Editor:
I wanted to reply to Jim Krug’s letter about “narcissistic” cyclists in Idyllwild. I think a better adjective would have been “inconsiderate” cyclists.
I have been part of the cycling scene in Idyllwild since 1992. Most of the cyclists here in Idyllwild are mountain bikers, not “spandex” clad road riders. Highways 243 and 74 have always been dicey for road cyclists due to the non-existent and narrow shoulders on both highways.
The majority of road cyclists on the weekends are not locals, but riders from Hemet, Banning and the desert areas who like riding up 243 and 74 for training rides. Sure, there are locals who ride bicycles on 243 and 74, but the majority of us are off road on the trails.
I understand the frustration he is referring to because sometimes cyclists try to take over the entire lane.
I don’t support licensing bicycles, because almost all of us who ride bikes also own a motor vehicle, so we are paying taxes for the roads every time we buy fuel. I ride both off and on road, so I do my best to stay to the right when I’m cycling on the road and let vehicles pass by safely.
Unfortunately, the riders who frustrate Jim will never read his letter to the editor in the Town Crier.
Bicycles are subject to the same rules that govern motor vehicles. We do have a right to be on the road. Common sense should always be taken into consideration when it comes to laws. There is a 3-foot law, but a motorist should not unsafely cross the double-yellow line which endangers the driver, the oncoming vehicle and the cyclist he is trying to pass.
Most experienced road riders understand lane position, and do their best to stay to the right to let vehicles pass. It’s often reckless and unsophisticated riders who make it bad for all of us.
Most bicycling clubs offer classes on safe riding for both members and non-members. Unfortunately, there is an adversarial relationship between vehicles and bicycles on the roads. I really wish we could co-exist better and truly “share the road.”
Alan Vester
Yorba Linda/Idyllwild
