Walk, Bike Conference
Dear Editor: In follow up to Doug Osborne’s letter to the editor on June 11, I want to thank all involved in making the 2019 Alaska Walk & Bike Conference (June 4-8) happen here in Sitka. I attended the conference which included informational seminars, hands-on learning activities, group bike rides, a “Walk Sitka” audit and numerous networking opportunities.
A significant piece of the conference curriculum focused on the Smart Cycling course (the League of American Bicyclists, www.bikeleague.org). As a Sitkan who enjoys walking and biking around town, I found the event valuable on several levels. I learned the key elements of bicycle mechanics and operation, as well as helpful tips on bike maintenance: I removed my bike tire and replaced the innertube and cleaned/oiled the bike chain, both empowering experiences.
The presenters included important reminders about the role and responsibility of the motorist in the safety and well-being of pedestrians and bicyclists. I was reminded that the two most risky behaviors for bicyclists are riding against traffic and biking on the sidewalks, because these two behaviors decrease the predictability and visibility of the bicyclist, resulting in a serious disadvantage for motorists.
As a motorist I learned how important it is to share the roads and that cyclists fare best when they are treated and act like other vehicles. We learned that often the safest place for a bicyclist is in the middle of the right lane, to allow for safe turning and to avoid car doors, as when riding on Lincoln Street. Since motorists have the potential to cause the most severe injuries and driver error accounts for about 50% of all bike/car collisions, it’s important for all drivers to follow the speed limit, stay off their phones, and only pass a cyclist when it’s safe, allowing at least 3 feet between car and bike. A very helpful technique we were taught is the Dutch reach: drivers in the Netherlands (a country of MANY bikes!) are taught to open the door with their right hand so that they naturally look back to see if a bike is coming, a technique proven to prevent injuries.
I encourage all to be aware of safe practices for pedestrians/motorists/bicyclists and to teach children safe bicycling practices. There are numerous online resources to help become educated about safe driving, walking and driving strategies, including a child specific curriculum: Bikeology at www.actionforhealthykids.org.
And, lastly, I urge everyone to watch for opportunities for engaging with our local Sitka Cycling Club and to join in on the 2020 Walk, Bike, Role conference, here in Sitka in June 2020.
Bitsy Mosher, Sitka
