Let us take the opportunity to clarify a few statements. What does the bicyclist pay? Since most bicyclists over 16 are also motorists, bicyclists pay all the same taxes, registration and insurance, albeit they pay a bit less gas tax as they use less gas when traveling by bicycle. And, bicycles produce far less wear and tear of the roadways when compared to a car. These bicyclists have already passed a written test indicating knowledge of highway rules and regulations as most have a driver's license.
Regarding potholes, it is safer to ride steadily and predictably in a straight line than to be stopping or darting in and out around obstacles trying to stay as far right as possible. Motorists should reduce speed for these bicycles as slow moving vehicles -- not unlike the motorist would slow when coming behind Hadley Gaylord or David Hartshorn on a farm tractor -- and pass when it is safe to do so.
We encourage all bicyclists to follow the rules of the road. Bicyclists riding erratically are the exception -- although highly visible -- and are disturbing to other bicyclists as well as motorists. For anyone interested in learning more or learning how to ride a bicycle more comfortably in traffic, please sign up for the upcoming Bike Ed courses sponsored by MRVHC (
Sue Frechette, MRVHC, Inc.
Dave Cain, Valley Moves
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