Absolutely this. We ride bikes because it's fun and because we want to get to our final destination in one piece. If you feel uncomfortable crossing a busy intersection and it's not fun, it's best to just walk the bike on the sidewalk. Lots of bad things can happen if you're riding a bike while having a panic attack because of all the traffic. Just revisit the same intersection later once you've researched your route and when the traffic is not as intense.
@@tetraphobie Applies if the hill is too steep for your current fitness level to ride in a safe manner for the amount of traffic too. Or if the road condition/debris is bad enough for the tires you have that a blowout would send you into a hood.
"Nobody is out to kill you. Nobody is out to harm you..." Even in a car, I was nearly run off the road because some guy thought it was _so important_ to pass another vehicle on the right. I was on the right, he was tailgating another car passing me slowly. He was next to me and just started moving into the right hand lane, counting on me braking before he hit me, just to make an opening so he could pass another car. He 100% saw me. He. Did. Not. Care. So yeah, I get what Zach is saying but some people will _absolutely_ gamble your safety for their convenience.
Yeah that’s a better way to put it. No one is out to get you while driving (unless you piss them off or if they seem just mad in general then they might), but whether they care about your existence is another thing. Just be a defensive cyclist or when using the bike lane in case a driver decides they don’t care anymore. This is coming from someone who drives defensively, cycles defensively, scoots defensively, etc. I’ve tried a lot of forms of transportation, just play it safe if your brain is telling you to.
It's such a funny phrase to yell at us. In my town right turn lanes merge over the bike gutters, and some dude didn't look and started merging. I was going way faster and I had to ride past him in the turn lane and swerve back in to the bike gutter. He yelled that at me, and it pissed me off because, yes, exactly and he's not a bike and if he'd crossing my lane, he needs to yield to me.
I’m a fixie cyclist and at the same time, a driver in the Philippines. Our roads are narrow. However, I always make sure to give enough space for cyclists to move around whenever I pass them by with my car. The key to safe driving and cycling is to always look far enough to predict the movement of people or other vehicles.
In some ways chaotic Southeast Asian traffic rocks for cycling. I live in Indonesia, and because of the amount of mopeds and motorcycles, most drivers are much more aware of non-car vehicles, like bicycles. I bet I'd feel safer cycling in chaotic Jakarta traffic than say most US cities.
Dood. I got ran over by a drunk driver last year. I can just now walk. And now I got the fear again. Great video. Fear is real. Can’t wait to get back out on the road.
Hopefully the person who ran over you is in jail or somewhere. I do food deliveries and sometimes cars passes me so damn fast and I am just why? Why are you risking it? To be somewhere 3 minutes faster? Fucking bullshit. I know about a guy who lost his hand because of car incident on a bike.. He is now running and cycling local race which is 1000 miles long and is really hero. But I cannot imagine living without hand or leg or something.. Fuck some drivers but also some cyclists are dumb :D
@@vertoRr Man unfortunately the guy hasn’t been to court yet because of COVID. But think he is a multiple offender so he will loose his license for a while. And probably a year in jail. We’ll see. Hit me from the back going 60 mph with a Lincoln Navigator. So I’m lucky to be alive. I have those same responses when they brush your shoulder with their rear view mirror. Especially when there’s two lanes. Just too much at risk. Wish there was more on a drivers exam about cyclist and sharing the road. But until then be safe out there and god bless.
My strategy to get safely through traffic: - be patient and be nice - never attack people, even if they're wrong (but that's just how I roll, it's not biking specific) - be willing to brake, stop and go slow. This sounds stupid but I know that sometimes I catch myself taking "adventurous" routes through the city, because somehow I don't want to stop and just keep going. I think it's a natural behavior, but you need to get rid of it fast. If there's an obstacle, just stop. - don't use unsafe infrastructure that is meant for bikes like biking lanes between flowing traffic and parking cars - the more dense, hectic and sometimes aggressive traffic around me gets, the more space I take for myself on the road. So I try to take almost as much space on the street as a car, because I use this empty space around me like a buffer zone between me and the driving cars. - look for alternative routes. I'd rather take a slight detour to avoid the super busy streets at the hours of high traffic
@Bebo Yep, if I see a work vehicle or someone who won't pass me, or a lot of traffic, I pull over. I once saw a fred riding downhill on the center yellow line because traffic was stopped...
I'm a fixed gear rider and roadie from Singapore.In my country,even if you cycle responsibly on the road,a decently proportion drivers simply don't quite recognise that drivers have the right to use the roads,or are simply egoistic,which is reflected in how they react.
The fear of the danger on the road is far greater than the reality. Here in the UK studies have shown that the risk of injury on a bicycle is the same as that for a pedestrian over the same distance.
That's probably true, but since bicyclists tend to cover more distance than pedestrians, I'd say that 1 hour spent biking is going to be more dangerous than 1 hour spent walking, since they cover more distance in that time
Also, if you want to make your commute safer, buy the Hornit DB140 bike horn. Its nearly as loud as a car horn and is an excellent tool to caution nearby vehicles of your presence.
Well once you finish the upgrades..the total doesn’t stack up to a cars expense and upgrades. I’m just speaking the bare minimum on a car. It’s much harder to look for a good mechanic that you can trust for a car compare to a bike mechanic.
aaaand.... even if they are the one who hit you, you will be the one who will got blamed cuz you ride your bike on a busy road and it's fucking Philippines. No matter how careful you ride there's always jackass driver who doesn't care cuz you ride on a bike.
I love these points. I'm also a big fan of picking your battles. There are some roads that are too fast, too narrow and just plain too dangerous to bother riding down. Yes, technically I do have the legal right to do it in most cases (some highways in Canada ban cycling), but it's just a smarter option sometimes to pick another route where I won't be squeezed up to, and blocking fast moving traffic with no good route of escape if things go wrong.
There are places and roads I'd avoid. Also instead of turning left across traffic sometimes I'll turn down a side street. I'll dismount and have a much better view than trying to look behind me. If traffic is really bad, I'll walk across.
Been on two wheels a long time, thank you Zach you have helped me tremendously! I have a 2021 Kilo TT pro pre ordered and I cannot wait to meet my first fixed
Teaching my son to ride in traffic ! And so thankful for videos like this that are full of honesty! We both subscribed to hopefully continue teaching him the ways of a bike rider 💪🏼🙌🏼 thank you!
