In one of London’s many high streets, there was some old people crossing the road from church on a Sunday morning, they had completely taken over the road and although I had right away, it was nice to stop and say good morning to them and ask them how they were and have a little chat and then carry on, you feel a lot better, they feel a lot better (and safer) and the world becomes a better place in a second
Courtesy and friendliness is an effortless superpower, on and off the bike. It's so easy and immediately rewarding to acknowledge others with a simple head nod, a little wave, a smile, or a sincere 'thank you'. When you're in the flow of things people almost always pick up the vibe and reciprocate. I'm kinda surprised more cyclists don't get that.
Well done. Will be riding in Europe soon, so thanks for the advice. But, frankly almost all of your tips also apply to riding locally in one's own hometown as well as when traveling abroad. When training new bicyclists to be safe commuters i always say "Smile and wave. It don't cost nothing."
"It don't cost nothing" is a double negative, so you just said that it actually costs something ;-) Enjoy your cycle trip in "Europe", but which countries exactly are you visiting?
most of the 'those guys' i know are huge fans of path less pedaled, radavist etc. most of the 'performance' cyclists i know are far more welcoming, friendly, and far less snobby than the bikepacking crowd.
Here in southern Germany, biking is well regarded in towns, but there is beef between hikers and mountain bikers. I try to be a slow, friendly, considerate biker whenever I encounter walkers. Once, a little girl pointed at me and said to her dad: "Look, that mountain biker isn't crazy like all the others!" It was one of my proudest moments on a bike. We can do a lot in our everyday encounters with other users of the paths to ensure that bikers are welcomed.
We have the same problem here in the US. To be honest, I've many many rude mtb'ers that disregard all trail eitquette and can see why hikers hate mtb'ers. I try to do my part and slow down with plenty of distance to make eye contact and if they pull over and smile , I know it's cool to pass slowly and give a friend "thank you and enjoy the rest of your hike." If they don't make any eye contact or gestures, I completely stop and wait. With that said, it works both ways. I've come up behind many hikers , ring my bell instead of screaming "on your left" to startle them and they completely ignore you over and over. Some have their damned earbuds in and oblivious to the fact that there might actually be other trail users on the same trail as them. Some are just plain self-righteous mtb haters and just ignore you and refuses to let you pass them. You can only do what you can do but it's common sense to just be polite and friendly with every one. Most interactions are pleasant because they know we just want to be there enjoying nature alongside with them.
@@kosayno Completely agree that it needs to go both ways. There have been incidents in my local hills of people who hate bikers building traps on the trails, like stringing fishing wire across the trails or planting nails under the ground. That's criminal and the police get involved, but I don't think they have ever caught anyone. About bells: In the Alps, some people have a little cowbell that they hang on their bikes so it's constantly jingling and people don't get startled as you approach them. A bit like the bear bells you have in the US. You can silence the bell with a little magnet when you don't need it.
@@pezza100 I use the bell that I can just ding as needed and it's loud enough. Anything that can alert people sounds better than a loud(even thought polite) call is less threatening. However , I did get a dog walker on my bike path commute to work the other day snarkily saying "why didn't you call out" as I passed him. I was in a hurry so I just kept going but just thought to myself how the heck didn't you hear the three loud dings from my bell.
One of the most annoying line in the world for me, is Customers are always right, Uhm, just because you’re paying for the service does not mean that you can trample over people. 😤
"The customer is always right in matters of taste". It means, you should be happy to sell the customer ugly curtains. It does not extend their correctness to anything else. The phrase was corrupted and broken by people who were not right.
Meanwhile, when it comes to the functioning of a business, the customer is the absolute last person likely to be right. They have the least understanding of any of the operations of the thing.
Checking with local bike clubs and refuse who've toured the area before you is often super helpful. Especially ready the days with all the vlogs, vlogs and travel information shared online. And not preqchy, just good advice and we all do things that annoy others - trying to be more aware of it is the key! Thanks and really appreciate all the great content you create. Paul
Hello, I'm a Catalan follower. Cool video as always, with good advice, thank you! Anyway, the "cycling backlash" is about gentrification, not about manners. Que vagi bé! ^^
This ^^^. This is a real problem in many tourist areas. The other thing I'll add which I don't think was mentioned in the video is DON'T DROP YOUR TRASH! It is appalling the amount of gel wrappers I see when I'm riding.
Having done a fair bit of cycling through lightly-populated flyover America, I find waving works very well. Hardly anyone will not wave back, especially if they weren't expecting it. I wave at everyone - people in small towns, kids, farmers on tractors, and ESPECIALLY motorists who move over to pass more safely! With a friendly wave, they're more likely to treat the next cyclist the same way. Wave on!
I think following traffic laws is huggeeeeee. I find it sad when on my way to work every car stops when I'm coming to an intersection cause they're anticipating i run the red or run the stop sign. Gotta set the example.
That's weird; whenever I approach an intersection and have right of way, I do indeed expect the car drivers to run that stop sign or red light, because they often do. Your version is far better, or at least preferable to me.
Important to also know the laws where you’re at. In the US, more states are adopting the “Idaho Stop” which allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yields and red lights as stop signs.
