Why Do Cyclists Ride in the Road?

[@Vince1648]

As a cyclist, I'm so fortunate to live in the Netherlands.

[@MarkBurghouwt]

The no hills part is really boring though

[@12dougreed]

@@MarkBurghouwt Is it???

[@tahimig1]

@@MarkBurghouwt There are hills. Nothing apline, but theyll get your attention. But there are some seriously gnarly bridges that will make you wish for death. Not to mention the near constant heavy winds.

[@MarkBurghouwt]

Leander true but you dont have big and long decents here like in france for example.

[@12dougreed]

Well ding Fing dong for you. Has Holland taken up dressing for the occasion? Nope don't think so! If you have I would be disappointed

[@nictaylor6558]

Another element worth mentioning: The paradox of the bike lane. It's where all the broken glass and debris from the road creeps to, so it's quite inhospitable to bikes.

[@JAlexanderCurtis]

This is a really good point. I have been yelled at for not being far enough over to the shoulder before, when it was super unsafe to ride due to glass, gravel, debris, etc. If I could driver further away from cars, trust me I would... but if I am driving in the road and not the shoulder it is because as unsafe as the road is, it is somehow safer than the shoulder.

[@bigk4755]

So often the bike lanes are treated like shoulders and they are only swept once annually by street sweepers, if that.

[@martinkent333]

@@JAlexanderCurtis What shithole do you live in? Detroit?

[@way7952]

It's crazy. Like I'm usually pretty far to the right within safe limits but whenever a bike lane pops up there are rocks random debris, think I saw shattered glass. I can't be crazy right?

[@guysmiley4830]

You know what doesn't have that stuff? Bike paths

[@peterdowney484]

Husband, father, trucker, motorcyclist, cyclist. Nothing gives me more pleasure than blocking or slowing traffic to allow cyclists their share of the road. As Phil states, "a couple seconds" out of your day to not hurt someone. It's sooo hard lifting that right foot off the accelerator

[@erikmiller2317]

I've been road biking the past few weeks while the National Forests were closed here in CA. One day, I had three separate people yell at me (two of them in the other lane going to opposite direction) even though I was firmly in the nice wide bike lane. Believe me, I would have much preferred to be on my MTB. That night, I read a study that found 49% of non-cyclists viewed cyclists as less than human. Everyone needs to just simmer down and find some compassion and empathy for each other. Thanks, Phil for speaking out!

[@martinkent333]

Karens and male Karens simply love to share - because cyclists usually wear short pants and seem silly. Kids, if your folks ignore traffic laws, supersoak their crotches and carry adult diapers - until you own their negligent asses. OK?

[@mungolikescandy3270]

“get off the road!!” “alright how about investing in separate infrastructure for cyclists, cycle lanes or cycle paths?” “why should my tax money be spent on that?/ if the are roads are narrowed to make cycle lanes it’ll lead to congestion” “well, what do you want cyclists to do?” “get off the road!!” repeat ad infinitum

[@eddesong]

i'd like to imagine this exchange happening in a 3 second window as the car is aggressively speeding by. or if it's at a stoplight, i see the two parties becoming british old men, regardless of their actual gender + race, and speaking in super fancy high class british english

[@CoderShare]

"Get a car like a real adult" - I'm sure was said shortly after

[@adamt195]

@@CoderShare Which is just more congestion..... Bike lanes actually save everyone money (and the planet) I was actually riding to work last year. Dude in a pickup had to wait like 10 seconds to pass me safely. Then yelled at me at the next red light because if I hadn't slowed him down he "could have made it". Told me to buy a moped, "it would cost less". I then told him that the bike I was riding was actually given to me for free and all I'm trying to do is get to work just like him.

[@Accounting4Cycling]

"stay in your lane!" When there's no bike lane, my favorite.

[@BenDover-os2lj]

How about stay as far to the right as you can instead of riding in the center of the lane in a 65 zone with a holier than thou shit eating smirk on your stupid faces?

[@akay4500]

It really is so simple, which makes me ask; why does this conversation have to be repeated so many times..? Great job explaining Phil! 🥰

[@taliawtf6944]

Because it's not 1915... Cars go much faster than bikes can and the speed limits are higher than what a human can do on a bike. The laws are out dated and frankly dangerously so, I'd rather not see you splattered on the road just as I would not want to see a skateboarded turned into a road waffle. If your hobby didn't affect the other people on the road I'd say sure you take that risk if you honestly enjoy it and know what your doing. That's not the case here as you riding in the road means other people will share the consequences of your choices same as if some moron drinks and drives or has the idea he can run as fast as a car.