I love cycling and am also a school bus driver. predicting what other vehicles are going to do is so important. eye contact is also super important.as well as obeying the rules of the road. also, if someone wants to be an ass just do your best to get out of their way and let them be an ass. nothing is more important than avoiding an accident. - my two cents
Agreed. I see fewer bottles, ice cubes, fire extinguisher discharges than I used to. You can't change an ass so get out of the way. Karma will likely deal with them. Don't let them spoil your fun Hold your head high!
Easily the best video on the subject I've seen on UA-cam so far! Just my .02 cents: - Every town/city is its own traffic microcosmos, something that works perfectly in one place may very well be a death sentence in another* (and vice-versa) - Route planning is everything. This includes having in your head at least one detour for every major section in your route. However, don't be afraid to deviate (iff you are in a safe neighborhood/town), you never know what you'll find! - Your ears are your best rear-view mirror. Train them! - Bike infrastructure (particularly physically segregated bike lanes within roads) is your friend until you get the training/equipment to go fast. Then it becomes your most bitter enemy. - The most important skill for riding in traffic is learning to ride very slowly/start from a complete stop in a straight line. *: Just two examples: In the city I live (and nowhere else in the country AFAIK), riding on the sidewalk is legal (except on pedestrian streets) but discouraged** (and heavily frowned upon by pedestrians), and due to road design doing that left turn is an extremely bad idea (going the wrong way while the lights are red, however, is perfectly feasible). **: The law essentially says "Cyclists should ride on the road, but may ride on the sidewalks except for pedestrian streets".
You should do more video’s where you interact with other fixed gear riders, like asking them for advice or asking questions. Thanks for the advice on this video btw👌
FWIW, whether you're allowed to bike on the sidewalk depends on the state: Washington State does permit it, and I use that heavily when I'm on a street with Scary Cars (i.e. going >25mph without a bike lane). Obviously you need to be safe about it and yield to pedestrians but I would rather live and go slow than die quickly.
The sidewalk is for walking imo. Riding over driveways and stopping for pedestrians mulling about is no way to push ones self for exercise. Its why i stopped riding at the park when my average speed got over 12.5mph.
I just bought myself an Ebike (loving it) and my biggest issue is trying to get comfortable and understand (and informing others) of my rights to ride in the road and on bike path.
Bike path is different than bike lanes..I'm learning. Class 2 and above E bikes not allowed on multi use paths but anything allowed on bike lanes ..lanes are on the road next to traffic
Thank for articulating your advice in such a mater of fact manner. From years of riding in city traffic, I've internalized the info you presented to where it'd be difficult to convey to someone else. One tip I've found quite useful is to look at the driver's hand position on the steering wheel. If his or her right hand goes to the 12:00 position, hit the brakes if you have 'em, or bang a right turn immediately on your brake less fixed gear bike. Many thanks for having this unique UA-cam channel !¡!¡
It's also a good idea to pay attention to the front wheels as well. The right hand going to 12:00 position implies a left turn since you say to bang a right turn. That's the best way to dodge a left hook turn in the city.
I can not reiterate this hard enough. Never be too nice to cars. It will get you hit. You have to make them turn the wheel a little bit to pass you or they will just ignore you and hit you with a side mirror. Large pickup trucks are the most likely to be angry and do this. Your tip about using turn lanes is also crucial. its scary at first but MAKE them acknowledge you. That's the main point.
In Brooklyn I get cut off by cars making right turns who don't check their mirrors, cars trying to "steal" a left turn as the light turns green, and full blocks of people double-parked in the bike lane. Deep breaths 🙏
I don't have a vehicle so I've been cycling everywhere for the last three months. I live in a small town in the US where basically no one is a good driver. One of the biggest things I remind myself is that while you're more exposed on a bike than in a car, you are also far more maneuverable. On a bike, I can slip between two cars, duck into a parking lot, ride on the shoulder (if there is one) all things that are far less easy in an actual car.
Use front and rear lights even during daytime. Watch for oncoming traffic turning left in front of you, especially if you're trailing behind another vehicle. Watch out for cars passing you making a right turn. Any car that passes, be prepared and assume they will turn right. Watch for people sitting in their parked cars, because they might open their door on you. I recently added a small drop bar mirror, and it's one of the best things I ever added.
2:19 this is very true guys be careful, when my mom was 19-20 she was hit by a drunk driver while on a bike ride with my dad, had to have multipe surgeries on her left arm and now at 40 years old she still has damage in her left elbow.
In California vehicles are required to treat the bike like a car and merge into a different lane to pass. Hopefully one day the cops will enforce said law...
This video kinda helps, was supposed to go for a group ride yesterday but anxiety got the best of me thinking about riding with traffic. Hopefully I can get over it after a few small rides
Riding. through the streets is REALLY easier than yiu think. Just ride zach nailed it, cars pay attention- it's 3asy going, you can pretty much ride along side cars likea little fish
So dont split lanes in traffic... I saw a motorcyclist being hauled off the freeway in a gurney yesterday. His bike looked to be in better shape than he was. I saw no movement from the body.
be aware, be vigilant, everyone's an idiot on the road. learn from your mistakes, if you have a near miss ask yourself how you can avoid it next time. don't get aggressive with road users. be patient and have fun
Rules when in city streets: wear helmet, plan ahead, no sudden turns on the bike, be attentive to cars signal lights and street lights, car parked on the street or stopped in the lane look under it to check if someone or animal might be about to cross in front of the car and the one on the lane could also see if the wheels are turning left or right that could mean they might be about to take off so you should avoid passing it on that particular side (Cause the driver might not be looking)
Thanks ranger rick! What are the rules to protecting your pickinick basket from yogi and boo boo? So im supposed to stop and check under every car for wildlife, got it! I think ill just stick to the law when on the road. I'll be 3 feet from the parked cars anyway, if something jay walks into me its their fault. If it totals my bike its a lawsuit and they broke the law, not me.
I love seeing rides in Laguna. Franklin has a great bike lane all the way to midtown Sac, and Clarksburg wine-country is one of the most beautiful country sides to ride a bike through. Thanks for the traffic tutorial ZG.