As someone who works in an exchange student program, I understand the value of both sides coming together to understand and respect each other... and it is sometimes that a person is not being inconsiderate, it is just that they don't know what is common knowledge to the other person "offended" or "disturbed". whether you are the local, driving that big diesel engine truck down "your road", or you are the cyclist riding your bike down that perfect cycle touring road.... Be a nice human being... please and thank you!
You're never preachy, Russ! Great reminders and insights into getting the MOST out of a bike adventure (no matter the destination!). Love this topic -- feel free to make more :)
Great video! Been thinking along similar lines for tourism in general, especially here in Alicante, where after a night of partying, there’s so much trash the city has to pick up.
Not too preachy at all. I see a definite need for a lot of cyclists to brush up on their etiquette. I especially see groups of cyclists believing that they are their own special event and that everything should revolve around them.
Good collection of tips, and not at all preachy. Thank you. One subject not talked about is clothing. Riding around as a MAMIL (Middle-Aged Men In Lycra), or the female equivalent, especially in rural areas, typically doesn't set well. You're touring, not riding a criterium. I wear cycling shorts or bibs, but I wear comfortable shorts on top of them. A lightweight wool shirt with a presentable button-down on top goes a long way. Shoes are another sore spot with some people. I'm sure shop owners cringe at cyclists walking around with the Look cleats or similar types, clattering and digging into the flooring material. If you want to clip in, I do, use SPD pedals and shoes. You don't damage the floors of places you visit; you can walk in them like a normal human. As you pointed out, wave, smile, and say hello. It also makes you feel good inside. 👋
Yeah I think cyclists that go super hard into the roadie look stand out even amongst fellow cyclists, and I think it's really off-putting to especially non-cyclists, ESPECIALLY in places where there's very few cyclists in general. Almost no other modes of transport makes you stand out so much once you get to somewhere, just dress like a normal person, like you said, you're not riding a criterium.
Exactly. I also wear lycra shorts but with lightweight gravel shorts on top. I don't feel it slows me down and it's nice have some zippered pockets for snacks, wallet, etc.
In Europe a lot of older local cyclists are wearing roadie kit. If you are riding five hours in a hot country you need to wear appropriate kit. I think being courteous and observing traffic rules is far more important than what you wear.
@@ChrisWhittenMusic Here in the US, at least in the rural areas, it is a lot less common to see riders in full kit. Unfortunately, it is also more common to see people treating cyclists less-than-kindly. So anything that can be done to keep you from sticking out like a sore thumb is a good thing.
@@jimmccorison Cycling culture is extremely common in Europe and road cycling is still the most popular. I’ve taken to wearing a MAAP baggy t-shirt. Shorts with padding to buy are still mostly tight Lycra with a few baggy options mostly aimed at hot dogging mountain bikers. Not trying to argue as this is a friendly, positive channel, but when we’re cycling 80-100k on a 80f day I’m not going to be wearing street clothes, like cotton shirts and unpadded shorts, or two pairs of shorts.
Would be great to hear more ancient Greek travel etiquette! Also--isnt chatting with locals and learning about their experience part of the point anyways? Toured the UK for a month pre-covid and half the fun was chatting everyone up at small town pubs to find the best camping spots.
Great points I fully agree. Let’s call em the Russ Rules. When I do local tours here in France I see myself as a sort of ambassador. Helps keep me on my best behaviour
Any "city person", even someone like myself from a small rural city, is a "guest" when cycling in a rural area. Especially in what I term "deep gravel country" in my extremely rural area in Missouri. Cyclists are few and far between, and a true curiosity to many. I always strive to be friendly, courteous to people driving farm machinery on narrow roads, not to startle livestock, and patronize local businesses when possible. Also, if someone wishes to strike up a conversation with you, indulge them. Answer their questions with good cheer. To them, you really do represent, at least for that moment, every cyclist.
Here's one that is likely at the top end for pissing off residents of a place. Do not block traffic by riding along chatting 2 abreast. I've been riding in rural Oregon since before the bike boom, on great rural roads, know many of the locals from seeing them and waving or talking to them at starting spots. They all mention..."Those effing bikers riding along blocking me from getting my work done, getting my wheat to the silo, etc. etc.. They don't even care they're blocking the road!" I've called a few of these "types" out and gotten a big attitude back. Like riding is so important and such a fine accomplishment to have bought $Xx, xxx worth of fancy gear that "Those friggin rubes can just wait back there till I finish my story. Then I might move over, but I have a right to be on this road, too". Don't do that.
Great content! Be aware of your impact! Remember, unless you are moving there you are temporary. The term ambassador is very appropriate. BE the example that makes others want to do it.
Kickstands We couldn’t get them off our bikes quick enough in the 80’s. But as I’ve progressed to more urban and city riding, I’ve left them on if they don’t flop about and interfere with riding. A bike with a kickstand takes up less floor space and isn’t intrusively damaging another’s property. Velcro straps can be used on the levers to create a parking brake, or to secure the bike to something like a signpost or other utilitarian structure. Unfortunately there are those that feel because there are “laws”, any bicycle, motorcycle, or skateboard is considered illegal if it is perceived to inconvenience them.
