Since the beginning of summer, I have seen a growing number of cyclists commuting to work. It’s not as apparent in the morning, but after work, they’re everywhere! 5:00 PM seems to be the universal quitting time. One thing we’ve done to make the commute more enjoyable and safer, is to start a commuter convoy.
Bicycle Commuter Convoy on Roop Street
Our convoy is still pretty small at this time, with only 3 or 4 strong, but it makes a big difference. Not only do we get to talk along the way, but there is safety in numbers. Multiple cyclists riding together get more respect on the road. Not only is the pack more visible, but I think people are less apt to mess with a group of the people when the odds are not in their favor.
Not only is high visibility safer, but the message that cycling is fun is better advertised to the masses. If people see a group doing it, then maybe they get the idea in their head that they should give it a try. One of my fun activities on the way home is to count how many cars we pass on Roop Street. Roop Street is one of the main streets for getting around town, and is always backed up during rush hour. In just a short half mile stretch, I once counted over 30 cars passed!
We leave the capital grounds around 5 PM and head north if you’d like to join us. If you’re in another part of the city, and would like help connecting with other bicycle commuters, let me know (email address is on the contact page above)!
Elsewhere on the web…
Do you read Urban Velo? The current issue has some fantastic information for bicycle commuters that I’d like to point out. Page 30 has an article entitled STREET SMARTS – SURVIVAL SKILLS FROM A BICYCLE MESSENGER. Issue #9 is now available for download over on the Urban Velo Blog HERE.
When I was skimming the online magazine to get to the Street Smarts article, I came across a familiar face. Check out Page 22 of Urban Velo, and you’ll see Carson City’s Gabe Gonzalez! Gabe is frequently seen on his fixie at the local bicycle events, and it’s not uncommon to see him hanging out at the Bicycle Authority shooting the breeze with the rest of the guys. Go check out the interview with Gabe and see why he likes riding in the city.