I'd say that how to feel safe is just to do it and figure out what makes you feel most comfortable. I started off on low traffic four lane roads or two lane roads with a bike lane on each side and moved my way up to highways (not interstates) and heavily trafficked streets. What makes me feel most safe is to ride in such a way as to not be a nuisance to drivers so as to give them no reasons for road rage; this includes 1. Getting off fast from stop lights 2. Rolling stops at stop signs when possible to keep momentum and take less time for those behind me 3. Staying as far right in the lane as is safe to ride or on the shoulder when available to allow easier passing 4. Using sidewalks if my presence on the road would cause traffic to get backed up (such as when there is not an easy way to pass). It's different for everyone, but the more times you ride on road and don't die, the more comfortable you'll feel as your constant fear of getting hit slowly fades away.
Ha! I just gave my old man my mtb as I'm a roadie now. Im trying to provide an avenue to heart health. If you havent given the kid the bike, i highly suggest it. I was given the mtb i had by my step father and it has definetlet changed my life for the better. Although its also given me an expensive hobby!
Over the years I've noticed more close calls wearing dark clothing. Even with a bright orange bike and flashing day lights this seems to hold true. I ride the same with a front brake as brakeless. One exception last week was hitting 30 mph briefly and knowing I'd have to stop. The brake was used to ride reasonably dangerous. With the larger cog on the other side I would have been able to stop without the brake.
In my early 20's I rode sport bikes (motorcycles) for years, and drive manual only, so my attention/reaction reflexes on the road are very high. Having said that, I've done "dangerous" so when I'm out riding my bike, I'm trying to avoid being careless to try and look like some kind of badass. Ride safe.
Shitty life cycling tip, carry a small piece of porcelain. It instantly spiderwebs tempered glass without much force. I wouldn't recommend this unless you can outride them when they running after you.
Another tip: Go find a path or area where cars can't go through. 12mph is pretty damn fast when you're running but it's not very much for a bike but be sure to accelerate quickly.
Thank you for saying "Nobody is out to kill you." So many UA-camrs are into fear-mongering and saying "Assume that drivers are out to kill you" when that's a horrible mindset.
There is crazy out there. Not that its trying to kill you, but it might not care if you're in the way, or even notice. Ive seen too much. I consider certain places good for cycling on the road and certain places bad. Most of LA is bad for cycling on the streets. Your life might be in the hands of an illegal immigrant joy riding a stolen vehicle and they're coming up on you from behind weaving through traffic with 0 concern for any law. If you go to Manhattan traffic is so busy cars are fighting for inches while cyclists split car lanes in any lane, not just the right lane. I once got hit by someone on manhattan and they brushed it off like meh no biggie, the rental companies just expect it to happen. Toss bikes in that mix? Not me. I saw a city bus intentionally destroy a 7 series bmw for trying to play traffic games and it didnt even stop, just continued on its way. In my experience, the heavier the traffic, the less safe things are. People are too preoccupied with their self centered intentions to be fully aware of whats going on at times. I would hate to throw a bike in that mix. I do ride my bike on streets unabashedly. I just try to be smart about it and use other means when possible. I also think this is why gravel riding has gained popularity. Riding trails is so much nicer than roadways.
Never owned a car, rode road/fixed/commute in Chicago for 14 years; super comfy in traffic. I don't disagree with anything you said, but I feel like you drifted into a lot of describing what it's like for you, in a way that doesn't help somebody uncomfortable get from here to there. Rivers don't stop, and if you feel like it's a problem to just stop and wait at an intersection, you're going to be uncomfortable (or at least unsafe) until you develop those super powers of perception. People who are new to it should pretend they're in a car, move in straight lines, stay visible and predictable, and do way less worrying about what drivers will think about it. As long as they can see you, and you're following traffic rules like any driver, you're good.
What are you talking about? Drivers DO stop. They stop all the time. They have this thing called a brake pedal that they hit whenever they have to slow down and stop for something that is right in front of them. They do this automatically, almost without thinking.
This spring I tried riding fixed gear for first time(s). I decided just to try. Once I took off it felt so natural that I completed my usual route. Slowing down using legs (just slowing, not skidding) seemed so easy that I did again and again and for first time it was too much, after ride knee was sensitive for several days - probably because I had sudden deceleration when weekend cyclist drove in front of me without looking around. Next time I spun without back-pressure and no leg discomfort. Fixed gear is one crazy substance, I must admit. I don't say Im converted as in some situations freewheel is useful to adjust pedal position. But oh so nice.
Nice video man. Spot on. Just a couple of observations if you'll indulge me... Push-bike helmets don't offer the protection you claim. They're specced & designed to protect against a low speed *fall* nothing else. Volvo tested them & found they offer no use in a collision. Chris Bordman has a lot of the detail on this. The other point is that (in the UK at least) cyclist have the right to use the road, drivers don't. They only have permission. If I don't have a valid license, insurance, VED & MOT then I can't drive whereas no one can refuse me access to the road as a cyclist. Anyway, enough of that. Thanks for the video & keep up the tip-top work! ✊
Helmets help for a limited number of circumstances, which is better than nothing. And a fall is more common than a collision (more people die from that than collisions.) A motorcycle helmet is really a better option and IMO looks cooler.
kind of wish I could do this. since most of the cagers in my area are hicks, I've been almost hit to many times. do they hate us because we are free? not locked in a box and can feel the wind on our face?
Funny story: What got me to wear my helmet is one day when i was zipping down a hill on a back road, my hat went flying off behind me. I had to go back, pick it up, some guy was like "you lost your hat!" (thanks captain obvious) and then I was like well... that sucks... guess I will wear my helmet now. What solidified it for me was when I remembered I had some heavy metal stickers from an event I went to months ago, so I put them on my helmet and made it my own, it is now a form of self expression that I love wearing. I ride an e- city bike so I use my still in excellent shape skateboard helmet, but I wanna get a custom mountain bike helm next.
I never ride on the road like how a car uses the lanes. To use the lanes the same way, in the same space, as a car, is to also trust 'X' number of people to fall in line and not falter. I never expect cars to turn, stop, slow, or even see me. I choose to be like water, and heed the tides. Experience will turn smooth into fast, all while flowing like water. The cars will do what they do and I change my technique based on what MIGHT happen. Never expect anything from a car on the road, or anyone with anything for that matter. You got dope vids doe ✌bikelife!
