from MEC. What does an injury or accident cost you by comparison? (bike repairs, clothing replacement, injury, time off work, pain, city transit costs/exposure or driving/parking, etc etc...).
Now to put my valve-stem lights on and you can all call me "Santa's Christmas Tree" as I zip along.
Saw my first example of this for this season yesterday. Can anyone explain to me the logic for this? The fact that the guy was also intermittently riding on the wrong side of the path seemed likely to lead to an accident.
Back in the day, when he was being pursued by the NWMP or RCMP or whatever they were, he wore his snowsnows backwards in order throw off the scent. It seemed to work.
Perhaps your wrong side of the path/red lights on front guy was a descendant.
I win the prize for most obscure trivia and subject line
There is a different cost to "being seen" versus "being able to see" along dark unlit pathways. To be seen, a couple of white turtles facing forward (fork or on the bars spaced out a bit) and a couple on the back - I use the supports for my rear rack to mount them, are more than enough. But on a cold moonless morning before pre-dawn light on the unlit pathway you need a few hundred watts. I thought I could get away with the $50 or so MEC lights (2 watts or so) but nearly took out an early morning walker, just seeing him at the last second and veering around him.
Seeing as I can't rely on others to be seen, I have to carry enough light to see far enough so I don't overdrive and assume there is someone dressed in flat black walking in front of me in the same direction, around the blind corner.
...has gone off the cliff, employee-wise. It used to be that you could ask 1 or 2 employees and find someone who'd used whatever it is that you're looking at. Now, you're lucky to find someone who can remember what the "training" told them to say about the sleeping bag or whatever. They seem to have scared away many of the "actual" outdoor folks, sadly.
Those turtle lights are stupid, throw-away crap. They're probably great to sit on a road bike that you "never" take out a night "just in case" or as a backup, but please get a Planet Bike superflash or similar (ideally, two) if you're going to head out on the road at night "on purpose".
I do find that the mounts sheer off somewhat easily (I've lost about 4 lights). Although I guess I'm a little hard on these things :)
Yeah I've lost a few lights like that as well. I'm kinda rough on my bike too. I have a couple of "blinkies" permanently attached to my frame in case I've forgotten my main lights (or they got sheered off lol) or if I'm out later than I thought I'd be (this time of year and later seems to be an issue)
Good lights are a must for me, since I'm basically a year round rider and for about 4 months of that it's in pitch black. Love that creepy feeling though.
Anyway, I wish night time joggers would wear lights. I've had some near mishaps
Been riding for years and years with great commuter backpacks. This week I figured what-the-heck may as well try some Panniers. Had 3 rides and certainly are different. What's your experiences and why?
I've already come to the following conclusions:
In the heat panniers keep you cooler
In the cool backpack keeps you warmer
How do they affect your bike handling in the winter?
If you're going to have just one or two panniers, try them on the front!
I haven't used this a lot in the winter (I've been using a tiny backpack mostly; no pannier mounts on the bike I use in the winter) but they sure make you corner better in the summer so I imagine they'd be great in the winter.
I like my front panniers, although I only use them for commuting when I have a lot of stuff to transport. But I don't think they would be a real help in the winter. I find I need to un-weight my front wheel quite frequently when winter riding, whether it is to get out of a rut or when hitting a snow drift. And on those days when I have to get off and push through 10" of snow, up hill, having the weight on the back just seems to make more sense.
But to the bigger question: panniers >>> backpacks
More constricted with a back pack and with a heavy one y ou CG starts to shift too high. Plus I don't like sweaty back syndrome which a back pack quickly causes. I ride with a single pannier on the back (left side) and if riding a bike set u p for front panniers I'll pu it in the front left. The panniers generally are not very heavy in any case.
I love my panniers, especially in the heat of the summer (no sweaty back). I REALLY like them in the snow -- that extra weight gets shifted over your rear tire for extra traction (it makes a substantive difference). It is also nice to have the extra room offered by two panniers in the winter to pack extra clothes/cold weather gear, just in case.
