The hall of shame: 10 of the dumbest things that some cyclists do while biking in cities

by Larry Humber

Spend a few days tooling around on your bike in any big city and you are sure to see some incredibly dumb things. All too often, it’s not just a matter of riders putting themselves in danger, though. Some of the dumbest things cyclists do put others at risk as well.

Here are 10 to make your head shake, but feel free to add to the list.

1) Riding fast on the sidewalk, even dodging in and out of pedestrian traffic. Yes, there are times when sidewalks make sense, but always remember that you are on foreign ground, so exercise caution.

2) Wearing headphones — an often deadly mistake. Would you ride blindfolded? Hearing is right up there with sight when it comes to avoiding accidents.

3) Not wearing a helmet, because you aren’t infallible – and neither are motorists – and eventually, you will take a tumble. You’ll wish you were wearing one then.

4) Passing on the inside of another cyclist. It may work for Mark Cavendish during a mass sprint, but it’s hardly a good idea on busy city streets, where many of the riders are far from expert and easily spooked.

5) Riding too close to parked cars. Door prizes are readily available for the unwary.

6) On winding bike paths with blind corners, failing to ease up when cornering. Riders may be approaching from the other direction, which can lead to some nasty spills. Help may be hard to come by if it’s a little out of the way, too.

7) Running red lights and stop signs. This isn’t the Avengers, kids. We’re far from invincible.

8) Riding after dark without lights or reflectors. This is good practice only if you are seeking an early grave.

9) Drinking and riding, especially after dark. That’s not only dumb, it’s verging on insanity.

10) Making snide remarks and finger gestures when someone points out that you’ve done something dumb. If anything, be apologetic. Why make matters worse?