Expressing a negative opinion about cyclists in the Sea to Sky is like walking into a biker bar and declaring that “nobody here can throw a punch!”
There’s going to be trouble – of that, there is no doubt.
But here goes, anyway.
Some road cyclists around Squamish need to learn the rules of the road. There. I said it. Punch away.
I’m only saying this because of several encounters I’ve had lately. Now, don’t get me wrong. I try to share the road with all manner of folks in town – joggers, cyclists, little critters that dart out into the road unexpectedly… everyone! It’s the spirit of Sea to Sky to share the roads and trails with the full range of users, and I do truly try to respect that lifestyle ethic.
If I see a group of runners kind of bunched together and maybe spilling out onto Government Road as they trot along, I’ll slow down, give them ample space, and only pass the group if it is totally safe.
The same with road cyclists. As they’re considered vehicles, and rightly prefer to ride on asphalt and not the gravel side of the road, I don’t gripe or ride up their butts when they’re meandering along the road. No, I slow down, give them plenty of space, and – if it’s safe – go around when appropriate. They deserve to be enjoying the road like everyone else… although, to be honest, with all the trails around I still can’t understand someone who prefers being on a road with cars. To each his own. But I digress.
So, you can understand why I do get a bit annoyed when a small minority of cyclists refuse to follow the rules of the road, or are just downright rude. Here’s an example: I’m driving down the road, and there are three cyclists riding side-by-side, fully blocking a major roadway. I slow. I wait. Eventually I swerve around them to get by, and two of the three guys flip me the bird!
Or how about the cyclists who weave dangerously in and out of traffic to get where they need to go, regardless of whether it’s legal or not. It seems for this minority, the road rules only apply when it suits their need, or to complain about cars.
Look, everyone – cars, trucks, bikes, mopeds – everyone needs to follow the same rules, otherwise it’s anarchy, or at least major frustration (and at worst – a serious accident!). If you cycle in the Sea to Sky, be aware of your responsibilities, and if you are in a car, give road riders some respect, as well. There is plenty of room for all of us out there.