I started with panniers 4 yrs ago after I moved here from Victoria. I found having the weight down low over the back a great + in tire traction although I ended up a slower ride. No more sweaty back which is important in sub zero temps and less weight on my shoulders I found nice as well. I get achy as it is at times on a long ride and that extra weight up top wouldnt help much.
I still have my pack but I cant remember the last time I used it. I think I keep it as a memory because having used it for about 10 yrs it had become a part of me almost. lol.
Im definately sold on the panniers though. Its not for the aggressive fast rider I feel. More for the chill, smell the roses and enjoy life rider which is the stage of life I have entered lately.
Okay, I don't know the technical term but it's the little bike semi-roundabout that is supposed to get cyclists of NB 11th ST NW and onto the pathway island at 6th AVE SW.
Why did I ride it?
Well, I pass near it daily on my commute. It sits there, forsaken by cyclists and empty...almost begging for someone to use it. So...I thought...I'll give it a try and see how it works.
So, how did it work?
Okay, the flow onto it isn't too bad but I have to admit actually using it, given traffic, was pretty scary. See, I crossed 6th just as the light turned yellow. This would normally be fine but the big city bus behind me that did the same and then ran right up my tail definitely caused some frayed nerves. This was compounded by the bike lane squeezing me into the path of the fast approching bus. Fortunately the driver slowed down when I signalled my intent to make a right turn into the hook, though I couldn't help but wonder if he had any idea of why I was doing so given the fact that there are no markings on the road to indicate any type of crossing. The whole set-up, loss of bike lane, lack of markings, etc. just sort of leaves one hangin' in a potentially dangerous spot.
Would I use it again?
Unlikely. At least not in it's current configuration. I'd probably just merge across into the left turning lane and then aim straight for the island at the intersection. In fact, I don't know that I'd recommend anyone else use it either.
Could it work?
Absolutely, but the City would have to blast out part of the sidewalk to make a proper bike lane access and then actually paint and sign it so that motorists and cyclists understand what it is all about. It could actually be fairly effective in that case.
Normally when I approach 6th and the light is red, I use the cross walk to cross 11th. to the west side of 11th, and then when the light changes I use the west cross walk to cross 6th directly to the bike path. I do this as during the summer at least there is alway pedestrian and bike traffic using this route already.
When to use the J hook? When I approach 6th Ave and the light is green, it is much less stressful to proceed straight through the intersection and wait in the J hook than make the merge left. This is not true when the road is empty, but during rush hour the road is packed with cars, and you have to make 2 lane changes to the left, not just one. This is difficult to do during rush hour.
Yes the bike lane disappears on the north side of 6th, a future improvement would definitely be to widen the road there to allow the bike lane to go to the j hook, but for now you can either sqeeze in the gutter (which is what I do, although I don't do this anywhere else), or you can take the lane. It is still easier to take the left lane and proceed through the intersection to the hook than to take the lane and then look for another left lane change during rush hour.
Personally I think it's a nice bit of infrastructure that has stopped me from some kamikaze lane changing trying to make that left turn.
I actually probably would have taken the lane here had there not suddenly been that big bus that decided to run the yellow a number of seconds after I crossed the intersection. I was pretty much at the intersection when the light changed. The bus was really pushing it and consequently in a bit of a rush to cross 6th. I totally concur with not wanting to cross all the lanes of traffic into the merge lane so maybe the solution is to take the lane but well back of the intersection at 6th. Like I said, it could be great with a couple tweeks...or without a charging bus on one's tail!
Set out a few minutes later and when I do this I inevitably get stopped by the train on the south side pathway at the bottom of Shag golf course. I got there and only one other cyclist was waiting. Stood around for a few minutes for it to pass and in that time there were a total of 9 cyclists gathered. Nice to see the numbers still. I'd rather wait in that area with others around as it is pretty remote and dark at 6am, pretty eerie waiting all by myself - I find my eyes are constantly scanning around when alone.
Maybe it was the lack of an east wind but this morning's ride was really fast and felt "easy". A bit chilly but nothing to worry about. Clear sky with lots of stars.