Best way to prepare for this is practice it locally. Swing by those small stores on local rides, wave at people if they pass reasonably. You are going to do in other locations what you do on your home roads.
Maybe a an opportunity (if it's not already) to build something into the tourism web site for Girona so visitors can get acquainted with the etiquette before landing. It's the little things like traffic flow that you'd know about until you started getting glared at. There's no excuse not to be courteous and polite and always remember you are a guest and others live there. Great video.
We were on our 4 day out and back tour of part of the Katy trail. At a local bike shop before the ride, the owner told us the story of how the local farmers really hated bicycle tourists and that there had been shotguns brandished by local when cyclists would leave the trail by a couple of feet to relieve themselves. Turns out that the right of way for the railroad had just been taken from the locals originally with the promise that if the railroad failed, the land would revert to the locals. Instead, the railroad got “banked” in the form of a rail trail that could be reclaimed by the railroad and the farmers were left out of the equation. Went to a restaurant for lunch in a rural area. When they brought our food, it was in brown bags and, when we left, the people started talking again and went back to eating. It was an eerie 10 minutes.
@@watertankhikes certainly would recommend it. We have been back several times without issues. Many of our friends have done it as well with no problems. Just stay on the trail. Many of the locals have changed their minds over the years but I told the story to amplify the point of doing your homework before going to a new area and supporting locals as suggested.
Good work Russ & Laura. Civility needs to be reminded and cultivated. I make it a rule to make a contribution or spend some cash in all the rural areas I visit by bike. That and road courtesy has been rewarded with appreciation and kindness. I even got to visit with the Mayor of a small town in Washington State when I offered a contribution to the local fund raising to rebuild the city park, that we had overnighted on. And! We were offered use of a shower in the fire department next time through if we called ahead.
I have spent over 30 years cycle touring in Europe and I'd say you are spot on and there needs to be more discussions like this. Unfortunately we have a large number of people who want to enjoy the countryside without understanding the countryside. For instance two of the main reasons farmers don't want you camping on their land is because you disturb pregnant animals resulting in them loosing their babies and because you trample on meadows or corn making it difficult or occasionally impossible to harvest. If you make their lives difficult, don't be surprised if they don't want you around! There is an alternative to wild camping - just ask. In 30 years maybe I have been refused permission 5 or 6 times, often I have been offered a meal and a bed for the night.
Girona?? East coast! Nice! One of my exchange students lives closer to Lugo.. Hoping to do the Camino de Santiago and visit her in the next few years! Maybe even cycle it? Have you considered cycling it?
Excellent video Russ!! If we could all try to have good manners, empathy, and respect to others and the laws, whether you are a cyclist, walker, driver, or anyone that interacts with others, this world would be a much more peaceful and friendly environment. We are all together in this beautiful planet, we should try to help each other, and this Earth...
Good tips and sound advice but what about how tourism changes the economics of a place? That epic place that is so affordable may get overrun with tourists whose easy-spending ways drive up the cost of living for locals. Airbnbs are a good example of this, and over the years I've become more aware of the impact of my use of them drives up local rental rates and thus have been working on staying in hotels more.
I liked your point about not getting caught up in your own journey too much. After a day of riding, full of trials and tribulations, you might arrive in the next town in a downright bad mood. But it's still worth it to be as polite as you can.
Also remember to tip good! When we do our bike trips we always try to find a little whole in the wall local restaurant. Sometimes it is very busy and it may take a while before we get our food. We still make sure we give a good tip and we only tip cash! We cut a lot of corners on our trips to save money, tipping is not one of them.
Also write off your average speed from time to time. Once I was behind a group of like 15 elderly woman doing a bike ride. I could've easily honked them away, eventually causing trouble but decided to just coast behind. I then realized they don't even hear me with a loud hub. Stayed like that for quite a while and decided to just take the opposite turn once we reach the next crossing.
Would add: Consider breathable "gravel-casual" attire (rather than full lycra), as looking like a closely rather than distally related species will likely yield a higher score on the baseline empathy rating scale. Also, avoid the temptation to race the locals who aren't aware they're racing you.
Another one: Don't litter! I'm in Mallorca atm and some places have a fair amount of emptied gel packaging on the ground. Maybe some of them dropped accidentally while getting something else out of your back pocket of your jersey. However, just have a look around before you remount your bike. Leave no trace!
Loving all the American comments. lol. Biking culture is pervasive fully across Europe, and has very localized differences. There is no correlation between 'being nice' and problems residents have with cycling. Little villages want to be little villages. There's a tipping point between an economic benefit and too much intrusion. Some places embrace the intrusion and monetize it, some places not. There are huge cycling groups on Italian roads with no problems, not so in northern Germany, where drivers are more angry towards cyclists. Cycling in Europe for 15 years now, I have never once been confronted with a 'private property' sign that forced me to turn around. Love the channel(!), but hopefully the American-think will fade away.
I feel like this was more the norm when I was growing up in the 80’s. We could all use to pump the brakes a little bit and be a little more polite and respectful. Courteousness is definitely underrated.
