By Pete Radowick
The recent tragedy in Michigan shines a harsh light on the spate of altercations between bicyclists and motorists taking place on America’s roadways.
Typical of the public outpouring in the wake of the multiple fatalities in Kalamazoo was the sentiment that “Michigan has a real problem with motorists and cyclists sharing the road.”
We here in Texas know the problem is more universal. As a result, cycling clubs are emphasizing road safety more than ever. It could – or should – be Issue No. 1 in 2016.
But the news is not all bad. We, cyclists and motorists, can get along.
Dennis Stuart, a resident of Katy, Texas, who rides with Houston’s Northwest Cycling Club, has an uplifting vignette from the road this week.
Here’s how Dennis tells it, in his own words with some editing for brevity and clarity:
“Today, as I was near the end of a 50-ride near Hockley, I got a pretty bad cramp in my right leg. After three unsuccessful attempts to work it out and get back on the bike, I was starting to think I’d have to walk the remaining 1 1/2 miles back to the car.
Then, a very nice woman by the name of Natalie stopped and asked if I needed help. I admit I’m not very good at accepting help because I don’t want to inconvenience people or maybe it’s my own stubborn independence. But in this case I wasn’t sure if I could get back under my own power, so I gladly accepted Natalie’s offer and was deposited back at my car in relative comfort.
Brief background: I arrived for a group ride with the wrong cleats so I went home to get the right shoes. When I got back, the group had departed. Given the late start and the June heat upon us, I didn’t plan well and was not properly hydrated.
The good news is that I met a very nice non-cyclist out on the road today, and I think there may be a lot more than we suspect.
So, if you’re out in that area on Old 290 near Hockley and see a gray Toyota Camry, give Natalie a wave!”