I do miss the smell of a fireplace going as I ride by where that Robin's Donut place used to be at the eastern end of Point McKay. Usually get this smell in the fall so maybe it is a bit early although fall arrives a week from tomorrow - can you believe it?
Its that excitement riding in now with the cold and the leaves and the breathe that has you looking ahead to the snow. People hate change as a rule percentage wise and yet here is evidence that change is exciting and refreshing more than people realize subconciously. Deep down... its true they like the change I think. Love spring, fall and some of summer but the deep dark of winter I can do without. Here's hoping we get a gentle one.
One f the reasons I live here is because we do have distinct seasons. Dreary Fall would be my least favorite I suppose. Shorter days, cool mornings but the promise of ski season just around the corner and gorgeous clear, eye squinting winter days!
after tonight's road ride I think I need to add "bug-season" to my least favorite. it was so gross I thought I'd have to pick them outa my teeth after fishing them from my eyeballs and pulling them from the chesthair.
yech!! (the teeth part, not the chest hair part!! LOL)
If not for the bugs, then Fall riding would have to be my favorite.
got bugs in the eyes despite wearing proper riding glasses. Worst was when they bounced back and forth a few times between lens and eyeball until you blinked-em to death. Ditto for my riding buddies. At first we thought they were rain drops cos there were so many.
I love my big cargo backpack, I can use it on any of my bikes. (Cracks beer)
I love sneaking out of work early to do a quick lap around the reservoir in the sun. (Cracks beer)
I love that I was able to fix my bike light in 5 minutes and spent another 5 doing preventative maintenance on 3 others. (Cracks open bag of almonds to go with beers)
Good day!
Finally. I leave later in the morning, & usually get home later. Today, however, I went home earlier, & I saw many a cyclist! My rides have been "safer" the last few days than what they were over the weekend. I am tickaTboo. :)
I saw a LOT of bikes on my way home today, too. There were even four of us waiting for a light in Research Park on the way home, and I NEVER see anyone else biking there. Very cool to see so many people enjoying the mild day.
I woke up a little early this morning and couldn't go back to sleep. Soooo, I hopped on the bike (04:15ish) and rode all the way to work. I live South of Okotoks, and usually drive to Somerset, but decided today would be the day. It was already 11 degrees outside, and there was very little wind, so away I went. 2hrs and 30 minutes later, KAZAM I'm at work.
Felt awesome, I just hope the wind doesn't pick up on my way home. Turned out to be just over 60km.
I live nearbye to Shawnessy so curious the time on a bike from that location to Okotoks? I was originally guessing 2.5hrs but now I am reconsidering that guess.
The Aldersyde to Somerset was about 90mins Scott. I don't recomend it in the dark however, as I almost killed myself on some pee gravel on the shoulder coming down one of the hills at 55kmh. Grades weren't too bad, worst was 5% but they were LONG!!!!! I will certainly try it again. And yes, all the way DT.
The ride home on the highway Friday afternoon was a little "trafficy" for me. Don't know how you road guys ride major highways all the time. A little rough on the nerves.
While I would prefer to always ride down bucolic country lanes of fresh hard pavement with only cyclists on the road that happens infrequently. From there you have to deal with traffic and it is only a matter of how much. And you have to trust that you won't encounter someone who is out to do you harm. It is similar regardless of what you drive, you certainly hope that guy driving a truck doesn't attempt to cut you off.
Yes it can be nerve wracking, and more so in heavy traffic couples with limited shoulders.
But when the choice is "ride with traffic" or "do not ride" then "ride with traffic" wins.
Unless there's absolutely no option, I "never" ride the #1 or 1A. For some of the longer loops, some of these roads are obviously unavoidable for bits of the ride, but one can easily do very large loops around Calgary without too much in the way of "major" roads. Some use of Highway 22 and the 1A (and "somewhat major" roads like 567) is really unavoidable but these roads typically have pretty good shoulders (okay, 567 doesn't; avoid at all costs around "rush hour" which out there is like 6:30).