Great advice and well-timed! A little homework before you ride is a good idea too. For example, in Germany the shared use sidewalks have gray paving for pedestrians and red for bikes and you don't want to use the wrong side. You can go the wrong way on a one-way street only if a "Frei" sign for bikes so notes. Some homework and a courteous attitude goes a long way.
Seems a very reasoned take but I do want to push back a little on parking. Sure, don't impede pedestrian access but if a community and business fails to provide secure and convenient bike parking then I don't feel too bad about leaning where I can if I'm a customer. And I'd also add if you see the cafe across the street does provide good bike parking then patronize them instead.
Not preachy at all. Barney the dinosaur said “please and thank you are the magic words.” So, yes indeed: be polite, courteous, appreciative and mindful of your circumstances and surroundings. Great video Russ.
I rented a bike in Barcelona, great way to get around the city! On the bigger streets I had to get used to sharing the side of the road with anything on 2 wheels. Other bikes, scooters/mopeds... 500cc motorcycles🤣 Honestly, I can't say anyone made me feel like I was blocking the way or holding up things up. Every time there was a traffic jam, stoplight, it'd be a train of us just creeping up the traffic past cars. I kind of felt a little bit more of a part of this local sub world of the city.
Completely agree, being a "jerk" on a bike doesn't just give cyclists a bad rep. it makes driver's so angry they're willing to run you over. Yes, there are rude drivers and pedestrians but being rude in return doesn't help.
Nice work! 👍 Very insightful conversation and food for thought! By the way, would you have any interest in trying our new market pannier? It has some pretty unique features and so far customers are loving it. We can send you one or a pair to try for free if you are interested. Love your content! 😊
@@MrKevinWhite , in my experience in rural areas in the US and overseas most will wave back (sadly fewer roadie cyclists return my waves than those driving trucks...)
I spent a summer in Houston and there were “running” paths and “cycling” paths. I was cycling to a shop ride on a running path (unbeknownst to me) and quickly felt like a salmon swimming upstream when a local had had enough and shouted, “Get the F- off the path!” Oops. I was that guy…
I don't do group rides and usually avoid 60 km zones and up on my bicycle . The truth is that some car drivers are idiots and some cyclists are idiots .
Why? They are so much more flexible than a hotel or resort. I'd argue it is better for the environment, and more money goes to locals. With 2-3 families or groups they are a game changer.
@@Potz4pizza I think EVERYTHING in the market is increasing the cost of housing. That is happening anywhere for a variety of reasons, usually taxes. Government is going to business properties for the tax revenues. They just removed half of our bike trail for more condos... Condos that most can't afford, and they are near a land fill. SMH
For what it's worth, I thought it was odd there were no restrictions on riding your bike in Girona's old town. I can't see how that helps relations with the locals.
You're making a great point here. Although I find it very sad that we even have to have this discussion about courtesy and respect as a visitor to a place. Here in Portugal, cycling is known as the new golf. I swapped road cycling for mountain biking and off-road bikepacking as I was sick of being a part of the most arrogant sector of society I had come across in 58 years......road cycling groups. I just didn't want to be part of it. I admire you for spelling it out, but, how sad that there is even a need to do so.
In one of London’s many high streets, there was some old people crossing the road from church on a Sunday morning, they had completely taken over the road and although I had right away, it was nice to stop and say good morning to them and ask them how they were and have a little chat and then carry on, you feel a lot better, they feel a lot better (and safer) and the world becomes a better place in a second
Very good reminders about the host and guest relationship. As a guest you are also an ambassador of your group.
Excellent point about pedestrians being above cyclists on the Road Use Totem Pole
Fantastic reminders to be a good humans!
Courtesy and friendliness is an effortless superpower, on and off the bike. It's so easy and immediately rewarding to acknowledge others with a simple head nod, a little wave, a smile, or a sincere 'thank you'. When you're in the flow of things people almost always pick up the vibe and reciprocate. I'm kinda surprised more cyclists don't get that.
Well said!
Well done. Will be riding in Europe soon, so thanks for the advice. But, frankly almost all of your tips also apply to riding locally in one's own hometown as well as when traveling abroad. When training new bicyclists to be safe commuters i always say "Smile and wave. It don't cost nothing."
"It don't cost nothing" is a double negative, so you just said that it actually costs something ;-) Enjoy your cycle trip in "Europe", but which countries exactly are you visiting?
@@mucklark6943 Yeah, but it has a certain comic je ne sais quoi. Speaking of, will be biking in Provence, France.
"Those Guys" are unaware that they are those guys
@@Jacob99174those types. You know. Them.
most of the 'those guys' i know are huge fans of path less pedaled, radavist etc.
most of the 'performance' cyclists i know are far more welcoming, friendly, and far less snobby than the bikepacking crowd.
Same kind of people who were bullies in school. But they never think of themselves as bullies.
Here in southern Germany, biking is well regarded in towns, but there is beef between hikers and mountain bikers. I try to be a slow, friendly, considerate biker whenever I encounter walkers. Once, a little girl pointed at me and said to her dad: "Look, that mountain biker isn't crazy like all the others!" It was one of my proudest moments on a bike.
We can do a lot in our everyday encounters with other users of the paths to ensure that bikers are welcomed.