[@mosslimbayter277]

Yesterday rush hour traffic was bad and drivers were being aggressive so I rode on a 8 foot wide asphalt sidewalk that had maybe 1 pedestrian every 200 yards. A walker ahead heard my bell and moved from the right to the center of the sidewalk and extended both arms straight out in order to claim 6 feet of the sidewalk leaving only 1 foot on either side unclaimed. I moved to the grass on his right and as I was passing him 8 feet from the sidewalk he yelled that I should be on the road. This time I decided to stop and discuss it with him. I explained that I was on the mostly unoccupied sidewalk because the traffic was dangerous. - Too bad, sidewalks are for walking. Cyclists put the lives of pedestrians at risk." Okay... how pedestrians are killed by cyclists a year? - "I don't know, probably not many." That's a close guess, the actual number is zero." How many cyclists are killed or seriously injured by vehicles a year? - "Probably a lot." That's right; a lot. So now you understand why I ride on empty sidewalks when road traffic is bad. - "Maybe... but it's still illegal." Yes it is, and I'd rather pay a ticket than get run over by an aggressive cyclist hater in a 4,000 pound vehicle. - "Whatever... it's still illegal for you to cycle on a sidewalk." Okay. Let's say the law said you and your kid had to walk along a 3 foot wide unmarked edge of the busy road. Would you feel safe? - "Of course not, that would be stupid." So would you break the law and walk on the bike path? - "I guess." Why do you think I should be forced to cycle on the edge of the road that you just said is too dangerous for you to walk on? - "I guess; as long as cyclists keep a safe distance from pedestrians..." I agree. And as long as walkers also keep a safe distance from cyclists who signal their approach with a bell... Hands got shook and all was good. This guy's attitude on cyclists has flipped 180 degrees. If we're lucky he'll explain the logic to other walkers.

[@krane15]

One word of advice, don't ever try to use logic to explain away an intentional violation of the laws. There are only two valid excuses: 1) an emergency, and 2) to avoid an obstacle. Admit you're wrong and apologize.

[@mosslimbayter277]

@@krane15 1) Avoiding a dangerous situation is another valid reason. The road is narrow so the only safe way for me would be to take the entire lane which doesn't go well when done for over a mile on a busy road. The cop who sees the situation makes the decision as to levy a fine or not; I'll accept the cop's decision because every cop I've interacted with has been fair. 2) There's no reason for me to apologize in this situation because while passing the walker I was on the grass of the field 8 feet right of the sidewalk. Drivers don't want us on the road and pedestrians refuse to share 8 foot wide sidewalks. Drivers whine when they have to share, drivers whine when the city proposes bike lanes.

[@krane15]

@@mosslimbayter277 Facts: 1) Sidewalks are for pedestrians. So even though cyclist may use the sidewalk -- except where prohibited -- you will almost always lose that fight. 2) Cyclist may legally use the road -- except where prohibited -- with all the responsibilities, rights and privileges. That's true for every state in the Union. Cops cannot ticket you for using the roadway, provided you're not obstructing the flow of traffic. I had a cop try to convince me I shouldn't use the road but I ignored that completely. I also has a cop try to ticket me for taking the lane, but once I quoted him the code, he acquiesced. If the road is too narrow to share you can legally take the lane until it is save to do otherwise. Most narrow roads I cycle typically open up after a block or two. But if there's a line of cars behind me for more than a block, I'll pull to the side and let them pass. But that rarely happens. I cycle in the city so rural streets might be different.

[@mosslimbayter277]

@@krane15 For sure. I ride no less than 25 miles every day of the year and double that once a week. I know all the laws and what rights cyclists have. I have a few of the laws printed out so I can hand them to drivers when I catch up to them at the light 30 seconds after they give me the bird. The problem is 95% of drivers don't know it's legal and safer all around for cyclists to take the lane in narrow situations so they go into a rage when I take the lane for a half blocks section where the road narrows then they zoom past and wait at the light as I pass them. I would guess that probably 70% of drivers don't even know where the right side of the car is on the road so they don't know if they missed the cyclist by 1 foot or 4. I always thought it odd that drivers will go into road rage when slowed down for a half block by a bike but not when a city bus stops for 15 seconds on every block or when a city lawn mower drives down the road at half the speed of a bike. I've never had a cop even ask or comment to me for riding on the streets, closed streets etc. I do stop at traffic lights and stop signs that are in medium or high traffic areas. I slow way down or yield at stop signs in quiet residential areas, cops who've seen me didn't seem to care.