I hit used to riding in traffic by just riding in traffic. Well my friend forced me to stop riding my bike on the sidewalk and start riding in the road to be faster. It’s been 2 years and now I only ride on the road and understand how much more fun it is.
Even though I ride my cycle regularly in a small city. I always plan my route.It's probably #1 for safety (after helmets), the other is to build in time to get somewhere. Bikes are slower and rushing to get somewhere makes people take more risks.
I crashed twice into others, once due to my exterme high top speed, the other time because of riding fast on the side walk. I bike over 40 years. If you don't do extreme things, you are fine (in my country)
for me it isn't 99% of traffic that wigs me out, it's the work trucks with those open trailers on the back that have random items hanging off well into the snag your shirt space.
It is not “illegal to ride a bike on the sidewalk in the USA”. Each State has their own laws. In my State it is absolutely legal to ride a bike on sidewalks. In fact, most States either permit riding on sidewalks or have no law prohibiting riding on a sidewalk. I found 3 that prohibit riding on sidewalks. Google is your friend (sometimes😊).
It's not illegal everywhere in the US to bike on the sidewalk. I know off-hand that MA and CT both permit biking on the sidewalk unless the local municipality prohibits it. I think NY state is the same, but it's prohibited in NYC
Ive been clipped soo many times, even in the bike lane. So I had to resort to riding against traffic in the bike lane to avoid it, or on the sidewalk when there is no bike lane. I know its illegal but I'd rather get a ticket then broken bones and damaged bike. I've never had any drivers stop, they probably didn't even notice and I couldn't get a license plate so the police couldn't do anything.
The problem I have with wearing a helmet is that I snowboard everyday in the winter without one unless im hitting a really big jump but even then im still taking that shit off to film and skateboard during the dry without one so ima have to live on the un reasonably dangerous side I guess but I sware I never hit my head tuck and roll
I am impressed by your proficiency with the selfie stick. That must have taken a lot of practice to perfect. At first, I thought you were being videoed by someone on a bike in front of you. Then you had a view high up from the side, which made me suspect a drone. Then I noticed the shadow of the selfie stick extending from your left hand. This must have taken some careful planning. In the early shots, the sun is at your back, so the shadow of the selfie stick is out of the frame. In most of the later shots, you are riding in the shade, so the shadow is visible only intermittently.
Yo zack you should make a what to do when you get hit by a car video. Just had my first hit yesterday and when I searched the topic on YT I didn’t find much. I think this would be a good video for all us cyclists
The one thing I would add is if you want to be respected by drivers and treated equally as cars, we all need to also follow the rules of the road while in traffic. Too many cyclists just run stop signs and red lights and weave in and out of stopped traffic, then get pissed when someone runs them off the road or does not yield right of way to them. Be a respectful and courteous cyclist, it will not stop people from being an asshole, but it makes you a more responsible and safer rider with more integrity than the douches that I see out there.
It's technically against the law to ride bicycles on the sidewalk. And it's probably the only law on the books that's objectively safer to break than it is to obey.
To add, there's no shame in walking your bike in times of uncertainty. Don't force the issue. Better safe than sorry.
Lmao
Excellent point! Ignore the toxicity, our lives are way more important than looking "lame". Getting hit by a car sucks man!!
100% correct. Just make sure your shiny toe clips don't drag on the ground! (strap them to the chainstay or something temporarily)
Absolutely this. We ride bikes because it's fun and because we want to get to our final destination in one piece. If you feel uncomfortable crossing a busy intersection and it's not fun, it's best to just walk the bike on the sidewalk. Lots of bad things can happen if you're riding a bike while having a panic attack because of all the traffic. Just revisit the same intersection later once you've researched your route and when the traffic is not as intense.
@@tetraphobie Applies if the hill is too steep for your current fitness level to ride in a safe manner for the amount of traffic too. Or if the road condition/debris is bad enough for the tires you have that a blowout would send you into a hood.
"Nobody is out to kill you. Nobody is out to harm you..."
Even in a car, I was nearly run off the road because some guy thought it was _so important_ to pass another vehicle on the right. I was on the right, he was tailgating another car passing me slowly. He was next to me and just started moving into the right hand lane, counting on me braking before he hit me, just to make an opening so he could pass another car. He 100% saw me. He. Did. Not. Care. So yeah, I get what Zach is saying but some people will _absolutely_ gamble your safety for their convenience.
Yeah that’s a better way to put it. No one is out to get you while driving (unless you piss them off or if they seem just mad in general then they might), but whether they care about your existence is another thing. Just be a defensive cyclist or when using the bike lane in case a driver decides they don’t care anymore.
This is coming from someone who drives defensively, cycles defensively, scoots defensively, etc. I’ve tried a lot of forms of transportation, just play it safe if your brain is telling you to.
"you're not a car" has been yelled at me last week, so I think I'm doing this right.
Lol some chick yelled that at me when i was cycling in a lane that was marked: "cyclists can use full lane"
@@holben27 it's such a weird thing to say, like what am I supposed to with this information? I'm already where I'm supposed to be.
😂😂😂
It's such a funny phrase to yell at us. In my town right turn lanes merge over the bike gutters, and some dude didn't look and started merging. I was going way faster and I had to ride past him in the turn lane and swerve back in to the bike gutter. He yelled that at me, and it pissed me off because, yes, exactly and he's not a bike and if he'd crossing my lane, he needs to yield to me.
damn, I'm not the only one, so I also think I'm doing this right.
I’m a fixie cyclist and at the same time, a driver in the Philippines. Our roads are narrow. However, I always make sure to give enough space for cyclists to move around whenever I pass them by with my car. The key to safe driving and cycling is to always look far enough to predict the movement of people or other vehicles.
You earn every cyclist respect .
He has a mtb in the back and his helmet on it lol
Cool but you are a cyclist, 99% normal drivers just don’t do this.
In some ways chaotic Southeast Asian traffic rocks for cycling. I live in Indonesia, and because of the amount of mopeds and motorcycles, most drivers are much more aware of non-car vehicles, like bicycles. I bet I'd feel safer cycling in chaotic Jakarta traffic than say most US cities.
Traffic in the Philippines is chaotic!!
Dood. I got ran over by a drunk driver last year. I can just now walk. And now I got the fear again. Great video. Fear is real. Can’t wait to get back out on the road.