We have the same problem here in the US. To be honest, I've many many rude mtb'ers that disregard all trail eitquette and can see why hikers hate mtb'ers. I try to do my part and slow down with plenty of distance to make eye contact and if they pull over and smile , I know it's cool to pass slowly and give a friend "thank you and enjoy the rest of your hike." If they don't make any eye contact or gestures, I completely stop and wait. With that said, it works both ways. I've come up behind many hikers , ring my bell instead of screaming "on your left" to startle them and they completely ignore you over and over. Some have their damned earbuds in and oblivious to the fact that there might actually be other trail users on the same trail as them. Some are just plain self-righteous mtb haters and just ignore you and refuses to let you pass them. You can only do what you can do but it's common sense to just be polite and friendly with every one. Most interactions are pleasant because they know we just want to be there enjoying nature alongside with them.
@@kosayno Completely agree that it needs to go both ways. There have been incidents in my local hills of people who hate bikers building traps on the trails, like stringing fishing wire across the trails or planting nails under the ground. That's criminal and the police get involved, but I don't think they have ever caught anyone.
About bells: In the Alps, some people have a little cowbell that they hang on their bikes so it's constantly jingling and people don't get startled as you approach them. A bit like the bear bells you have in the US. You can silence the bell with a little magnet when you don't need it.
@@pezza100 I use the bell that I can just ding as needed and it's loud enough. Anything that can alert people sounds better than a loud(even thought polite) call is less threatening. However , I did get a dog walker on my bike path commute to work the other day snarkily saying "why didn't you call out" as I passed him. I was in a hurry so I just kept going but just thought to myself how the heck didn't you hear the three loud dings from my bell.
One of the most annoying line in the world for me, is Customers are always right, Uhm, just because you’re paying for the service does not mean that you can trample over people. 😤
The origin and corruption of that original quote is an interesting story.
"The customer is always right in matters of taste". It means, you should be happy to sell the customer ugly curtains. It does not extend their correctness to anything else.
The phrase was corrupted and broken by people who were not right.
@@joejordan401 yes, and it’s always been taken off context and it’s annoying cause it is used haphazardly just to put someone else above everyone.
the customer is always the customer
Meanwhile, when it comes to the functioning of a business, the customer is the absolute last person likely to be right. They have the least understanding of any of the operations of the thing.
Great tips. That’s awesome you guys worked on Oregon Scenic bikeways. Living in Bend, we appreciate the work you two did.
Checking with local bike clubs and refuse who've toured the area before you is often super helpful. Especially ready the days with all the vlogs, vlogs and travel information shared online.
And not preqchy, just good advice and we all do things that annoy others - trying to be more aware of it is the key! Thanks and really appreciate all the great content you create. Paul
Be friendly and courteous. Great advise. Some of my best memories of touring is the kindness of strangers.
Hello, I'm a Catalan follower. Cool video as always, with good advice, thank you!
Anyway, the "cycling backlash" is about gentrification, not about manners.
Que vagi bé! ^^
This ^^^. This is a real problem in many tourist areas. The other thing I'll add which I don't think was mentioned in the video is DON'T DROP YOUR TRASH! It is appalling the amount of gel wrappers I see when I'm riding.
Having done a fair bit of cycling through lightly-populated flyover America, I find waving works very well. Hardly anyone will not wave back, especially if they weren't expecting it. I wave at everyone - people in small towns, kids, farmers on tractors, and ESPECIALLY motorists who move over to pass more safely! With a friendly wave, they're more likely to treat the next cyclist the same way. Wave on!
I think following traffic laws is huggeeeeee. I find it sad when on my way to work every car stops when I'm coming to an intersection cause they're anticipating i run the red or run the stop sign. Gotta set the example.
I've recently noticed that. I now make it a point to either slow down or stop and indicate the driver who got there first has right of way.
That's weird; whenever I approach an intersection and have right of way, I do indeed expect the car drivers to run that stop sign or red light, because they often do.
Your version is far better, or at least preferable to me.
you stop at stop signs?
Important to also know the laws where you’re at. In the US, more states are adopting the “Idaho Stop” which allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yields and red lights as stop signs.
As someone who works in an exchange student program, I understand the value of both sides coming together to understand and respect each other... and it is sometimes that a person is not being inconsiderate, it is just that they don't know what is common knowledge to the other person "offended" or "disturbed". whether you are the local, driving that big diesel engine truck down "your road", or you are the cyclist riding your bike down that perfect cycle touring road.... Be a nice human being... please and thank you!
You're never preachy, Russ! Great reminders and insights into getting the MOST out of a bike adventure (no matter the destination!). Love this topic -- feel free to make more :)
You hammered out all the important stuff, per usual. Keep this amazing content up and thank you!!!!
Awesome video for me as a commuter at home and for anyone anywhere in the world, biking or not!
Great video! Been thinking along similar lines for tourism in general, especially here in Alicante, where after a night of partying, there’s so much trash the city has to pick up.
Not too preachy at all. I see a definite need for a lot of cyclists to brush up on their etiquette. I especially see groups of cyclists believing that they are their own special event and that everything should revolve around them.
Good collection of tips, and not at all preachy. Thank you.