[@dlevi67]

@@krane15 If you are roadkill, you won't explain anything to anyone. I don't think the post was about "what's legal"; we all agree that legally bicycles should go on roads or on cycle paths. Equally legally, drivers should not squeeze you, should not overtake dangerously, should not open their doors in your face, should not throw cigarette butts or beer cans out of the window - I see a lot more of those behaviours than I see cyclist riding on pedestrian sidewalks, and I live in Europe where cyclists seem to be significantly more in numbers and significantly better treated than in my (admittedly limited) cycling experience in the US... I think engaging with people and explaining is not a bad thing to do. It doesn't change legality (at least in the short term), but it may change attitudes, and the law with them in the long term. One of the proposed changes to the Highway Code in the UK at the moment is to make it _recommended_ for cyclists to travel side-by-side on narrow roads. Why? Because even though it may be slightly frustrating for drivers, it's a lot safer for both the cyclists and the drivers... if the drivers understand why it's done.

[@johnpark4577]

this guy, bragging about how he gets free beer from motorists during bike rides

[@nathanwoodruff9422]

I get free coke bottles, Starbucks coffee, most juices that come in plastic bottles, and even some full aluminum cans. All free. The last Free Monster Energy Drink, the 24oz can, ended up sending me to the hospital with a bloody nose. I get this free stuff about once every 2 months. I do get some insane people screaming at me to get the F' on the sidewalk. When I catch them at the next stop light, I yell and scream at them to go rob a bank. They then tell me that robbing a bank is illegal. I then say, "Well, Mr F' Genius, so is riding on the sidewalk." I then say "It is called a side *WALK* and not a side *RIDE*. F'n dumbass" and ride off.

[@markconnelly1806]

@@nathanwoodruff9422 where do you live

[@nathanwoodruff9422]

@@markconnelly1806 Atlanta Georgia. Were do you live?

[@markconnelly1806]

@@nathanwoodruff9422 Thousand Oaks, CA

[@nathanwoodruff9422]

@@markconnelly1806 Do you get the same free stuff thrown at you?

[@MrGoodaches]

It would be helpful if KZbin would put this on everyone's homepage. Cyclists already know these frustrating truths. It's everyone who never clicked a cycling link before that needs to see this.

[@Lancew4]

‘Motorists you might need to deal with bike legal. They won’t be so nice’. Love that.

[@sirairness24]

Everything he said is 100% completely true. Preach Brotha!! Its not like most cyclists want to be on the road with cars. Most of the time, when you are, you don't have a choice. Trust me if cyclists could have it their way, 100% car free open roads where you don't have to worry about getting hit or making some jerk 3-5 seconds late! Phil speaks the truth!!

[@ironmiron08]

Not even 3-5 seconds late. That's the super cool thing about gas. They just have to press a little more on the pedal for a short while and they are exactly where they would have been.

[@carlostorres-rivera7200]

Hence, the reason why gravel is exploding the way it is.

[@BenDover-os2lj]

Trust me if motorists could have it their way , 100% bicycle free open roads where you don’t have to worry about being held up by some spandex wearing ass clown riding in the lane obstructing traffic by riding 50 or more mph under the speed limit.

[@lilcvbballfreak]

Ben Dover seriously though, all of these comments I’m reading by cyclists here are just astonishing. Of course motorists want bicycle lanes, I don’t want to have to avoid cyclists going 25mph below the speed limit just as much as they don’t want to have cars whiz by them. Let me reiterate to all cyclists reading this: WHEN YOU RIDE YOU BIKE ON A PUBLIC ROAD OUTSIDE OF A BIKE LANE YOU ARE ENDANGERING YOURSELF AND EVERYONE ELSE ON THE ROAD.

[@involuntarysoul3867]

@@lilcvbballfreak just spill drinks on them as you drive by, it is super fun to see their reaction on the mirror

[@Alistair_Spence]

SO MANY good points raised here. This video was very well done and I will be forwarding it in the future to people who need to have this stuff explained to them. Thanks for doing this👍

[@martinkent333]

Most humans are weasels and traffic laws have no effect on folks with zero ethics and zero consciences. Two wheeled weasels and four wheeled weasels merely need their kids to supersoak their parents' crotches, whenever they break traffic laws. Deweaseling society is easy, with Autonomous Traffic Safety.