Your a true cyclist my friend!
Hopefully the person who ran over you is in jail or somewhere. I do food deliveries and sometimes cars passes me so damn fast and I am just why? Why are you risking it? To be somewhere 3 minutes faster? Fucking bullshit. I know about a guy who lost his hand because of car incident on a bike.. He is now running and cycling local race which is 1000 miles long and is really hero. But I cannot imagine living without hand or leg or something.. Fuck some drivers but also some cyclists are dumb :D
same 2 y ago.. i feel you .. but the more you think of it the worse. just hit the road man ..ride or die
@@fehrcarlo2381 thank you man. Been riding a bit today!!!!
@@vertoRr Man unfortunately the guy hasn’t been to court yet because of COVID. But think he is a multiple offender so he will loose his license for a while. And probably a year in jail. We’ll see. Hit me from the back going 60 mph with a Lincoln Navigator. So I’m lucky to be alive. I have those same responses when they brush your shoulder with their rear view mirror. Especially when there’s two lanes. Just too much at risk. Wish there was more on a drivers exam about cyclist and sharing the road. But until then be safe out there and god bless.
My No.1 Rule. Don’t EXPECT anyone to do anything!!! Protect yourself at all times!
looking at drivers is so key. Getting through traffic got so much easier once I started staring into the soul of drivers
My strategy to get safely through traffic:
- be patient and be nice
- never attack people, even if they're wrong (but that's just how I roll, it's not biking specific)
- be willing to brake, stop and go slow. This sounds stupid but I know that sometimes I catch myself taking "adventurous" routes through the city, because somehow I don't want to stop and just keep going. I think it's a natural behavior, but you need to get rid of it fast. If there's an obstacle, just stop.
- don't use unsafe infrastructure that is meant for bikes like biking lanes between flowing traffic and parking cars
- the more dense, hectic and sometimes aggressive traffic around me gets, the more space I take for myself on the road. So I try to take almost as much space on the street as a car, because I use this empty space around me like a buffer zone between me and the driving cars.
- look for alternative routes. I'd rather take a slight detour to avoid the super busy streets at the hours of high traffic
I'm a cyclist here in Manila Philippines.
Man I wish car drivers would treat us cyclists like people instead of random GTA NPCs
same in Bratislava, especially BMW drivers...
Its everywhere kabayan. Im in NY, almost everybody hates cyclist.
@Bebo Yep, if I see a work vehicle or someone who won't pass me, or a lot of traffic, I pull over. I once saw a fred riding downhill on the center yellow line because traffic was stopped...
@Bebo "asserting their right on the road" ..? so only rude impatient fossil fuel powered death trap tin can drivers have that right? OK
I'm a fixed gear rider and roadie from Singapore.In my country,even if you cycle responsibly on the road,a decently proportion drivers simply don't quite recognise that drivers have the right to use the roads,or are simply egoistic,which is reflected in how they react.
The fear of the danger on the road is far greater than the reality. Here in the UK studies have shown that the risk of injury on a bicycle is the same as that for a pedestrian over the same distance.
Same here in the US.
Those studies are probably flawed as fuck.
That's probably true, but since bicyclists tend to cover more distance than pedestrians, I'd say that 1 hour spent biking is going to be more dangerous than 1 hour spent walking, since they cover more distance in that time
Also, if you want to make your commute safer, buy the Hornit DB140 bike horn. Its nearly as loud as a car horn and is an excellent tool to caution nearby vehicles of your presence.
U mad
"cycling saves you money" LOOOL :D
Generally speaking, yes. If you go down the rabbit hole, no 😂
That’s what I thought. I thought you only need one stock bike, then it becomes addictive 🥲
Even thou its a sarcastic remark it actually is cheaper than owning a car 😂
Until you finish upgrading it that is 😂
Well once you finish the upgrades..the total doesn’t stack up to a cars expense and upgrades. I’m just speaking the bare minimum on a car. It’s much harder to look for a good mechanic that you can trust for a car compare to a bike mechanic.
Zach: Nobody is out to kill you, nobody is out to harm you..
*Cyclist in the Philippines left the group chat*
😂😂
Also India & Bangladesh.
New York : Has left the chat
aaaand.... even if they are the one who hit you, you will be the one who will got blamed cuz you ride your bike on a busy road and it's fucking Philippines. No matter how careful you ride there's always jackass driver who doesn't care cuz you ride on a bike.
As someone whos cycled in the Philippines and Texas I can tell you, Texas is far worse
Forget eye contact, watch the wheels on a car if its in your way and you’ll see if theyre about to hit you or not
This is what I do all the time, get a faster read than looking for a face through tinted glass
Yup!
Damn straight.
Yup. Ive had people make eye contact with me then drive right in front of me.
Your videos have helped me get the confidence to ride around traffic in CHI, GDL, and PHX. Keep up the good work!
I love these points. I'm also a big fan of picking your battles. There are some roads that are too fast, too narrow and just plain too dangerous to bother riding down. Yes, technically I do have the legal right to do it in most cases (some highways in Canada ban cycling), but it's just a smarter option sometimes to pick another route where I won't be squeezed up to, and blocking fast moving traffic with no good route of escape if things go wrong.
I get this. You could also ride on the sidewalk if spacious enough or not crowded.
There are places and roads I'd avoid. Also instead of turning left across traffic sometimes I'll turn down a side street. I'll dismount and have a much better view than trying to look behind me. If traffic is really bad, I'll walk across.
i have never clicked so fast on a video before
Been on two wheels a long time, thank you Zach you have helped me tremendously! I have a 2021 Kilo TT pro pre ordered and I cannot wait to meet my first fixed
Congrats!
My friend has a Kilo WT, but I rarely see people talk about that one for whatever reason.
@Bebo Even before that there's more about the TT than the thicc WT
Teaching my son to ride in traffic ! And so thankful for videos like this that are full of honesty!
We both subscribed to hopefully continue teaching him the ways of a bike rider 💪🏼🙌🏼 thank you!
I love cycling and am also a school bus driver. predicting what other vehicles are going to do is so important. eye contact is also super important.as well as obeying the rules of the road.
also, if someone wants to be an ass just do your best to get out of their way and let them be an ass. nothing is more important than avoiding an accident. - my two cents
Give them the finger 🖕🏿🤪🤣 and let them be an ass.