Slightly Chilly
Submitted by pinkrobe on
The nice lady on the radio said it was +9C, but it didn't feel as warm as when the sun was out last week. The ride home was better, but it felt very humid. No issues to speak of.
I rode home this afternoon in
Submitted by Tyrone on
I rode home this afternoon in short sleeves shirt, and I think it was a bit chilly for that. I did have a tail wind this morning, and I got myself a new kick ass light, so Fish Creek park wasn't as terrifying as usual. Saw lots of bikes out today despite the cooler temps.
poor MEC advise
Submitted by RichieRich on
saw a MEC bike employee suggesting to 2 newbie riders that the turtle lights (ie 2 small little LED's) are sufficient to be seen when sharing the road w/ vehicles and that the Planet Bike 1W and/or 2W are just overkill. Seriously?
bike light rant
Submitted by Dionysis on
I was off last week and so did not ride but during my rides early yesterday and today, I was appalled at the number of riders who don't even use a single light while riding in the dark. Shows to me that they don't have respect for their fellow pathway users, are too stupid or cheap to buy a set of lights ("I ride mainly on paths that have streets lights by them" or "I'll only be riding for a little while longer") and have no idea about city bylaws (we are required to have both a tail- and headlight). Those turtle lights are great for joggers but not for cycling, especially in areas that have no street lighting.
And while I am on a roll, if you do have a good LED headlight, please do NOT have it set to the flashing mode! Do you see cars driving with flashing headlights? The flashing is very distracting as you approach other people on the paths.
Unfortunately, I am pretty sure that the majority of these ninja/flasher riders don't frequent this forum so this is a waste of electrons. ;-)
******----Rant over----******
I was passed by a guy this
Submitted by Tyrone on
I was passed by a guy this morning who had no lights on his bike. And believe me it was DARK. There is NO way a vehicle would see him if they were coming up behind. I wear a tail light on my bike AND my helmet. I WANT cars to see me, so they can make adjustments in time and give me space to be safe. And X2 on the blinking headlight!
LED lights
Submitted by RichieRich on
To be fair lets clarify LED headlights... now there are the little 0.5W, 1W, and 2W LED headlights (ie Planet Bike for example). I'm ok w/ these on the paths whether steady beam or blinky.
Then there are the 100lumen and higher lumen set on blinky mode. I firmly believe in their on-street usage. My 8+ years of year-round cycling has reinforced multiple times that when on steady mode I do not get noticed/respected by vehicles as compared to blinky/flasher mode. I am including both front and rear lights. Does this makes me a part-time ninja/flash rider Dionysis?
As with everything there is a time and a place for everything. If you are exclusively (or 95%) a MUP user your requirements may be significantly different than a 40km/day commuter w/ 75% on street exposure. I'm in the latter category and do sometimes forget to turn down the lights when on the MUPS but this forum has made me more aware that I should. In any case, don't look at my lights, again, with your remaining good eye. ;)
good point
Submitted by Dionysis on
about the type of light that is flashing. I agree that those little turtle lights are no big deal, just the brighter models.
I know my rant seemed a bit harsh - must be in a bad mood having to go back to work after the nice week in B.C. 8-)
And not all strong blinking lights are bad as long as they are not directed too far ahead of you so that they end up shining in the eyes of oncoming cyclists. I personally have started to wear my light on my helmet simply because I can then direct the light to where I want to see. Of course, this also means I have to be very careful when looking at passing MUP users - don't want to blind them when I look at them!
Have you seen the latest thing for riding in the dark? They attach to your spokes and as you ride, it essentially makes your tires "glow". Great for people coming towards you at a right angle but not so useful head-on.
I've also seen mini projectors that flash a message on the pavement in front of you as you ride! Amazing what people can come up with.
Helmet blinky
Submitted by RichieRich on
All too often the rear bike/pannier/backpack mount lights get dirty, have low batteries, or are too low to really be noticed. It's been a pet-peeve of mine on the MUPs and road commuting.
Last year I started putting red MEC 2-LED Turtle blinky's on the back of my helmet, each aimed approx 45degrees apart but essentially facing backwards. I've actually had more than 1 motorist tell me (in a friendly way) that this was highly effective. I also put white blinkies on each front fork leg (facing forward, approx 45degrees apart) which hopefully improves side-exposure.