[@stevegeek]

Where I live (UK) there are several “cycle lanes” nearby, but they are mostly pedestrian footpaths with bikes painted on them, often strewn with debris and various obstacles such as lamp posts. I nearly came off one time when using the “cycle lane” because a dog walker had their lead right across the path! In places the main roads do have areas designated for bikes but they are never more than a few metres long and are just so the local council can say they are being “green”. With the COVID lockdown we had a great opportunity to extend the cycle network in the UK, but no, that would have been too sensible. I despair.

[@johnhayes1641]

Brilliant. "I won't get mad at you in the car for a guy who threw a beer at me three years ago."

[@euanuglowisdead]

and yet John Malkovich still holds a grudge to this day...

[@mtbyumyum]

YES YES YES!!! So glad you made this video... I've been meaning to make a video like this for some time now. Glad you took the time. Thank you!!

[@siskokidd]

Any video that includes a slav squat, even in a thumbnail image, gets a thumbs up from me! Those roads along PCH? Yep, been there done that. The secret is riding as fast as possible, blinky lights, and not moving in the direction where the sun will blind the car drivers coming up behind you. That means head west in the AM, and east in the evening.

[@stevek8829]

From the East here but I thought PCH went North and South like the coastline.

[@siskokidd]

@@stevek8829 Much of Malibu, and the stretch of coast he rides on to get to Malibu, is south facing. Look on a map to see what I mean.

[@xtra9996]

Here in Germany bike lanes aren't so rare, but more often than not they're in a horrible condition, hardly usable with a carbon road bike. So very often I end up riding on the road as well.

[@rawveganperformance]

Genau. Und dann ist man trotzdem der doofe. So oder so. Man muss einfach ein dickes Fell haben um jeden Tag auf der Straße zu fahren, besonders in DE wo die Menschen es gewohnt sind 200+ auf der Autobahn zu schrubben.

[@killoflen]

Yeah, same issue in Belgium. Problem is that they then expect you to ride on those lanes and yell at you when you dont, but you're better off riding a MTB on those bike paths...

[@doooogiexD]

In Scotland/U.K. we also have lots of bike paths, they are in generally reasonable condition but full of pedestrians walking on them (walking dogs commuting etc) so it’s not safe to be doing 30-40 kph down them most of the time. Also, they’ll probably be covered in glass

[@likelight6495]

Even seperated bike lanes with great surfaces on country roads in Germany are often not usable for fast road riding. They make ridiculous 90° turns, have curbs or are contaminated by tractors... especially nasty after a downhill turn. And the most dangerous scenario is at junctions, cars go all the way to the front to the main road without looking if there is a cyclist coming on the bike lane. Those were the most dangerous moments on my road bike, even compared to all the descending in the alps.

[@AB-fh9zh]

@@likelight6495 Right. And most of the German bike paths I've seen are shared pedestrian/cyclist paths, not the best mix either. Having said that, my experience with riding on the road instead has been generally positive (mostly Nordrhein-Westfalen).

[@Socaltrainwatcher]

Phil you get yelled at because you ride in LA. I love when a driver yells/ makes some comment as they pass me, when I'm on my bike, only for me to ride past them when they're stuck in traffic. Great video by the way.

[@sambrown1779]

You're awesome. My favourite channel ✌️

[@sbenard4]

Thanks for doing this video. Almost every ride vehicles will challenge my space on the road. Most concerning is when a car rolls through a stop sign doing a right turn into the lane I'm riding in. I'm always trying to make eye contact to confirm people notice me.

[@wesk2675]

I recently witnessed some jackass who didn't bother to look over his shoulder knock some bicyclist of his bike while I was at a red light. The bicyclist managed to get up just fine but that doesn't change the fact that the yokel who knocked him over was starting to drive away and he was warned not to leave (clearly a hit and run). Hopefully he caught his license plate. I don't care how experienced of a driver someone is or if a swarm of bicyclists are taking up all lanes like it's Tour de France, you NEVER in a million years fuck with a bicyclist and if you knock him over, take responsibility like a man and let him get your info and insurance because that is on you (the driver). I am NOT a cyclist in any way shape or form but it doesn't take one to know that you need to give them space and never ever to fuck with them.

[@matt.eggleton]

Saved for frequent future response posts. Thank you!

