Cyclists Who Give Us a Bad Name

This morning, I relented and allowed my circadian rhythm to dictate my time to awake. I was scheduled to meet a rag-tag team of riders at 7.00am. I would then follow the lead for a 60-90K ride. After much preamble and preparation, I found myself at the start-line after 9.30am. I did a 15K loop around the Changi International Airport before I bumped into the trio of enthusiastic riders comprising Clifford, Tee and Matthew. I caught up with them, had a mild chat, mostly being teased by Clifford (mostly because he and Matthew were riding on their spanking new Specialised Transition frame and aero-helmets: very Macca-esque!). We parted ways shortly as the three of them were headed for some emergency breakfast after their near, century-ride.

I continued for another two loops; tough going in because of the strong headwind, and easier on the return leg because of the noticeable tailwind. At the end of my second loop, I emerged damp after a few rogue rain clouds, and merged into a pack of roadies (including furious-pedaling mountain-bikers). This large and motley pack of about 25-30 riders, traveling at moderate pace, was enjoying the sail effect afforded by a tailwind.

One rider – playing shepherd from the back - decided that he would move from the rear, of the left-most lane, to grab a pinch of the right lane. The original, one self-designated, lane for riding became a dictatorial domination of two lanes. I could have overtaken the whole pack if I accelerated for a short distance, but I intuitively chose not to. A fast approaching convertible, realizing how futile it was to patiently and optimistically wait for the relinquishing of this outer lane, decided to go around the pack. This meant that he had to borrow a piece of the opposite lane across the road. In effect, it was not a smart move of the devil-may-care antics of these roadies.

I was shocked by their irresponsible behavior, which demonstrated little regard for motorists and fellow riders. Earlier this week, a lorry hit two military officers; one cyclist died, and another suffered serious injuries; Matthew knew the deceased rider and so did Robson Phan (who I raced the Annual Beer Run with). The irony was, they were both wearing jerseys that promoted safe cycling. It was a sad and tragic start to this year; seems like the verdict is out for cyclist-motorist harmony. This afternoon, my friend, Hui Koon blogged about how errant motorists irk him.

Leaders need to learn how to be diligent, discerning and decisive (proposed by Gary Yardley & Jan Kelly); certainly, as cyclists on the road we have to exercise these options instead of succumbing to group pressure and behaving inappropriately. Do the right thing! Exercise caution, patience, alertness, concentration and carefulness. I never trust the motorist to give me way – I hope that he/she does – yet, I will make way for their safe passage, in return of my safer return. After being knocked down by a taxi last February, I have become paranoid about oncoming traffic behind me. It is just as well, for I am mindful still that I am sharing/borrowing the road for my recreational needs.

Riders – do share the roads, and please spare yourself from careless and silly behaviors. Be proactive. Take the initiative. Be smart. Be a leader of your own journey.