What gets me is people complain that's it's too expensive to put lights on your bike. True you can spend $100's, but you can easily get away with $30-40 for effective lighting and reflector tape from MEC. What does an injury or accident cost you by comparison? (bike repairs, clothing replacement, injury, time off work, pain, city transit costs/exposure or driving/parking, etc etc...).
Now to put my valve-stem lights on and you can all call me "Santa's Christmas Tree" as I zip along.
Red light on the front
Submitted by jondub on
Saw my first example of this for this season yesterday. Can anyone explain to me the logic for this? The fact that the guy was also intermittently riding on the wrong side of the path seemed likely to lead to an accident.
Mad trapper of rat river
Submitted by theorangejacket on
Back in the day, when he was being pursued by the NWMP or RCMP or whatever they were, he wore his snowsnows backwards in order throw off the scent. It seemed to work.
Perhaps your wrong side of the path/red lights on front guy was a descendant.
I win the prize for most obscure trivia and subject line
Different cost
Submitted by BCDon on
There is a different cost to "being seen" versus "being able to see" along dark unlit pathways. To be seen, a couple of white turtles facing forward (fork or on the bars spaced out a bit) and a couple on the back - I use the supports for my rear rack to mount them, are more than enough. But on a cold moonless morning before pre-dawn light on the unlit pathway you need a few hundred watts. I thought I could get away with the $50 or so MEC lights (2 watts or so) but nearly took out an early morning walker, just seeing him at the last second and veering around him.
Seeing as I can't rely on others to be seen, I have to carry enough light to see far enough so I don't overdrive and assume there is someone dressed in flat black walking in front of me in the same direction, around the blind corner.
Light up the Night!
MEC
Submitted by mikewarren on
...has gone off the cliff, employee-wise. It used to be that you could ask 1 or 2 employees and find someone who'd used whatever it is that you're looking at. Now, you're lucky to find someone who can remember what the "training" told them to say about the sleeping bag or whatever. They seem to have scared away many of the "actual" outdoor folks, sadly.
Those turtle lights are stupid, throw-away crap. They're probably great to sit on a road bike that you "never" take out a night "just in case" or as a backup, but please get a Planet Bike superflash or similar (ideally, two) if you're going to head out on the road at night "on purpose".
I do find that the mounts sheer off somewhat easily (I've lost about 4 lights). Although I guess I'm a little hard on these things :)
Sheering
Submitted by theorangejacket on
Yeah I've lost a few lights like that as well. I'm kinda rough on my bike too. I have a couple of "blinkies" permanently attached to my frame in case I've forgotten my main lights (or they got sheered off lol) or if I'm out later than I thought I'd be (this time of year and later seems to be an issue)
Good lights are a must for me, since I'm basically a year round rider and for about 4 months of that it's in pitch black. Love that creepy feeling though.
Anyway, I wish night time joggers would wear lights. I've had some near mishaps
Panniers or Backpacks?
Submitted by RichieRich on
Been riding for years and years with great commuter backpacks. This week I figured what-the-heck may as well try some Panniers. Had 3 rides and certainly are different. What's your experiences and why?
I've already come to the following conclusions:
In the heat panniers keep you cooler
In the cool backpack keeps you warmer
How do they affect your bike handling in the winter?
front panniers
Submitted by mikewarren on
If you're going to have just one or two panniers, try them on the front!
I haven't used this a lot in the winter (I've been using a tiny backpack mostly; no pannier mounts on the bike I use in the winter) but they sure make you corner better in the summer so I imagine they'd be great in the winter.
Not sure about that...
Submitted by mercator on
I like my front panniers, although I only use them for commuting when I have a lot of stuff to transport. But I don't think they would be a real help in the winter. I find I need to un-weight my front wheel quite frequently when winter riding, whether it is to get out of a rut or when hitting a snow drift. And on those days when I have to get off and push through 10" of snow, up hill, having the weight on the back just seems to make more sense.