[@fieldwalker]

Awesome video Phil, thanks

[@mkoschara]

It's great to watch these videos and see how much the roads have changed since when I was living in Glendale (1986).

[@Trillia750]

As a motorcyclist I've always been a little daunted at the prospect of riding a bicycle on the road. I see how crazy the cars are all the time. While you have to be 100% on your game to ride a motorcycle safely, to a large extent you have control over the way you interact with traffic. It always seemed to me that with a bicycle you'd be much more at the mercy of traffic especially on many of the rural roads where I live. In any event I get angry when I see cyclists of either bi or motor variety engage in stupid stuff on the roadway - invites disaster, gives the responsible ones a bad name. All that said, I'm getting into bicycling now. So far I'm sticking to easy trails and roads with slow traffic speeds and or lots of shoulder. I do love it so far! Stay safe!

[@yilmanbabilonia]

I don't wanna be on the road with cars. I even ride 3 miles out of my way just to stay on a protected bike lane. I must admit that in my firsts years commuting I would really get bike rage and confront drivers on their 2 ton machines. Not anymore. I want to stay alive.

[@Dakota_B_]

I'm glad to see something like bike legal exists.

[@tonygSDWR]

I assume Phil's account is viewed mostly by avid cyclists, like myself, who experience these issues as well. Hopefully this video reaches drivers that could use the info. Thanks Phil!

[@downesdesign]

Drivers that 'could use' this info should not have licenses to operate a deadly machine. #justsaying

[@TheNightwalker247]

Sharing is caring. As in this video and the road

[@martinkent333]

Two wheeled assholes or four wheeled assholes, many folks have zero ethics and no conscience, which makes pedestrians experience walking - as a contact sport. The elderly love this. Yup.

[@taliawtf6944]

It's not 1915 anymore cars go much faster than cycles, you can't keep up with traffic to a safe degree. The laws are dangerously outdated, stay out of the road for your own safety. Just find a park to ride in or somewhere other than the road I REALLY don't want to run you over or see you get run over.

[@guysmiley4830]

The streets aren't for sports. Find a bike path unless you don't mind being a first class A hole

[@jamiepaolinetti5087]

Ha! That was classic! Thanks man. I will give you the old-man-surfer comment, "you should have been here yesterday!" I love seeing the footage of my backyard. I moved to Venice Beach in 1989 from Newport Beach and then spent the next 15 years and my entire pro career riding in LA, most times up PCH to the Santa Monica Mountains, doing huge loops up, over and around out to the valley and back over to come home down the coast with a tits tailwind in the afternoon. All the old crew who were there knew that we would meet at the CIRCLE in Venice every morning at 9am and head up the coast to wherever! Daily rides could see groups of 20-30 guys start the rides. That was some of the best training in the world and hundreds of days of pure unforgettable friends and freedom. Where else can you find a 3000 foot mountain range with 15 connected canyons perfectly paved of up to 10 miles in length and 20% grades sitting on the pacific ocean with 75 degree temps year around? Back then there were no cell phones, no ridiculously self-important distracted drivers, no GPS's, almost no traffic during the day, wide shoulders, great conversations with the boys, and drivers that would actually occasionally move over and give us a wide berth on PCH. We could do 3 hour loops in the canyons and never even see a car during our 5 hour rides where I never put a foot down, (okay, I might have rolled through a few red lights, so sue me). Anyway... Phil, those days and the freedom they gave us are long, long gone. Oh, don't you love progress! Ha! Be safe brother and get out of the city. LA's gone forever and no place any more for a bike rider of your talent.

[@markconnelly1806]

Still good if you do the Santa Monica mountains from the Conejo Valley. Avoid PCH south of Las Virgenes road and it's mostly good.

[@jamiepaolinetti5087]

@@markconnelly1806 Yep, those areas were some of my favorites even back in the day. I love all those canyons north of Malibu especially. Going up Deer Creek you think you're in another country! I miss it for sure.

[@odietamo9376]

As someone who has been riding a bike in San Francisco for many, many years-and is older than I care to define-that was a very interesting and well written comment.

[@ticklefritz5406]

Great video Phil. More stuff like this, you deliver the message well and this message needs to be heard

[@eolle43]

Thank you! I recently was yelled at for using a marked bike route. And I too have had beers and other items hurled at me.