@Bebo thaaaannkkss????
Agreed. I see fewer bottles, ice cubes, fire extinguisher discharges than I used to. You can't change an ass so get out of the way. Karma will likely deal with them. Don't let them spoil your fun Hold your head high!
You literally look like the guy from The Simpsons
@@Leithboys I'm a girl tho 😭😭😭😭
With that wide lense camera you look like going 70km/h with your 53x11 gearing
Easily the best video on the subject I've seen on UA-cam so far! Just my .02 cents:
- Every town/city is its own traffic microcosmos, something that works perfectly in one place may very well be a death sentence in another* (and vice-versa)
- Route planning is everything. This includes having in your head at least one detour for every major section in your route. However, don't be afraid to deviate (iff you are in a safe neighborhood/town), you never know what you'll find!
- Your ears are your best rear-view mirror. Train them!
- Bike infrastructure (particularly physically segregated bike lanes within roads) is your friend until you get the training/equipment to go fast. Then it becomes your most bitter enemy.
- The most important skill for riding in traffic is learning to ride very slowly/start from a complete stop in a straight line.
*: Just two examples: In the city I live (and nowhere else in the country AFAIK), riding on the sidewalk is legal (except on pedestrian streets) but discouraged** (and heavily frowned upon by pedestrians), and due to road design doing that left turn is an extremely bad idea (going the wrong way while the lights are red, however, is perfectly feasible).
**: The law essentially says "Cyclists should ride on the road, but may ride on the sidewalks except for pedestrian streets".
Very much agree on the ears - just as important as my eyes honestly.
You should do more video’s where you interact with other fixed gear riders, like asking them for advice or asking questions.
Thanks for the advice on this video btw👌
FWIW, whether you're allowed to bike on the sidewalk depends on the state: Washington State does permit it, and I use that heavily when I'm on a street with Scary Cars (i.e. going >25mph without a bike lane). Obviously you need to be safe about it and yield to pedestrians but I would rather live and go slow than die quickly.
The sidewalk is for walking imo. Riding over driveways and stopping for pedestrians mulling about is no way to push ones self for exercise. Its why i stopped riding at the park when my average speed got over 12.5mph.
Talking constantly during cycling is a new level of workout! :)
No, talking is a great monitor for what zone level you are riding in.
I just bought myself an Ebike (loving it) and my biggest issue is trying to get comfortable and understand (and informing others) of my rights to ride in the road and on bike path.
Bike path is different than bike lanes..I'm learning. Class 2 and above E bikes not allowed on multi use paths but anything allowed on bike lanes ..lanes are on the road next to traffic
My boy Zach is finally getting sponsors
Thank for articulating your advice in such a mater of fact manner. From years of riding in city traffic, I've internalized the info you presented to where it'd be difficult to convey to someone else. One tip I've found quite useful is to look at the driver's hand position on the steering wheel. If his or her right hand goes to the 12:00 position, hit the brakes if you have 'em, or bang a right turn immediately on your brake less fixed gear bike. Many thanks for having this unique UA-cam channel !¡!¡
It's also a good idea to pay attention to the front wheels as well.
The right hand going to 12:00 position implies a left turn since you say to bang a right turn. That's the best way to dodge a left hook turn in the city.
I can not reiterate this hard enough. Never be too nice to cars. It will get you hit. You have to make them turn the wheel a little bit to pass you or they will just ignore you and hit you with a side mirror. Large pickup trucks are the most likely to be angry and do this. Your tip about using turn lanes is also crucial. its scary at first but MAKE them acknowledge you. That's the main point.
In Brooklyn I get cut off by cars making right turns who don't check their mirrors, cars trying to "steal" a left turn as the light turns green, and full blocks of people double-parked in the bike lane.
Deep breaths 🙏
I don't have a vehicle so I've been cycling everywhere for the last three months. I live in a small town in the US where basically no one is a good driver. One of the biggest things I remind myself is that while you're more exposed on a bike than in a car, you are also far more maneuverable. On a bike, I can slip between two cars, duck into a parking lot, ride on the shoulder (if there is one) all things that are far less easy in an actual car.
Great video man. Thanks for the tips!
Use front and rear lights even during daytime. Watch for oncoming traffic turning left in front of you, especially if you're trailing behind another vehicle. Watch out for cars passing you making a right turn. Any car that passes, be prepared and assume they will turn right. Watch for people sitting in their parked cars, because they might open their door on you. I recently added a small drop bar mirror, and it's one of the best things I ever added.
2:19 this is very true guys be careful, when my mom was 19-20 she was hit by a drunk driver while on a bike ride with my dad, had to have multipe surgeries on her left arm and now at 40 years old she still has damage in her left elbow.
In California vehicles are required to treat the bike like a car and merge into a different lane to pass.
Hopefully one day the cops will enforce said law...
This video kinda helps, was supposed to go for a group ride yesterday but anxiety got the best of me thinking about riding with traffic. Hopefully I can get over it after a few small rides
Riding. through the streets is REALLY easier than yiu think. Just ride zach nailed it, cars pay attention- it's 3asy going, you can pretty much ride along side cars likea little fish
Behave like a very slow motorcycle. It works WONDERS.
So dont split lanes in traffic...
I saw a motorcyclist being hauled off the freeway in a gurney yesterday. His bike looked to be in better shape than he was. I saw no movement from the body.
be aware, be vigilant, everyone's an idiot on the road. learn from your mistakes, if you have a near miss ask yourself how you can avoid it next time. don't get aggressive with road users. be patient and have fun
I’ve been yelled at from regular drivers and recently a policeman hassled me as he was speeding by 😂😂
Gotta love being in the public enemy top 5
Hey Zach! Missed ya, glad to see the uploads back up c:
I hope to travel with my bike once covid settles down. Those clips in other places look so fun.
Rules when in city streets: wear helmet, plan ahead, no sudden turns on the bike, be attentive to cars signal lights and street lights, car parked on the street or stopped in the lane look under it to check if someone or animal might be about to cross in front of the car and the one on the lane could also see if the wheels are turning left or right that could mean they might be about to take off so you should avoid passing it on that particular side (Cause the driver might not be looking)
Also, _use hand signals._ Telegraph your intentions. Good drivers will love you for it.
