In the midst of COVID-19 and self-distancing (which is only slightly bothersome to someone who happens to be a closet hermit) the weather has warmed and we are officially on our bicycles – outside. Yahoo!

It struck me on this morning’s pre-breakfast tour of the City pathways, that this activity really does bring a smile to my face.  There is something about moving, self-propelled through space with rubber on the road and wind blowing through my helmet that ignites a kind of thrill that starts deep in my soul.

I’ve ridden my bike pretty much all my life.  I taught myself to ride two wheels on my brother’s too-large bike, using the fence in our backyard to keep me upright.  Bleeding knuckles and all.

I rode to the playground pre-school, to school through Elementary, Jr. High and High School.   I rode to University and to work.  Now I meet clients using my bike as often as I can.  I offer cycling clinics for women, cycling tours for others and have toured with my partner – in many cool places in the world.  There is just something special about riding a bicycle.

“She who succeeds in gaining mastery of the bicycle gains mastery of life.” 

Frances E Willard, 1895

One thing that I remember about riding as a child is that every spring my mom made sure that I was enrolled in Pedal Pushers.  Some of you might remember this program.  It’s yesteryear’s Pedal Headz.  We learned skills and safety on our bikes by riding on the school grounds which translated to the road so that we were confident and safe in making our way from home to wherever we intended to ride. It was a great reminder each year for us to take to the roads.  This experience and desire to help women gain mastery on their bicycles – carried over to my developing Princess Pedal Cycling Clinics.

With the current requirement for physical distancing – more bikes are hitting the road.  Bike shops are going crazy with sales and service.  With this, bike safety, knowledge and skills are something that will be a bit of a concern for all riders, vehicle drivers and pedestrians.  New riders will not necessarily be street and pathway savvy – so for the rest of us, be patient, use good manners and judgement while navigating your own bicycle and perhaps the skills and knowledge will rub off.

A few things to consider when you’re riding:

• Signal your turns, stops and if you’re slowing.
• Stop at stop signs and red lights, just as you would if you were in a car.
• Ring your bell to let others know you’re passing on pathways and roadways.  This also works well around blind corners to let others know you’re there.
• Ride single file.
• Obey speed limits.
• Wear a helmet (and wear it properly, chin strap fairly snug).

Be a good cycling citizen.  Enjoy the fresh air and freedom that cycling brings.  Let others enjoy too and be safe out there.  RideSplendidly…

LiveSplendidly!