Hi everyone,
I'm brand new to this forum, and relatively new to commuter cycling in Calgary as of this spring.
Since then, I've taken note of two things:
- The bike path system is moderately to highly undeveloped. With the exception of the Bow Trail, other paths seem to be a secondary thought; and
- Motorists and cyclists together seem unaware of the rules applicable to each (and I must admit, sometimes I'm unsure).
Does anyone share these observations? What can we do about it?
Comments
Welcome! Yes, I think those
Submitted by Richard Z on
Welcome! Yes, I think those observations are widely shared.
(You'll get more replies if posting in the forumsthemselves rather than in your blog, btw.)
Great questions.
Submitted by tlyyc on
I agree with your comments and concerns. I started commuting by bike a couple of years ago, thanks to a "thoughtful" Father's day gift from my family. It was typically for only 2-3 days a week during the summer, so I was almost always on the path system (which worked very well for my ride at the time). As I got stronger and more confident, I have moved to more road use, and now use a combination of pathways, bike lanes, and road riding.
I have seen mistakes and poor judgment by motorists, cyclists (including me I'm afraid), joggers, walkers, and people with pets. That being said, I have also seen some very courteous and logical actions. Thank you to those people!
I never would have made the effort to learn the rules (both legal and logical) if it were not for forums and websites such as this. I greatly appreciate the input by all users of this site, both cyclists and non-cyclists. BikeCalgary.org does a great job of raising awareness, providing training options, and opening a forum for discussion. Right now, I feel that is the best we can do as concerned cyclists and members of our communities.