It's all about OUR BUTTS. I mean... saving them.

When I ride, I carry a little nagging worry that some motorist is not paying attention to my road position, or worse, is paying too much attention because they have it out for cyclists. As cyclists, we need to take the initiative to start mending the "us or them" mentality between motorists and cyclists. Cars are bigger than us, so we need THEM to WANT TO take care of us.

We definitely need to SHARE THE ROAD, but only roads where this is possible. I mean, some roads are not compatible for cars and bikes to use them at the same time. As responsible cyclists, we should try to pick compatible roads, whenever possible -- not the ones that cause tension between drivers and cyclists!

We don't need the same rights as motor vehicles, we need special rights. Notably, the right to safe use of a small piece of the road and the right not to be harassed or threatened. But with rights come responsibilities. It's our responsibility not to unnecessarily delay motorists. Riding an "incompatible road" at the wrong time of the day is not smart, probably not fun, and ruins cycling's reputation.

Now, about riding 2 (or more) abreast in an "incompatible" area. Riding 2-abreast might be lawful in many cases, but is it a right we should claim inside the city? When motorists see cyclists monopolizing an entire lane, reducing traffic flow by 33 to 100% (depending on the number of lanes available), do you think any of them say to themselves "That's a great sport -- colorful clothing - and a great way to socialize". No, they see inconsiderate people out having fun at their expense.

Ride POLITE
• Pick roads compatible with cars and bikes' simultaneous use
• Don't ride 2-abreast when it's not compatible with maximizing traffic flow
• Ride as far right "as practicable" (yes, we all understand avoiding the "door zone" and curb debris)
Ride RIGHT
• Follow the laws that pertain to us -- espcially those that make for good PR with cars (stop signs!)
• Advocate for "3' Safe Passing" by cars (but cyclists have to do their part also!)
• Advocate for "Treat Stops as Yield" laws. When motorists understand this, it won't bother them to see it.
• Help us promote Polite and Right. It would be great if motorists started to understand we're for compatible use by both!