Thanks ranger rick! What are the rules to protecting your pickinick basket from yogi and boo boo?
So im supposed to stop and check under every car for wildlife, got it!
I think ill just stick to the law when on the road. I'll be 3 feet from the parked cars anyway, if something jay walks into me its their fault. If it totals my bike its a lawsuit and they broke the law, not me.
@@brandonhoffman4712 Bathe in honey and go frolicking in the woods...
@@fehrcarlo2381 sounds like your sunday funday!
Still enjoy the looks I get wearing the Reasonably Dangerous shirt from the first print round.
Nice drone work! Awesome vid.
I love seeing rides in Laguna. Franklin has a great bike lane all the way to midtown Sac, and Clarksburg wine-country is one of the most beautiful country sides to ride a bike through. Thanks for the traffic tutorial ZG.
I'd say that how to feel safe is just to do it and figure out what makes you feel most comfortable. I started off on low traffic four lane roads or two lane roads with a bike lane on each side and moved my way up to highways (not interstates) and heavily trafficked streets.
What makes me feel most safe is to ride in such a way as to not be a nuisance to drivers so as to give them no reasons for road rage; this includes 1. Getting off fast from stop lights 2. Rolling stops at stop signs when possible to keep momentum and take less time for those behind me 3. Staying as far right in the lane as is safe to ride or on the shoulder when available to allow easier passing 4. Using sidewalks if my presence on the road would cause traffic to get backed up (such as when there is not an easy way to pass).
It's different for everyone, but the more times you ride on road and don't die, the more comfortable you'll feel as your constant fear of getting hit slowly fades away.
Wanting to give my grown son my Giant Mtn. since I fixie now but worried about safety thanks for this.
Ha! I just gave my old man my mtb as I'm a roadie now. Im trying to provide an avenue to heart health.
If you havent given the kid the bike, i highly suggest it. I was given the mtb i had by my step father and it has definetlet changed my life for the better. Although its also given me an expensive hobby!
glad I watched this, had no clue about the road law. gonna ride on the road now.
Over the years I've noticed more close calls wearing dark clothing. Even with a bright orange bike and flashing day lights this seems to hold true. I ride the same with a front brake as brakeless. One exception last week was hitting 30 mph briefly and knowing I'd have to stop. The brake was used to ride reasonably dangerous. With the larger cog on the other side I would have been able to stop without the brake.
In my early 20's I rode sport bikes (motorcycles) for years, and drive manual only, so my attention/reaction reflexes on the road are very high. Having said that, I've done "dangerous" so when I'm out riding my bike, I'm trying to avoid being careless to try and look like some kind of badass. Ride safe.
Present from Philippines. Keep safe Zachy!!!
that protective charm in your backpack insert looks sweet!
i personally ride a bmx bike but i still love all your vids
Shitty life cycling tip, carry a small piece of porcelain. It instantly spiderwebs tempered glass without much force. I wouldn't recommend this unless you can outride them when they running after you.
Another tip: Go find a path or area where cars can't go through. 12mph is pretty damn fast when you're running but it's not very much for a bike but be sure to accelerate quickly.
I love your videos!
Thank you for saying "Nobody is out to kill you." So many UA-camrs are into fear-mongering and saying "Assume that drivers are out to kill you" when that's a horrible mindset.
There is crazy out there. Not that its trying to kill you, but it might not care if you're in the way, or even notice.
Ive seen too much. I consider certain places good for cycling on the road and certain places bad. Most of LA is bad for cycling on the streets. Your life might be in the hands of an illegal immigrant joy riding a stolen vehicle and they're coming up on you from behind weaving through traffic with 0 concern for any law.
If you go to Manhattan traffic is so busy cars are fighting for inches while cyclists split car lanes in any lane, not just the right lane. I once got hit by someone on manhattan and they brushed it off like meh no biggie, the rental companies just expect it to happen. Toss bikes in that mix? Not me. I saw a city bus intentionally destroy a 7 series bmw for trying to play traffic games and it didnt even stop, just continued on its way.
In my experience, the heavier the traffic, the less safe things are. People are too preoccupied with their self centered intentions to be fully aware of whats going on at times. I would hate to throw a bike in that mix.
I do ride my bike on streets unabashedly. I just try to be smart about it and use other means when possible. I also think this is why gravel riding has gained popularity. Riding trails is so much nicer than roadways.
Never owned a car, rode road/fixed/commute in Chicago for 14 years; super comfy in traffic. I don't disagree with anything you said, but I feel like you drifted into a lot of describing what it's like for you, in a way that doesn't help somebody uncomfortable get from here to there. Rivers don't stop, and if you feel like it's a problem to just stop and wait at an intersection, you're going to be uncomfortable (or at least unsafe) until you develop those super powers of perception. People who are new to it should pretend they're in a car, move in straight lines, stay visible and predictable, and do way less worrying about what drivers will think about it. As long as they can see you, and you're following traffic rules like any driver, you're good.
What are you talking about? Drivers DO stop. They stop all the time. They have this thing called a brake pedal that they hit whenever they have to slow down and stop for something that is right in front of them. They do this automatically, almost without thinking.
Super powers of perception are required while stopped at a traffic light?
How have i survived thus far?
I think OP needs to learn how to drive.
Hey Zach, I see your skin has cleared up substantially. Nice! Cheers.
Nice informative video! Very happy to conclude all the things do not apply to the traffic situation in Holland 🍀🍀
This spring I tried riding fixed gear for first time(s). I decided just to try. Once I took off it felt so natural that I completed my usual route. Slowing down using legs (just slowing, not skidding) seemed so easy that I did again and again and for first time it was too much, after ride knee was sensitive for several days - probably because I had sudden deceleration when weekend cyclist drove in front of me without looking around. Next time I spun without back-pressure and no leg discomfort. Fixed gear is one crazy substance, I must admit. I don't say Im converted as in some situations freewheel is useful to adjust pedal position. But oh so nice.
Nice video man. Spot on. Just a couple of observations if you'll indulge me...
Push-bike helmets don't offer the protection you claim. They're specced & designed to protect against a low speed *fall* nothing else. Volvo tested them & found they offer no use in a collision. Chris Bordman has a lot of the detail on this.
