• over_clox@lemmy.world
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    6 days ago

    Wow, you got lots of riding space there!

    In my area, some roads only have like 3 inches of pavement past the white line. Yes, it can be scary as fuck, but when there’s no bike path, where else to ride?

    Yes, it really can be scary riding the ~6 inches on the edge of the road, definitely not saying that’s ideal, it most certainly isn’t. But with no other option on some roads, I’d rather ride the white line than ride in the middle of traffic.

    • Rentlar@lemmy.ca
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      6 days ago

      but when there’s no bike path, where else to ride?

      That’s in the vehicle lane, which is the point I’m making here. It’s better to be in people’s direct line of vision. If they were distracted on their phone and couldn’t see you in the middle of the road, they won’t see you on the shoulder.

      I’m trying my best not to antagonize you for your choices. Ride however you feel safest and comfortable. Riding in the road isn’t safe for everyone, and riding on the shoulder or sidewalk is safer depending on your bike, what your roads look like, and the local rules. Often times like you say there’s no ideal option. All I ask is you don’t chastise other people just for making assessments for what is the safest option in their circumstances, based on your own generalized assessment.

      • over_clox@lemmy.world
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        6 days ago

        You’re absolutely right about that, it totally depends on the area (and my own knuckleheadedness). Of course I want all riders to be safe, I just don’t see how riding in the middle of the lane is in any way safe, brakes, reflectors, etc or not.

        I guess part of my side has to do with the drivers down my way. I always assume whatever vehicle behind me might not be paying attention and might be going 88MPH trying to travel through time. I just ain’t trying to be in their way…