[@guysmiley4830]

Sounds like riding a bike in the road is dangerous

[@tokajoke19]

Thanks for this one Phil, everyone stay safe out there, been hearing about lots of cycling accidents in NYC lately

[@devanishant]

Have you ever served in an infantry unit? Ever served in a forward area? Ever put your life in another man's hands...asked him to put his life in yours? We follow orders. We follow orders or men die. It's that simple. Are we clear? ARE WE CLEAR?!

[@RicBreestraat]

The timing of this video is eerie for me, as just yesterday, here in my country, two fellow cyclist were killed in a dead-on collision with a car that swerved into the opposite direction lane. To make it even more painful, yesterday happened to be the fifth anniversary of another cyclist fatality.

[@trooperthatsall5250]

Sorry to hear this my friend, do you know these fellow cyclists? where was this? ~ trooper

[@getoutsidewithsimon8180]

I've had a flip flop, a Slurpee thrown at me, and a 4Loco can, which was massive and heavy. Not to mention being called "queer", "fag", "spandex-jockey" (the latter I was okay with). All three times I was in a bike lane minding my own business. If I am at a light I make sure I'm not blocking anyone trying to turn right on a red, I give cars a wide of a berth as possible as I know I come off worse should we bump. I do what I can to keep away from cars. Drivers somehow think you're an idiot for being on a bike and therefore are a target of fun.

[@nickbowd]

Fantastic video!

[@SkepticCyclist]

This is your best video ever. Thank you for this

[@ticklefritz5406]

I also really like the one where Phil sets up a table in the spot where he got run off the road and shared his story for the benefit of all. I think this topic is what Phil ought to focus on when he retires from KOM's, he's got a knack for it

[@markj.a351]

I really wish i could interview drivers to know their thought process everytime they floor it to get past me with 5 cm of clearence only to slam their brakes on due to the clealry not moving cars infront.

[@ironmiron08]

Had a guy tell me "what the f is your problem??? I did not even hit you!!" Yeah, thanks for not killing me, I guess...

[@SnootchieBootchies27]

Trust me, you don't actually want to know what's going on inside these people's brain. It's just a bunch of petty ego borderline narcissism bullshit. Anyone that can empathize in any capacity doesn't lose it on people for things like this

[@cycologist7069]

A few years ago a women I worked with hit a cyclist while she was turning into the parking lot of our building where the office is. He was injured pretty severely (he can no longer walk). She was considered not to be at fault and has since sued him for the damage to her vehicle from hitting his bike (Basically a dent). Another time she hit a cyclist and the cyclist didn't survive. Again my coworker was deemed not at fault. Unfortunately these things happen so we always need to keep that in mind when riding on the road.

[@krane15]

The best drives look down the road and adjust for speed. Others stare only at the car directly in front of them, and don't brake until that car brakes. These are reactive individuals. They don't think that far ahead.

[@chileloco26]

this happened to me when doing a climb, there was plenty of space guy decides to try to kill me

[@cormacmcgeough2122]

Best part: If you just wait to safely pass a cyclist for 10 sec you can just use your gas pedal to catch up to the car in front of you again and youll get where you are going in the same amount of time.

[@stevek8829]

That requires a thought.

[@thomaswillemin9181]

I can always tell (or I think I can) what drivers are cyclists by the way they drive past me!

[@tammysalyer]

I got doored by a guy in a BMW a few years ago. Utterly destroyed his door hinge to the point that he couldn't even close the door. But rather than stand there and work it out with me, he actually jogged away and into a store to avoid me. My bike and I were fine, so I shrugged it off. Sadly, he's come to embody the type of experience and attitude I get from most high-end car drivers. Why is that? I've always wondered.

[@felixboeing9918]

It’s funny because most motorists don’t even know in states where it is a state law to stop at a cross walk that that law exists. I’m never surprised that they don’t know it’s illegal for bikes to ride on the sidewalk but this video is hilarious

[@suohbee]

the person waving at 2:09... bless them

[@TheFitDragon]

Amazing video!

[@Christian-sh9uh]

This should be shown on TV as a public information film.

[@gordontarpley]

That section of PCH from Temescal to Santa Monica always stresses me out.

[@andrerodriguez7603]

I have never cycled on PCH in the Santa Monica area. Looks way to scary. I risk my life enough as it is on city streets.

[@budaflash]

Early morning is cool but after like 9 its sketch.

[@gordontarpley]

@@budaflash 100%

[@krane15]

@@andrerodriguez7603 I did it once and my heart was beating the whole time. Never got up the gumption to try it a second time.

