A month ago, around Labor Day, sadly two bikers lost their lives in separate accidents. One on upper Las Flores Canyon and one on Stunt Road. It’s been rumored that a third has perished just recently somewhere in the same general area. Our hearts and sincere sympathy go out to their friends, loved ones and families.
To a canyon biker our remarks no doubt will appear to be an attack on their rights. In our minds nothing could be farther from the truth. We non-bikers, mostly walking adults and children, plus a few dogs and bicyclists, are all in fear for our safety. We do recognize that most of these 20-30-year-old “invincible” riders have rapier-like reflexes and much experience hurtling their Ducati, (or equivalent), “crotch-rockets” around the canyon roads, which are regarded as their God-given race course. I’ll eat my hat if, on occasion, these racers are not reaching 80 mph on the straight stretches. Is this safe? We think not. First, the speed limit here is 40 mph. Second, when accelerating out of some blind corner, already going 60 mph, one of many surprises could confront the biker. Is he/she always ready and capable to handle whatever they might confront? We think not, and definitely not always. Third, the walkers have precious little walking area and I personally have been “blown off” by a “Ninja.”
Take my word for it–this can be frightening. So as I prefaced this comment on bikers feeling we’re impugning their rights, we reverse the challenge. We feel the bikers ride the canyons without regard to “our rights.” The encompassing right of ours is to be safe from motorcyclists operating in violation of the law (i.e., speeding and reckless driving). What can we do? Don’t know. We will have to wait and see. What should be done? A few cool heads and respected riders should hold forth at the Rock Store and talk it up. We feel we at least deserve consideration. If we could open up a dialogue for discussion, this would constitute a quantum leap.
Bikers, vent your spleen, call us names, put us down. But please don’t ignore us. Let’s talk about these issues. Open communication can accomplish wonders. Phone or write us c/o The Malibu Times, please.
Once again we’re truly sorry for recent biker losses. Please help us to not be innocent biker victims.
Dave Wilson and Arthur Holmes