The other point is that (in the UK at least) cyclist have the right to use the road, drivers don't. They only have permission. If I don't have a valid license, insurance, VED & MOT then I can't drive whereas no one can refuse me access to the road as a cyclist.
Anyway, enough of that. Thanks for the video & keep up the tip-top work! ✊
Helmets help for a limited number of circumstances, which is better than nothing. And a fall is more common than a collision (more people die from that than collisions.) A motorcycle helmet is really a better option and IMO looks cooler.
kind of wish I could do this.
since most of the cagers in my area are hicks, I've been almost hit to many times.
do they hate us because we are free? not locked in a box and can feel the wind on our face?
Alway like the ride while chatting videos..
I totally agree 🙌🏻
Funny story: What got me to wear my helmet is one day when i was zipping down a hill on a back road, my hat went flying off behind me. I had to go back, pick it up, some guy was like "you lost your hat!" (thanks captain obvious) and then I was like well... that sucks... guess I will wear my helmet now. What solidified it for me was when I remembered I had some heavy metal stickers from an event I went to months ago, so I put them on my helmet and made it my own, it is now a form of self expression that I love wearing. I ride an e- city bike so I use my still in excellent shape skateboard helmet, but I wanna get a custom mountain bike helm next.
I never ride on the road like how a car uses the lanes. To use the lanes the same way, in the same space, as a car, is to also trust 'X' number of people to fall in line and not falter. I never expect cars to turn, stop, slow, or even see me. I choose to be like water, and heed the tides. Experience will turn smooth into fast, all while flowing like water. The cars will do what they do and I change my technique based on what MIGHT happen. Never expect anything from a car on the road, or anyone with anything for that matter. You got dope vids doe ✌bikelife!
I hit used to riding in traffic by just riding in traffic. Well my friend forced me to stop riding my bike on the sidewalk and start riding in the road to be faster. It’s been 2 years and now I only ride on the road and understand how much more fun it is.
Your neighborhood is so nice! I wanna bike in a place like that unlike here in Philippines
Even though I ride my cycle regularly in a small city. I always plan my route.It's probably #1 for safety (after helmets), the other is to build in time to get somewhere. Bikes are slower and rushing to get somewhere makes people take more risks.
10:28 what's your gear ratio on this bike?
whoop whop
I crashed twice into others, once due to my exterme high top speed, the other time because of riding fast on the side walk. I bike over 40 years. If you don't do extreme things, you are fine (in my country)
Thats the Spirit
Damn! I just went onto traffic because I said go big or go home. Lol 😂 I will try doing this, too.
We need to build more dedicated bike trails in the US!
for me it isn't 99% of traffic that wigs me out, it's the work trucks with those open trailers on the back that have random items hanging off well into the snag your shirt space.
dude keep making videos they are very good
The privilege to be Dutch... Just ride without any worry ever
I wish the pavement was this smooth from what i see in this video.
Really need this one especially the road in my area is under construction 🥴
It is not “illegal to ride a bike on the sidewalk in the USA”. Each State has their own laws. In my State it is absolutely legal to ride a bike on sidewalks. In fact, most States either permit riding on sidewalks or have no law prohibiting riding on a sidewalk. I found 3 that prohibit riding on sidewalks. Google is your friend (sometimes😊).
It's not illegal everywhere in the US to bike on the sidewalk. I know off-hand that MA and CT both permit biking on the sidewalk unless the local municipality prohibits it. I think NY state is the same, but it's prohibited in NYC
I leisure ride in a rural area or bike paths rarely on the street if I had to ride in a city I would definitely get bike rage 😅
Ive been clipped soo many times, even in the bike lane. So I had to resort to riding against traffic in the bike lane to avoid it, or on the sidewalk when there is no bike lane. I know its illegal but I'd rather get a ticket then broken bones and damaged bike. I've never had any drivers stop, they probably didn't even notice and I couldn't get a license plate so the police couldn't do anything.
09:00 Sick shot, bro
I find you a unique great videographer , please forgive my spelling , another is " the Wizard of oh ."
The problem I have with wearing a helmet is that I snowboard everyday in the winter without one unless im hitting a really big jump but even then im still taking that shit off to film and skateboard during the dry without one so ima have to live on the un reasonably dangerous side I guess but I sware I never hit my head tuck and roll
I am impressed by your proficiency with the selfie stick. That must have taken a lot of practice to perfect. At first, I thought you were being videoed by someone on a bike in front of you. Then you had a view high up from the side, which made me suspect a drone. Then I noticed the shadow of the selfie stick extending from your left hand. This must have taken some careful planning. In the early shots, the sun is at your back, so the shadow of the selfie stick is out of the frame. In most of the later shots, you are riding in the shade, so the shadow is visible only intermittently.
Yo zack you should make a what to do when you get hit by a car video. Just had my first hit yesterday and when I searched the topic on YT I didn’t find much. I think this would be a good video for all us cyclists
Ride my bike down the same street every day coming home from work (19th st) 👌🏼
Bycycles have to stop at stop signs too...
Hi Zack!
I use both brakes on my Wabi fixed gear so I can feel more confident in traffic.
The one thing I would add is if you want to be respected by drivers and treated equally as cars, we all need to also follow the rules of the road while in traffic. Too many cyclists just run stop signs and red lights and weave in and out of stopped traffic, then get pissed when someone runs them off the road or does not yield right of way to them. Be a respectful and courteous cyclist, it will not stop people from being an asshole, but it makes you a more responsible and safer rider with more integrity than the douches that I see out there.
Can you make a video on flat tire prevention/tips? Road cycling in my city gives me heart attacks with all the potholes
Use good tubes. I like michelin airstops personally. Q-Tubes and Kendas (both by kenda...) as well as random chinese tubes are garbage.
Gatorskins my dude
@@ME-hm7zm got my first flat on gatorskins a few days ago after hitting a pretty big bump 😂 took forever tho. They can take a serious beating
@@nica711 Indeed; I've intentionally run over broken glass with mine a few times now and have had no issue.
It's technically against the law to ride bicycles on the sidewalk.
And it's probably the only law on the books that's objectively safer to break than it is to obey.
yep
Depends on where you live
13:04 I can’t even get close to the traffic speed
You’re killing me with these ads in your videos dude
yo what 360 cam u use?
Haha look it's me 12:36