One subject not talked about is clothing. Riding around as a MAMIL (Middle-Aged Men In Lycra), or the female equivalent, especially in rural areas, typically doesn't set well. You're touring, not riding a criterium. I wear cycling shorts or bibs, but I wear comfortable shorts on top of them. A lightweight wool shirt with a presentable button-down on top goes a long way. Shoes are another sore spot with some people. I'm sure shop owners cringe at cyclists walking around with the Look cleats or similar types, clattering and digging into the flooring material. If you want to clip in, I do, use SPD pedals and shoes. You don't damage the floors of places you visit; you can walk in them like a normal human.
As you pointed out, wave, smile, and say hello. It also makes you feel good inside. 👋
Yeah I think cyclists that go super hard into the roadie look stand out even amongst fellow cyclists, and I think it's really off-putting to especially non-cyclists, ESPECIALLY in places where there's very few cyclists in general. Almost no other modes of transport makes you stand out so much once you get to somewhere, just dress like a normal person, like you said, you're not riding a criterium.
Exactly. I also wear lycra shorts but with lightweight gravel shorts on top. I don't feel it slows me down and it's nice have some zippered pockets for snacks, wallet, etc.
In Europe a lot of older local cyclists are wearing roadie kit. If you are riding five hours in a hot country you need to wear appropriate kit. I think being courteous and observing traffic rules is far more important than what you wear.
@@ChrisWhittenMusic Here in the US, at least in the rural areas, it is a lot less common to see riders in full kit. Unfortunately, it is also more common to see people treating cyclists less-than-kindly. So anything that can be done to keep you from sticking out like a sore thumb is a good thing.
@@jimmccorison Cycling culture is extremely common in Europe and road cycling is still the most popular. I’ve taken to wearing a MAAP baggy t-shirt. Shorts with padding to buy are still mostly tight Lycra with a few baggy options mostly aimed at hot dogging mountain bikers. Not trying to argue as this is a friendly, positive channel, but when we’re cycling 80-100k on a 80f day I’m not going to be wearing street clothes, like cotton shirts and unpadded shorts, or two pairs of shorts.
Would be great to hear more ancient Greek travel etiquette! Also--isnt chatting with locals and learning about their experience part of the point anyways? Toured the UK for a month pre-covid and half the fun was chatting everyone up at small town pubs to find the best camping spots.
Just common sense but needed to be said.
It usually helps to wave, say Hi and smile.
Great points I fully agree. Let’s call em the Russ Rules. When I do local tours here in France I see myself as a sort of ambassador. Helps keep me on my best behaviour
Any "city person", even someone like myself from a small rural city, is a "guest" when cycling in a rural area. Especially in what I term "deep gravel country" in my extremely rural area in Missouri.
Cyclists are few and far between, and a true curiosity to many. I always strive to be friendly, courteous to people driving farm machinery on narrow roads, not to startle livestock, and patronize local businesses when possible.
Also, if someone wishes to strike up a conversation with you, indulge them. Answer their questions with good cheer. To them, you really do represent, at least for that moment, every cyclist.
Here's one that is likely at the top end for pissing off residents of a place. Do not block traffic by riding along chatting 2 abreast. I've been riding in rural Oregon since before the bike boom, on great rural roads, know many of the locals from seeing them and waving or talking to them at starting spots. They all mention..."Those effing bikers riding along blocking me from getting my work done, getting my wheat to the silo, etc. etc.. They don't even care they're blocking the road!"
I've called a few of these "types" out and gotten a big attitude back. Like riding is so important and such a fine accomplishment to have bought $Xx, xxx worth of fancy gear that "Those friggin rubes can just wait back there till I finish my story. Then I might move over, but I have a right to be on this road, too".
Don't do that.
Great content! Be aware of your impact! Remember, unless you are moving there you are temporary. The term ambassador is very appropriate. BE the example that makes others want to do it.
Kickstands
We couldn’t get them off our bikes quick enough in the 80’s.
But as I’ve progressed to more urban and city riding, I’ve left them on if they don’t flop about and interfere with riding.
A bike with a kickstand takes up less floor space and isn’t intrusively damaging another’s property.
Velcro straps can be used on the levers to create a parking brake, or to secure the bike to something like a signpost or other utilitarian structure.
Unfortunately there are those that feel because there are “laws”, any bicycle, motorcycle, or skateboard is considered illegal if it is perceived to inconvenience them.
A HUGE Amen! and So be it! on everything you said!
Best way to prepare for this is practice it locally. Swing by those small stores on local rides, wave at people if they pass reasonably. You are going to do in other locations what you do on your home roads.
Maybe a an opportunity (if it's not already) to build something into the tourism web site for Girona so visitors can get acquainted with the etiquette before landing. It's the little things like traffic flow that you'd know about until you started getting glared at. There's no excuse not to be courteous and polite and always remember you are a guest and others live there. Great video.
We were on our 4 day out and back tour of part of the Katy trail. At a local bike shop before the ride, the owner told us the story of how the local farmers really hated bicycle tourists and that there had been shotguns brandished by local when cyclists would leave the trail by a couple of feet to relieve themselves. Turns out that the right of way for the railroad had just been taken from the locals originally with the promise that if the railroad failed, the land would revert to the locals. Instead, the railroad got “banked” in the form of a rail trail that could be reclaimed by the railroad and the farmers were left out of the equation. Went to a restaurant for lunch in a rural area. When they brought our food, it was in brown bags and, when we left, the people started talking again and went back to eating. It was an eerie 10 minutes.
