Rant: A driver yelled something at me that actually made me think

I was biking home from work in Portland last Tuesday, going up a pretty steep hill on 12th Avenue. I was in the bike lane, moving slow but steady. A guy in a big white truck pulled up next to me at a red light and rolled down his window. I braced for the usual angry honk or something, but he just said, 'Hey, your rear light is out.' I looked back and sure enough, the little red light was dead. I just said thanks, and he nodded and drove off when the light changed. It was such a simple thing, but it stuck with me because I was expecting a fight and got help instead. I replaced the batteries that night. It made me wonder how many other small safety things I miss. Has anyone else had a surprisingly nice moment with a driver that made you check your gear?

3 comments

3 Comments

jade_bell28d ago

Yeah, that rear light thing is so easy to miss. I check my front light before I roll out, but the back one? You just forget it's even there. I started doing a quick walk-around check every few days, like you would with a car. Kick the tires, make sure both lights are on, check the brake pads aren't worn down to nothing. It takes thirty seconds and saves you from being invisible at night.

mia_thompson1328d ago

Walk around checks are overkill. Most lights last months on a charge. Just tap the button when you start riding. If it's dead, you'll notice when you lean the bike against something and the red glow isn't there. Brake pads squeal way before they're dangerous. This whole routine turns a simple ride into a chore.

taylor_mitchell8010d agoTop Commenter

Thirty seconds seems quick until you're running late for work. How do you remember to do the walk around on those hectic mornings when you just need to get out the door?