[@Mhatter12]

He speaks the truth.

[@martinkent333]

Most folks are weasels, so the two wheeled weasels and the four wheeled weasels are just missing a conscience and ethics. Deweaseling capital cities is a nice idea.

[@chilidogcats]

I told a friend who was active in trying to make road cycling safer that he needed to talk to concrete, asphalt, road paint, and road engineering companies about donating to the cause, and using those funds to lobby politicians to expand the roads and build better bike lanes. The gutter is not a bike lane. Building better bike lanes will boost the economy and provide thousands of long term good paying jobs. Except for the folks who make "Share the Road" signs.

[@carlosgaspar8447]

this psa has a 'happy days' kind of vibe to it like richie is trying to explain something to mr. cunningham.

[@gregswanson5069]

Well done! Hopefully it will make a difference.

[@kseger1970]

Thank you, Phil!

[@vincecaporale3544]

Sidewalks are only legal in Portland OR...where laws don’t apply

[@vincecaporale3544]

“Legal”

[@hambonec171]

Parked cars are the worst, especially along Highway One. I won’t even drive my car in the right lane where he was at for fear of knocking off a door that was thrown open without looking.

[@costasmandylor1565]

I'm Caucasian, I've never had to deal with racism...until I became a cyclist.

[@Bendwow]

As a fellow Caucasian you get discriminated against for every job interview/college application etc you apply for. Affirmative action is racial discrimination.

[@stevenr5149]

Bend12 Brilliant!! The billionaires can’t believe that the making the poor&middle class people fight each other-while they take all the $$$ is so easy! FYI buddy, you may be commenting on the wrong video. This is video about cycling.

[@Roq-stone]

Hahahaaa. You are comical! But I understand your comment.

[@johnsmithers284]

wait 5 years bud, or go to college

[@cristaldubragg3110]

lol "Caucasian problems", poor you

[@jonseltzer321]

This is great. There's a message here for cyclists too. A month or so ago, I saw a young kid on a bicycle riding against traffic!!!! Please don't do this. You might think this is better because you can see oncoming traffic. It's not!!! You're quite vulnerable to cars pulling out of driveways, cars making right turns, and more. As a long time cyclist, I always make sure to educate new cyclists. Let's all be safe! 😉

[@totallyjakereturns]

I'm an exceptionally careful and considerate cyclist... because...I've had all kinds of stuff thrown at me. I've been hit by cars 3 times simply because they "didn't see me". Most of those encounters were people who had passed by me and then turned in front of me. The yelling and screaming because they had to go around me, taking possibly 2 seconds out of their day, when they are in an internal combustion vehicle capable of speeds in excess of 150km/hr. And my favourite... "get off the road because my gas taxes paid for it". Yeah...cause I don't drive too right?!?! So, I ride with the simple rule that I expect every single driver is out to kill me. I don't mean is a danger to me...I assume they are trying to do me bodily harm. That way, I don't trust one of them. I take no action for granted. The result? I've ridden and trained for triathlons for almost 30 years, logging almost 250,000km and I'm still alive :-)

[@lilcvbballfreak]

I've been rear ended in my car because I didn't notice a cyclist with zero reflectors or lights on and braked around dusk time. Are you seriously surprised that motorists don't notice you in between the hundreds of cars/trucks/busses they encounter on a daily basis AND being about a tenth the size of a car???

[@totallyjakereturns]

@@lilcvbballfreak Yes...because the right place to ride is not "in" traffic or at dusk. I don't do those things either. I believe that cars don't see bikes because they are simply looking for cars. I've had multiple cars wait to turn left in front of me...then at the last second, turn, cutting in front of me and nearly ending my life. Why? They didn't see me for the simple reason I'm not a car. So my advice to cyclists is never assume any car can see you, or is even looking for you. They are only looking for other cars.

[@lilcvbballfreak]

totallyjakereturns you do realize when you’re driving a car, there are multiple CAR SIZED blind spots at any given moment. Is it really that hard for you to believe that you are routinely not seen on the road when riding a bicycle? Cmon...

[@totallyjakereturns]

@@lilcvbballfreak That comment implies to me that you don't ride a bicycle, or you really don't pay attention when you drive. You are making my case for me. I certainly would never rely on you to keep me safe. Particularly since there are not multiple car sized blind spots. There are 2 and they only really exist if you fail to shoulder check. Phil made this video in the hope that drivers like you would reach a new level of understanding and awareness. In your case, he failed.