Damn, what a pack of arseholes!
@Billlakeview Given your experiences on the Katy Trail, would you recommend it? Just wondering, as it's long been on my bucket list. Thanks.
@@watertankhikes certainly would recommend it. We have been back several times without issues. Many of our friends have done it as well with no problems. Just stay on the trail. Many of the locals have changed their minds over the years but I told the story to amplify the point of doing your homework before going to a new area and supporting locals as suggested.
Good advice, well said.
Great advice Russ
slowing down is a huge one
I agree, slowing down and riding a relaxed safe pace around areas with walkers is important. No you are not preachy.
and you can enjoy your surroundings more when you're moving at those slow speeds. Win-win!
Good work Russ & Laura. Civility needs to be reminded and cultivated. I make it a rule to make a contribution or spend some cash in all the rural areas I visit by bike. That and road courtesy has been rewarded with appreciation and kindness.
I even got to visit with the Mayor of a small town in Washington State when I offered a contribution to the local fund raising to rebuild the city park, that we had overnighted on. And! We were offered use of a shower in the fire department next time through if we called ahead.
great job, and a good reminder for all of us who bike. thanks.
I have spent over 30 years cycle touring in Europe and I'd say you are spot on and there needs to be more discussions like this. Unfortunately we have a large number of people who want to enjoy the countryside without understanding the countryside. For instance two of the main reasons farmers don't want you camping on their land is because you disturb pregnant animals resulting in them loosing their babies and because you trample on meadows or corn making it difficult or occasionally impossible to harvest. If you make their lives difficult, don't be surprised if they don't want you around! There is an alternative to wild camping - just ask. In 30 years maybe I have been refused permission 5 or 6 times, often I have been offered a meal and a bed for the night.
Girona?? East coast! Nice! One of my exchange students lives closer to Lugo.. Hoping to do the Camino de Santiago and visit her in the next few years! Maybe even cycle it? Have you considered cycling it?
Excellent video Russ!! If we could all try to have good manners, empathy, and respect to others and the laws, whether you are a cyclist, walker, driver, or anyone that interacts with others, this world would be a much more peaceful and friendly environment. We are all together in this beautiful planet, we should try to help each other, and this Earth...
Good tips and sound advice but what about how tourism changes the economics of a place? That epic place that is so affordable may get overrun with tourists whose easy-spending ways drive up the cost of living for locals. Airbnbs are a good example of this, and over the years I've become more aware of the impact of my use of them drives up local rental rates and thus have been working on staying in hotels more.
Thanks for the advice! I do try to be friendly and wave to everyone I can, but I am guilty of running stop signs when there're only a few cars around.
i’m innocent running stop signs: idaho stops are legal here!!
These are good reminders for any sort of traveler.
I liked your point about not getting caught up in your own journey too much. After a day of riding, full of trials and tribulations, you might arrive in the next town in a downright bad mood. But it's still worth it to be as polite as you can.
Thanks, one of your best pieces yet!
Also remember to tip good! When we do our bike trips we always try to find a little whole in the wall local restaurant. Sometimes it is very busy and it may take a while before we get our food. We still make sure we give a good tip and we only tip cash! We cut a lot of corners on our trips to save money, tipping is not one of them.
Well said sir! Keep 'em coming.
AWESOME TIPS! Thank you for this 😎👍💯
Also write off your average speed from time to time. Once I was behind a group of like 15 elderly woman doing a bike ride. I could've easily honked them away, eventually causing trouble but decided to just coast behind. I then realized they don't even hear me with a loud hub. Stayed like that for quite a while and decided to just take the opposite turn once we reach the next crossing.
Nope, not too preachy at all. Always a great reminder.
Those were all good reminders (even though they should also be common sense). Saying "hi", and smiling really isnt too tough.
Thanks for this good reminder!
Just this. Thanks!
Well said and needs saying. Cheers!
Awesome video and timely. Thanks
Could generalize to how to be a good tourist - great suggestions
Would add: Consider breathable "gravel-casual" attire (rather than full lycra), as looking like a closely rather than distally related species will likely yield a higher score on the baseline empathy rating scale. Also, avoid the temptation to race the locals who aren't aware they're racing you.
Another one: Don't litter! I'm in Mallorca atm and some places have a fair amount of emptied gel packaging on the ground. Maybe some of them dropped accidentally while getting something else out of your back pocket of your jersey. However, just have a look around before you remount your bike. Leave no trace!
This is really good advice. Thanks
Too easy . Thanks for the tips..
Great video! Very thoughtful!
great video with great info getting put out there.
Great advice for all travellers 😎
Loving all the American comments. lol. Biking culture is pervasive fully across Europe, and has very localized differences. There is no correlation between 'being nice' and problems residents have with cycling. Little villages want to be little villages. There's a tipping point between an economic benefit and too much intrusion. Some places embrace the intrusion and monetize it, some places not. There are huge cycling groups on Italian roads with no problems, not so in northern Germany, where drivers are more angry towards cyclists. Cycling in Europe for 15 years now, I have never once been confronted with a 'private property' sign that forced me to turn around. Love the channel(!), but hopefully the American-think will fade away.
