Listen now by clicking here: [audio:http://traffic.libsyn.com/spokesmen/The_Spokesmen_109.mp3]
Topics Included:
- Eurobike 2014 Wrap-up
- Interbike 2014 Wrap-up
- Cross Vegas Controversy
- Colombian IDRD-Bogota Humana-San Mateo-Solgar Women’s Team Kit (BBC Story)
- Cyclist in Kentucky Arrested for Riding Her Bike on Road (video)
- California’s 3-foot Law and the Backlash
- Changing Laws Regarding Cyclist Deaths
- Cycling with a Camera
- Tips
How to Listen:
I have a totally different experience commuting in San Diego than does Tim. Maybe my fellow commuters are more use to bicycles and resigned to the frequent rush-hour congestion. Most people, before and especially after the 3-foot law took effect, watch out for me on my bicycle. Some seem to now be confused about how much space they should give, and pass about 6 feet away! There are still the few people who crowd the bike lane when they stop, and those who block the lane even when they have no hope of getting to the intersection to make a right turn. Not even my blinding flashing headlight is enough to keep some from entering the lane as I approach. But most of this is no more than annoying. My perception of my biggest threat to life and limb is still the distracted driver.
Good show. I’m a little surprised there was little talk about pro racing. (Contador winning the Vuelta, World Championships, etc…) And even more surprised there was no mention of Jens Voigt’s hour record. Come on, give the guy some love! His retirement, and hour record, was the biggest news in the pro peloton this August/September.
I do appreciate the discussion of women’s pro cycling. They are often more exciting to watch than the men. They deserve much more respectable prize money, and media coverage.
I have back and front “witness” cameras on my commuter. They’re lower-cost action cameras probably intended more for teenagers, but came with lots of attachment accessories and record at 720p/30, good enough to read license plate numbers. The only drawback is that they’re mostly useless at night. As Carlton discussed, they did change my riding habits, but for the better. I now fully stop and plant a foot so the back camera unambiguously records a non-moving tire. I’ve been in collisions, and I always want to have proof I followed the law and was 100% not at fault. Whenever I end up in a “discussion” with an unruly driver, I point out the cameras to make sure everyone has the opportunity to demonstrate their best behavior. I think that a head-mounted POV camera is also important, and I’ve experimented with one mounted on sunglasses. That one wasn’t aimed correctly for cycling, though. I might try a helmet-mounted bullet camera when I find one that’s a good value.
Like you, Dan, I’ve been riding with a “witness” camera mounted to my handlebars for all of 2014. I have also found that my riding and road courtesy have improved as a result. I do not want anyone to accuse me of having somehow contributed to a future accident or incident.
Today I received a Fly6 for test. From what I have seen so far, I am really going to like this unit. I like the idea of a continuously looping video, the thought of having both front and rear cameras, and the accident protection tech built-in.
Should I ever be involved in any kind of incident or discussion in the future, I will definitely point out the fact that I have cameras rolling.
Finally, as for putting a foot down at stop signs, this is an excellent idea and something I also make sure to do. There is a 4-way stop near my house and I am constantly amazed at how few cars and cyclists come to full and complete stops. I have complained to local Sheriff’s Department, but despite their promises they have done zero enforcement in the area.
Don: Glad you enjoyed the show. Sorry about not getting to the pro cycling stuff, especially Jens’ hour record (Shut Up Hour!). We just had so much other content to discuss! 😉