The Scariest Wheels On the Road
Let’s start here: I like bicycles. I like that they offer low-cost transportation. I like that they don’t pollute the air. I like that they’re quieter than cars and trucks. And I like that they add stylish, gliding lines to urban traffic patterns.
I have a problem, though, with bicyclists. Some, anyway.
My problem, specifically, is that bicyclists are generally more menacing than pedestrians (given speed and weight) and more unpredictable than cars and trucks. Essentially, they can knock you over like a bowling pin and you might never see it coming. (My record: struck once, narrowly missed multiple times.) As a result, they make me feel less safe as a New York City pedestrian.
Problematic bicyclists fall into lots of categories. For the purposes of this post, I selected five and illustrated them with photos, below. These categories are based on my own logic and don’t necessarily reflect laws or safety standards. (If you’re interested, the city has posted a list of safety tips.)
OK, now the photos.
Category 1: Intersection Busters (Biking Against the Light)
Photograph by Josh Robinson
Category 2: Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop (Cars Static, Bikes In Motion)
Photographs by Josh Robinson
Category 3: Sidewalk Jockeys (When the Streets Can’t Contain Them)
Photograph by Josh Robinson
Category 4: Wrong-Way Riders (Slicing Against the Traffic Grain)
Photograph by Josh Robinson
Category 5: Yes, I Am In the Middle of the Road (Is That a Problem?)
Photograph by Josh Robinson
Street transportation is always a hot-button issue in New York, so I suspect some will be with me and others will think I’m a whiny walker. Please let me know what you think in the comments section.
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Those in midtown, who try to whistle or shout their way through a pedestrian mob, are really annoying.
Perhaps another series could chronicle the Biker vs. Cabby war that is ongoing on Gotham’s streets every day. Chains and tire irons are the weapons of choice.
It’s more intense than UFC or whatever that sport is.
It’s terrifying and really dangerous for anyone trying to drive safely and lawfully in NYC, as I do. I’ve had to suddenly swerve away from a dangerous cyclist — into the next lane, with no time even check the rearview mirror or blind spot.
What if I hit a pedestrian? Another car? When I verbally confronted one cyclist he slammed the side of my car really hard with his hand. Arrogant, dangerous fools. I cycle, too, but this selfish behavior is insanity. And the cops are where?
[...] For all you walkers out there — especially in New York — see if you recognize any of these pedestrian personalities. (Also see my take on bicyclists.) [...]
[...] The first tackled bicyclists. [...]