I feel like this was more the norm when I was growing up in the 80’s. We could all use to pump the brakes a little bit and be a little more polite and respectful. Courteousness is definitely underrated.
Good advice and reminders!
Great advice and well-timed! A little homework before you ride is a good idea too. For example, in Germany the shared use sidewalks have gray paving for pedestrians and red for bikes and you don't want to use the wrong side. You can go the wrong way on a one-way street only if a "Frei" sign for bikes so notes. Some homework and a courteous attitude goes a long way.
Treating others as you want to be treated goes a long way. DBAA, from Breaking Bad.
Guilty of being an a**hat but I'm growing into a more patient cyclist as I age❤
Great reminder!
Seems a very reasoned take but I do want to push back a little on parking. Sure, don't impede pedestrian access but if a community and business fails to provide secure and convenient bike parking then I don't feel too bad about leaning where I can if I'm a customer. And I'd also add if you see the cafe across the street does provide good bike parking then patronize them instead.
Now link to the channel that says not to be "that driver".
Not preachy at all. Barney the dinosaur said “please and thank you are the magic words.” So, yes indeed: be polite, courteous, appreciative and mindful of your circumstances and surroundings. Great video Russ.
Good Sound advice. Don't be a Lycra lunny and scream at people to get out of your way. We all have to share the road
Very helpful. Thanks
I rented a bike in Barcelona, great way to get around the city!
On the bigger streets I had to get used to sharing the side of the road with anything on 2 wheels. Other bikes, scooters/mopeds... 500cc motorcycles🤣
Honestly, I can't say anyone made me feel like I was blocking the way or holding up things up. Every time there was a traffic jam, stoplight, it'd be a train of us just creeping up the traffic past cars. I kind of felt a little bit more of a part of this local sub world of the city.
Completely agree, being a "jerk" on a bike doesn't just give cyclists a bad rep. it makes driver's so angry they're willing to run you over. Yes, there are rude drivers and pedestrians but being rude in return doesn't help.
Hear, hear. Well said.
Nice work! 👍 Very insightful conversation and food for thought! By the way, would you have any interest in trying our new market pannier? It has some pretty unique features and so far customers are loving it. We can send you one or a pair to try for free if you are interested. Love your content! 😊
Thanks for this video! If youre back in southern germany, lets take a ride together :D
For the first point it highly depends. Where I am from in Asia,smiling and waving at Random people will earn you the title of crazy loony
I'm also curious how many of those pick-up truck drivers are going to be waving to cyclists.
@@MrKevinWhite , in my experience in rural areas in the US and overseas most will wave back (sadly fewer roadie cyclists return my waves than those driving trucks...)
Should bikes give way to vehicles on narrow roads?
I spent a summer in Houston and there were “running” paths and “cycling” paths. I was cycling to a shop ride on a running path (unbeknownst to me) and quickly felt like a salmon swimming upstream when a local had had enough and shouted, “Get the F- off the path!” Oops. I was that guy…
LMAO at Odysseus' return Home...
You said the name of the city where you live a number of times and not once did I understand what you were saying.
I don't do group rides and usually avoid 60 km zones and up on my bicycle . The truth is that some car drivers are idiots and some cyclists are idiots .
Good stuff.
So... common sense kind of stuff.
Great video. Love it.
Did u meet Lael or any of the Komoot crew in the last 2 weeks?
Good video, thanks.
I have just visited Girona and the shop.
Way too high end for me $17000 for a bike and too many people showing off outside.
Each to their own I guess.
Biggest complaint I hear from non-cyclist is when they are riding side-by-side on a road that is narrow
1. Don't support Airbnb
Why? They are so much more flexible than a hotel or resort. I'd argue it is better for the environment, and more money goes to locals. With 2-3 families or groups they are a game changer.
Airbnb drives up housing costs, pushing locals out.
@@skyrunr Airbnb drives up housing costs in an area, driving locals out.
@@Potz4pizza I think EVERYTHING in the market is increasing the cost of housing. That is happening anywhere for a variety of reasons, usually taxes. Government is going to business properties for the tax revenues. They just removed half of our bike trail for more condos... Condos that most can't afford, and they are near a land fill. SMH
Great recommendations.
I find that I am a better guest when I am touring solo.
What goes around, comes around.
Thank you for cutting to the chase.
Many of us focus on ourselves; we’re all in this together.
For what it's worth, I thought it was odd there were no restrictions on riding your bike in Girona's old town. I can't see how that helps relations with the locals.
You're making a great point here. Although I find it very sad that we even have to have this discussion about courtesy and respect as a visitor to a place. Here in Portugal, cycling is known as the new golf. I swapped road cycling for mountain biking and off-road bikepacking as I was sick of being a part of the most arrogant sector of society I had come across in 58 years......road cycling groups. I just didn't want to be part of it.
I admire you for spelling it out, but, how sad that there is even a need to do so.