But to the bigger question: panniers >>> backpacks
I've always felt
Submitted by BCDon on
More constricted with a back pack and with a heavy one y ou CG starts to shift too high. Plus I don't like sweaty back syndrome which a back pack quickly causes. I ride with a single pannier on the back (left side) and if riding a bike set u p for front panniers I'll pu it in the front left. The panniers generally are not very heavy in any case.
I love my panniers
Submitted by DarrenB on
I love my panniers, especially in the heat of the summer (no sweaty back). I REALLY like them in the snow -- that extra weight gets shifted over your rear tire for extra traction (it makes a substantive difference). It is also nice to have the extra room offered by two panniers in the winter to pack extra clothes/cold weather gear, just in case.
Ditto
Submitted by Scott on
I started with panniers 4 yrs ago after I moved here from Victoria. I found having the weight down low over the back a great + in tire traction although I ended up a slower ride. No more sweaty back which is important in sub zero temps and less weight on my shoulders I found nice as well. I get achy as it is at times on a long ride and that extra weight up top wouldnt help much.
I still have my pack but I cant remember the last time I used it. I think I keep it as a memory because having used it for about 10 yrs it had become a part of me almost. lol.
Im definately sold on the panniers though. Its not for the aggressive fast rider I feel. More for the chill, smell the roses and enjoy life rider which is the stage of life I have entered lately.
I also just switched to
Submitted by Tyrone on
I also just switched to paniers. A few things I noticed.
1. I carry more crap now (cause I can)
2. My back doesn't sweat anymore
3. I don't have those weird marks on my shoulders when I get to work
I really like using them.
panniers in winter
Submitted by habernac on
if you ride on any kind of snow, your bike will sink noticeably more than if you carried the load on your back.
Panniers feedback = great
Submitted by RichieRich on
thanks all ya'll for your feedback on the rear panniers. Methinks I'll be making the transition after ~10 sweaty-backed commuting years.
Deuter Air
Submitted by Fuzz on
I've got a Deuter Air backpack that has rails that keeps it away from your back and I LOVE it. Works so well. No more sweaty back.
Rode the Hook
Submitted by bclark on
Okay, I don't know the technical term but it's the little bike semi-roundabout that is supposed to get cyclists of NB 11th ST NW and onto the pathway island at 6th AVE SW.
Why did I ride it?
Well, I pass near it daily on my commute. It sits there, forsaken by cyclists and empty...almost begging for someone to use it. So...I thought...I'll give it a try and see how it works.
So, how did it work?
Okay, the flow onto it isn't too bad but I have to admit actually using it, given traffic, was pretty scary. See, I crossed 6th just as the light turned yellow. This would normally be fine but the big city bus behind me that did the same and then ran right up my tail definitely caused some frayed nerves. This was compounded by the bike lane squeezing me into the path of the fast approching bus. Fortunately the driver slowed down when I signalled my intent to make a right turn into the hook, though I couldn't help but wonder if he had any idea of why I was doing so given the fact that there are no markings on the road to indicate any type of crossing. The whole set-up, loss of bike lane, lack of markings, etc. just sort of leaves one hangin' in a potentially dangerous spot.
Would I use it again?
Unlikely. At least not in it's current configuration. I'd probably just merge across into the left turning lane and then aim straight for the island at the intersection. In fact, I don't know that I'd recommend anyone else use it either.
Could it work?
Absolutely, but the City would have to blast out part of the sidewalk to make a proper bike lane access and then actually paint and sign it so that motorists and cyclists understand what it is all about. It could actually be fairly effective in that case.
J hook is nice
Submitted by winterrider on
I use this sometimes depending on traffic.
Normally when I approach 6th and the light is red, I use the cross walk to cross 11th. to the west side of 11th, and then when the light changes I use the west cross walk to cross 6th directly to the bike path. I do this as during the summer at least there is alway pedestrian and bike traffic using this route already.
