“In the past, almost everybody travelled on the left side of the road because that was the most sensible option for feudal, violent societies. Since most people are right-handed, swordsmen preferred to keep to the left in order to have their right arm nearer to an opponent and their scabbard further from him. Moreover, it reduced the chance of the scabbard (worn on the left) hitting other people.”

- World Standards, users.telenet.be

Math and I got out for a nice ride on the rail trail today, first ride of the year.  The temperature is getting high enough, so its time for us to start our bike commute routine.

The rail trail was mostly clear with only a few packets of snow, and one stretch that had to be walked.  The rail trail was full of clueless pedestrians, either trail newbies or forgetful veterans.  Individuals or groups on the wrong side or taking up the entire width of the trail.  Dogs with long leashes, kids learning to ride without helmets, etc.  My favorite was when I was coming up on a group, so from a fair distance I rung my bell a few times.  That had no effect, as I approached I rang it a few more times.  When I was finally very close, I called out, “coming up behind you.”  Then again, “coming up behind you.”  Then, “behind you, excuse me.”  Then, “HEY, please move over.”  The group turned around, surprised, and kind of moved over in this disorganized surprised way, and one person even said something like, “I thought I heard a bell, but I just ignored it.”

So, have a happy spring everybody, and remember to:

• Wear a helmet when biking or skating.
• Stay to the right except to pass.
• Alert others when passing and approaching.
• Be responsible for your children and pets (keep your kids on the right, pick up your dog’s poo)
• Be considerate to other trail users, trail maintainers (don’t litter) and surrounding communities (keep noise to a minimum).

Happy biking!