I was saddened, but far from surprised, to read Susan Tellem’s diatribe against cyclists on PCH based solely on the new courtesy signs to “Share the Road.” I am a longtime and long-traveling cyclist. In 2000 I rode my bike 19,752 miles around the world, crossing six continents and 46 countries. I learned that the United States is the only country that dislikes and disrespects cyclists. Tellem claims that PCH is too populated for cyclists. I’ve ridden my bike through major cities all over the world with more ease than on PCH. Cyclists have as much right to most roads as motorists. My tax dollars, like yours, pay for the roads. I’m willing to share. Why aren’t you? In fact, I believe that I’m doing motorists a favor by making cycling my primary form of transportation. I ride my bike 150 to 200 miles a week for exercise, for errands and for transportation. I save gas. I burn calories so I stay fit, easing the burden on our beleaguered health-care system.
I do agree with critics that any cyclist who breaks the law deserves to be ticketed and reprimanded. There are cyclists that break the law, but I have never read about a helmeted, experienced cyclist getting arrested for speeding, weaving across double lines or riding drunk. We also don’t drink coffee or eat hamburgers while we ride, put on make-up, solve crossword puzzles, smooch with our sweeties or dial-up our cell phones.
Yes, two cyclists were killed on PCH last year. But lots more people are killed in auto accidents on PCH. Does that mean we shouldn’t drive our cars there? If more people in Malibu got on their bikes, there would be a lot more healthy people. Guess what? There’d be a whole lot less traffic on PCH! And that would make sharing the road a lot easier.
I believe in sharing my love of bicycling and enjoy getting people hooked on the sport. If anyone would like to join me on a safe ride, please go to the Web site for the Los Angeles Wheelmen (www.lawheelmen.org), a 61-year-old bicycling organization. Click on “Officers” for my e-mail address. I’d welcome the opportunity to get you pedaling and to change the way you look at the roads and the world around you.
Bobbi Fisher
Vice President, LA Wheelmen