When to use the J hook? When I approach 6th Ave and the light is green, it is much less stressful to proceed straight through the intersection and wait in the J hook than make the merge left. This is not true when the road is empty, but during rush hour the road is packed with cars, and you have to make 2 lane changes to the left, not just one. This is difficult to do during rush hour.
Yes the bike lane disappears on the north side of 6th, a future improvement would definitely be to widen the road there to allow the bike lane to go to the j hook, but for now you can either sqeeze in the gutter (which is what I do, although I don't do this anywhere else), or you can take the lane. It is still easier to take the left lane and proceed through the intersection to the hook than to take the lane and then look for another left lane change during rush hour.
Personally I think it's a nice bit of infrastructure that has stopped me from some kamikaze lane changing trying to make that left turn.
Taking the lane
Submitted by bclark on
I actually probably would have taken the lane here had there not suddenly been that big bus that decided to run the yellow a number of seconds after I crossed the intersection. I was pretty much at the intersection when the light changed. The bus was really pushing it and consequently in a bit of a rush to cross 6th. I totally concur with not wanting to cross all the lanes of traffic into the merge lane so maybe the solution is to take the lane but well back of the intersection at 6th. Like I said, it could be great with a couple tweeks...or without a charging bus on one's tail!
The morning train
Submitted by sherryrunswest on
Set out a few minutes later and when I do this I inevitably get stopped by the train on the south side pathway at the bottom of Shag golf course. I got there and only one other cyclist was waiting. Stood around for a few minutes for it to pass and in that time there were a total of 9 cyclists gathered. Nice to see the numbers still. I'd rather wait in that area with others around as it is pretty remote and dark at 6am, pretty eerie waiting all by myself - I find my eyes are constantly scanning around when alone.
what a great morning
Submitted by Dionysis on
Maybe it was the lack of an east wind but this morning's ride was really fast and felt "easy". A bit chilly but nothing to worry about. Clear sky with lots of stars.
I do miss the smell of a fireplace going as I ride by where that Robin's Donut place used to be at the eastern end of Point McKay. Usually get this smell in the fall so maybe it is a bit early although fall arrives a week from tomorrow - can you believe it?
I know!!!
Submitted by theorangejacket on
Loving this weather, I like a tiny bit of chill in the morning!
The excitement!!
Submitted by Scott on
Its that excitement riding in now with the cold and the leaves and the breathe that has you looking ahead to the snow. People hate change as a rule percentage wise and yet here is evidence that change is exciting and refreshing more than people realize subconciously. Deep down... its true they like the change I think. Love spring, fall and some of summer but the deep dark of winter I can do without. Here's hoping we get a gentle one.
-George Santayana??
Submitted by theorangejacket on
To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state than to be hopelessly in love with spring.
Seasons
Submitted by BCDon on
One f the reasons I live here is because we do have distinct seasons. Dreary Fall would be my least favorite I suppose. Shorter days, cool mornings but the promise of ski season just around the corner and gorgeous clear, eye squinting winter days!
Bug season
Submitted by RichieRich on
after tonight's road ride I think I need to add "bug-season" to my least favorite. it was so gross I thought I'd have to pick them outa my teeth after fishing them from my eyeballs and pulling them from the chesthair.
yech!! (the teeth part, not the chest hair part!! LOL)
If not for the bugs, then Fall riding would have to be my favorite.
I ALWAYS wear some form of
Submitted by Tyrone on
I ALWAYS wear some form of glasses this time of year, so I don't get em in my eyes. Te good news is your not as hungry when you get home.
got me eye on you
Submitted by RichieRich on
got bugs in the eyes despite wearing proper riding glasses. Worst was when they bounced back and forth a few times between lens and eyeball until you blinked-em to death. Ditto for my riding buddies. At first we thought they were rain drops cos there were so many.
Blinked em To Death.....
Submitted by iLuvGR33N on
Um sorta, how about when you can feel them crawl in a lil deeper...mass suicide in my eyes!
Mmmmm
Submitted by BCDon on
Bug breath!
celebrating
Submitted by pinkrobe on
I love my big cargo backpack, I can use it on any of my bikes. (Cracks beer)
I love sneaking out of work early to do a quick lap around the reservoir in the sun. (Cracks beer)
I love that I was able to fix my bike light in 5 minutes and spent another 5 doing preventative maintenance on 3 others. (Cracks open bag of almonds to go with beers)
Good day!
