Bicycles can change the world, reduce pollution and vehicular traffic, get us all back into great physical shape and reduce our stress. Fact is, not all of us can or want to ride bikes. But there are some people who have died doing it – precisely because most American cities are geared for motorized traffic. Bikes ridden for recreation and as a mode of transportation, unfortunately, sometimes get in the way. And sometimes riders pay the ultimate price with their lives.
A few weeks ago, I stumbled across this site, which is for bicycle rides conducted in this country and across the world to honor bicyclists who have been killed while riding. The first event was conducted in 2003 in Dallas. There will be a ride in Fort Worth, for which I've requested information to participate. Other locations are listed on the site. All of them are free, and are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 17. The object is to ride in silence and at a slow pace, a show of solidarity and support and a time for pedaling and reflection.
I hope you will join me by participating in a ride near you. Or, on the next sunny day, dust off your bike (or rent or borrow someone else's) and take a slow ride around the block, or maybe a couple of blocks. Other than possible sorebuttness, I bet you'll have a good time. And it might even change your life for the better.
Hey, that's good stuff. I'm 77 and need of exercise like everyone else. I have found a quiet suburban street with no traffic and a modest incline and find that some decent sprinting meets my needs for exercise and also my love for outdoor biking. I will keep a centered silence for the cause you mention.. and feel that I am with you all the way.
Citrus in Phoenix
We get lots of bikers here in Clear Lake. Especially on Sunday mornings. They take over the roads.