At 3 Feet Please, we believe that respectful road sharing creates a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone. Consider sharing the ACT principles before a ride to help guide cyclists' behavior:
- Stay Alert: Continuously observe your surroundings, including traffic, pedestrians, and potential hazards.
- Anticipate Hazards: Predict potential issues and communicate them to fellow riders promptly.
- Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using headphones or mobile devices while riding to maintain full attention.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Adhere to all traffic signals and signs, ensuring predictable movements.
- Use Hand Signals: Clearly indicate your intentions to turn or stop to inform other road users.
- Ride Predictably: Maintain a steady path and avoid sudden movements that could surprise others.
- Respect All Road Users: Treat drivers, pedestrians, and fellow cyclists with kindness and patience.
- Acknowledge Courteous Behavior: Offer a friendly wave or nod to drivers who yield or assist.
- Yield Appropriately: Give way to pedestrians and communicate when passing to ensure everyone's comfort.
"Before we set off, we ride with the ACT principles: Awareness, Courtesy, and Thoughtfulness.
Today, we'll:
- Stop at all traffic signals and signs.
- Signal our turns clearly and in advance.
- Ride predictably and defensively.
- Take the lane when necessary for safety but yield when it's safe to do so.
- Pass pedestrians with care, using verbal cues like 'on your left.'
Positive interactions enhance our community's reputation. If frustrations arise, take a deep breath and choose patience. Any questions before we roll out?"
There's always that guy who rides against traffic, shouts at drivers, and tries to run over pedestrians. We haven't found a great solution for redirecting that passion and energy into constructive cycling, but here's some tips to at least help de-escalate. Have tips that work well for you? Please share by editing this page or emailing [email protected]!
When observing a rider's concerning behavior:
- Calmly Address: Approach the rider in a composed manner.
- Have a Private Chat: Speak discreetly to avoid public embarrassment.
- Explain the Concern: Describe the specific behavior and its potential risks.
- Clarify Expected Behavior: Refer to the ACT principles as a guideline.
- Keep It Constructive: Encourage improvement and express confidence in their ability to adapt.
Example Intervention:
"Hey [Name], I noticed you [specific behavior]. This could be risky because [reason]. Remember, our ACT principles emphasize [relevant principle]. Let's work together to keep our rides safe and enjoyable. Thanks for understanding."
If a rider continues problematic behavior after intervention:
- Assign them to ride at the back with an experienced mentor for guidance.
- In severe cases, request they take a break from group rides until they can align with the group's philosophy.
Addressing issues is about maintaining a safe, positive environment that reflects well on our cycling community.