I see Bikes
Submitted by iLuvGR33N on
Finally. I leave later in the morning, & usually get home later. Today, however, I went home earlier, & I saw many a cyclist! My rides have been "safer" the last few days than what they were over the weekend. I am tickaTboo. :)
Me too
Submitted by DarrenB on
I saw a LOT of bikes on my way home today, too. There were even four of us waiting for a light in Research Park on the way home, and I NEVER see anyone else biking there. Very cool to see so many people enjoying the mild day.
Strange
Submitted by seanyyc on
Never? Must be a timing thing. There are hordes of folks in the Research Park area that ride in to work.
Sorry
Submitted by DarrenB on
I meant that one little intersection in Research Park. I have never encountered cyclists there before yesterday, let alone four of us!
Long Commute this morning
Submitted by Tyrone on
I woke up a little early this morning and couldn't go back to sleep. Soooo, I hopped on the bike (04:15ish) and rode all the way to work. I live South of Okotoks, and usually drive to Somerset, but decided today would be the day. It was already 11 degrees outside, and there was very little wind, so away I went. 2hrs and 30 minutes later, KAZAM I'm at work.
Felt awesome, I just hope the wind doesn't pick up on my way home. Turned out to be just over 60km.
You rode to downtown?
Submitted by Scott on
I live nearbye to Shawnessy so curious the time on a bike from that location to Okotoks? I was originally guessing 2.5hrs but now I am reconsidering that guess.
Good for you on such an ambitious ride. Cudo's
The Aldersyde to Somerset was
Submitted by Tyrone on
The Aldersyde to Somerset was about 90mins Scott. I don't recomend it in the dark however, as I almost killed myself on some pee gravel on the shoulder coming down one of the hills at 55kmh. Grades weren't too bad, worst was 5% but they were LONG!!!!! I will certainly try it again. And yes, all the way DT.
This has me thinking...
Submitted by Scott on
This has me thinking that I could probably get from Sommerset to Bragg Creek in under 3 hours. Anybody want to confirm or correct this guess?
Thanks Tyrone.
Less
Submitted by ryker on
Under two hours if you're riding a road bike.
Wont be.
Submitted by Scott on
Loaded up (camping) Rigid city bike (mountain bike style) with slicks.
Its changed a bit but still the same bike.
I think your hand will be way
Submitted by 2wheeler on
I think your hands will be way too warm!
hahaha...
Submitted by Scott on
Thats was my winter setup last year which it will be again one day all too soon. I'll take a pic of it soon for comparison just for the helluvit. :)
Wicked
Submitted by iLuvGR33N on
I want built in mitts too! =)
The ride home on the highway
Submitted by Tyrone on
The ride home on the highway Friday afternoon was a little "trafficy" for me. Don't know how you road guys ride major highways all the time. A little rough on the nerves.
Get used to it.
Submitted by BCDon on
While I would prefer to always ride down bucolic country lanes of fresh hard pavement with only cyclists on the road that happens infrequently. From there you have to deal with traffic and it is only a matter of how much. And you have to trust that you won't encounter someone who is out to do you harm. It is similar regardless of what you drive, you certainly hope that guy driving a truck doesn't attempt to cut you off.
Yes it can be nerve wracking, and more so in heavy traffic couples with limited shoulders.
But when the choice is "ride with traffic" or "do not ride" then "ride with traffic" wins.
I don't
Submitted by mikewarren on
Unless there's absolutely no option, I "never" ride the #1 or 1A. For some of the longer loops, some of these roads are obviously unavoidable for bits of the ride, but one can easily do very large loops around Calgary without too much in the way of "major" roads. Some use of Highway 22 and the 1A (and "somewhat major" roads like 567) is really unavoidable but these roads typically have pretty good shoulders (okay, 567 doesn't; avoid at all costs around "rush hour" which out there is like 6:30).