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@biciplata
Just some tips for you as a new rider:
1. Make sure you signal (ring your bell) when you are several seconds behind the person walking. That's 50 feet or more behind them. Usually I find people react negatively if you signal when you are too close. You have to give the person time to go through the thought process of "oh a bell," "oh a bike is coming," "oh they are going to pass me."

2. I would just make it a habit of always ringing your bell, even if it is clear. A quick 'ding' or 'ding ding' is all that's needed; you're just letting the person know you are there.

3. Make sure you are giving the person enough space (3+ feet) AND regulating your speed for the amount of space you are giving them. On a wide trail, move as far to the left as you can while passing. On a smaller path in a park, you should slow down a lot if you can't give the person 3 feet, go around them slowly, and thank them as you go by.

There are always going to be some people out there who react negatively, but I find that the vast majority of people do not react negatively, unless you're doing something wrong (probably signaling too late).

by MLD on Jun 14, 2012 10:18 am • link • report