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It is the (other) cars that are in the way (mine never is). That is true regardless of whether I am on a bike, car or whatever.

I have yet to see a traffic jam caused by or consisting of bicycles. There are plenty of jams caused by cars. One can look daily at the corners of Broad and Memorial or Cason Lane and Old Fort for proof. Do you see cars or bicycles? How about cars? Which cause the congestion?

When I drive out Halls Hill Pike there have been 2 or 3 cyclists on the road riding between 10 & 20 mph. They have never delayed me more than 30 seconds or so. They are easier to pass than a car especially when riding 2 abreast as they are not strung out down the road. I pass them like I would a car or tractor - When it is safe to do so on the other side of the road.

Regarding narrow twisty roads with no shoulders, cyclists are slow relative to cars. This means that they are in view for plenty of time to see them regardless of hills or curves. The only exception is when I come up on a cyclist from the opposite direction. Then I may not see them but this is only a problem if they are riding in my lane on the other side of the road into oncoming traffic. It would also be a problem if I (car driver) were inattentive and chose to drive into oncoming traffic.

Regarding driver respect, I was recently in SC. There were lots of cyclists on bikes ranging from high end road bikes to KMart specials. Many riding groups consisted of families including children. Drivers were respectful because there were so many cyclists and because they or family members or friends cycled, not because the cyclists were unobtrusive or obeyed the road rules more than TN cyclists obey.

My observation is that other than floating a stop sign most distance road cyclists are within the law. Drivers also roll through stop signs. This actually helps traffic flow. Those that have a problem with it and want to nit pick should get a life or perhaps volunteer to become a stop sign ticket writer.

I see some cyclists in town who still believe that they should ride against traffic. Many of this group appear to use their bike as their primary transportation form. Some education is appropriate - but again, they are not a major impediment to traffic. (See paragraph 2 for the major traffic halters.)

Perhaps the lazy driving cars who are upset by cyclists should save money spent on over eating and buy a bike. (Can you say TN obesity?) With fewer cars on the road, we wouldn't have to spend as much re-paving streets and health care costs would decline as these new riders shed weight.

Re: Did you see this little gem in the Tennessean Wednesday?

Sarah, You are spot on with your comments! It is a huge sign of disrespect not to go single file when a driver approaches from behind.

Re: Did you see this little gem in the Tennessean Wednesday?

Not trying to hyjack the thread, sort of related..
Check out Johnny Hoogerlands'& Flechas' crash in the tour a couple of days ago.
http://youtu.be/mYPDAry-A-s

Johnny needs a 38

T