Getting Started

One of the reasons I’ve wanted to start a women’s group ride was that so many of us aren’t exactly excited to be out riding with traffic. It’s scary sometimes, getting so close to moving cars (or roving rooms as I like to say sometimes) I’ve gotten hit before, and plenty of times just narrowly avoided being run over. There are so many obstacles, that first we must feel comfortable and confidant in ourself on our bikes. We need to signal our turns, hold the line, and be predictable. (the latter isn’t always so easy...) As well as those things, we must be constantly aware of our surroundings, and those around us. A lot of cars aren’t paying any attention, and even if we were dressed in bright orange and on fire, they still could run right over us without noticing.

Be smart: have lights on your bike at night. Wear a helmet. I know, I know helmets aren’t fashionable, they ruin certain hairstyles, and they look pretty awful. But as a girl that grew up remembering her father getting hit by a car when she was 5 and coming back from getting shots... I always wear my helmet, and I really try and avoid shots. For a year or so in college I rebelled, but in the last 2 years I have smashed THREE helmets. (That 3rd one just the other night.. I currently am wearing a black eye and a couple chipped teeth. Cycling can be dangerous, you have to know that) Yeah, I might be known for drinking my fair share, and making poor decisions, but I wouldn’t be around if it weren’t for those helmets. And while buying new helmets can be expensive... it’s cheaper than hospital bills. I’ll let you know how the dentist goes...

Know your bike. Go ahead, look a little closer, get down on your haunches and examine that lovely machine. Make sure those wheels are on nice and tight, that your brakes are working properly, that there’s plenty of air in the tires. Maybe you don’t really know what happens when you change gears? Or what the hell is a derrailleur? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I can be your personal mechanic, and try and help you learn how to fix everything yourself, if you’d like. Be patient, take a deep breath, and go for it. It’ll be okay, really.

Be aggressive. I know you’ve got it in you. Those cars need to respect you, but you need to anticipate them too. Ride like they can’t see you, don’t assume ANYTHING besides the fact that eventually even the most careful rider will get hit, sooner or later. If you accept this, it will add years to your safe-bike-riding life. Like I said, you could be on fire and still some motorists won’t take notice. Make eye contact with drivers, especially at intersections when you are turning. Get as far to the left when making left turns, and signal. Again, be aware of your surroundings.

The more you ride your bike, the more confidant you become, but remember to not get cocky. I need to take this to heart, because I know I am a really good cyclist, but I'm still fully capable of making rookie mistakes. Contact me with any questions!