[@lilcvbballfreak]

totallyjakereturns I said multiple referring to both blind spots and you’re trying to argue that 2 is not multiple...??? You cyclists really are as dense as I thought. Selfish, irresponsible cyclists that insist on biking on crowded roads without bike lanes, going 20mph under the speed limit endanger everyone else on the road. Go ride your bike literally anywhere else besides a main road and this discussion wouldn’t even exist. Also, he starts the video off saying it’s illegal to ride in sidewalks in Cali which is straight up not true, so you can just chuck the whole video out the window.

[@BuffordTJustic3]

I love you Phil! Continue awesomeness.

[@johnsnook3498]

Hi Phil, thanks so much for making and posting this video because it’s really well thought out and delivered clearly pointing out many of the hazards faced on a daily basis. The presentation isn’t hysterical or finger pointing but just a really great presentation of the facts! I’m in the UK and much of what you have said unfortunately applies here as well. Thank you so much for this video 👍👏

[@targetedYT]

add to the list: endless amounts of gutter debris to dodge as most of us don't carry enough spares for 5x flats each ride.

[@TheQuebeker]

Not to mention all the road debris ends up on the shoulders. Storm sewer grates are often on the shoulder. People put the garbage and recycling bins on the shoulders. Grass clippings end up on the shoulder.

[@BozoseCompany]

sometimes id like to remind motorists that when im not riding a bike, i drive a car. I get it, im out there too. Im late for work somtimes, Im anxious. But yea when im riding, alittle patience is much appreciated

[@eddy_8232]

Totally agree with all your point. All well thought out bud. Stay safe out there

[@weissjoel82]

this is your new calling Phil.

[@bobbyv384]

I had a pick up drive by me a few months back and they threw a styrofoam fountain drink on me. I was to the far right on the road. Really sucked but what can you do? Can't chase them down and fight. Didn't get their license plate. Someone who does that to people out riding their bike and getting exercise is just plain wrong! All I could really do is wish them bad karma and hope it doesn't happen again. When out riding on regular roads I stay as far to the right as possible (if no shoulder). I do understand that I could ride in the middle if I chose to but I would never do that. I'm a cyclist and I hate when other cyclists (1 or more) ride in the middle of the road. (You'll just be a target for an impatient short tempered fool). If you do this most likely you have or will get honked at, yelled at, or have something thrown at you. A large part of society doesn't ride a bicycle and are ignorant to the needs of a cyclist on the road. We take a chance everyday riding on busy car roads. Any day we could be injured or killed by someone not paying attention. Yet our love for riding out weighs the risk. Thanks for making this video Phil and thank you for staying close to the right. Best wishes.

[@guysmiley4830]

I threw the drink at you because one rude gesture deserves another. The road isn't for play time. Take your sport to a park or a bike path please. You're not entitled to exercise in traffic.

[@odietamo9376]

@@guysmiley4830He wasn’t being rude at all, but you are. I have used a bike as my primary transportation for many years. I suggest you need to learn the law. In every state it is legal to ride a bike on the roads, with slight variations, except on freeways and some bridges. I know this will shock you, but a cyclist has as much of a right to use the road as you do. Not only cyclists either. In most places it’s also legal to ride a horse. So wise up, learn to share, and get over your entitled attitude that only people driving cars can use the roads. When you come across a cyclist going too slow for you, the law says to treat it as any other slow moving vehicle: wait for a chance to pass safely.

[@guysmiley4830]

@@odietamo9376 I bike to work too. I just don't wear spandex and go in the road when there is a bike path right next to it like a narcissistic self entitled son of a B. I go in the road only to cross intersections. And in that case, I follow the laws of a pedestrian. If I catch you on the rare occasion that I'm driving in my car, i'll throw my beer at you. THE ROAD IS NOT FOR RECREATION!

[@Jstroman221]

Thank You.

[@cameratool]

I ride with a mirror on my glasses and am amazed at how poorly most people drive. They're constantly surprised to see me and end up changing lanes at last moment because they don't look beyond their front bumpers. If you drive a car LEARN TO LOOK BEYOND THE CAR IMMEDIATELY IN FRONT OF YOU. Concentrate your gaze at least 15 seconds up the road and let your peripheral vision take care of everything closer. If you're a cyclist (and you probably are because you're watching Phil's KZbin) get a mirror and when you see a driver coming up that isn't changing lanes, start to wobble. A little wobble increases your visibility and usually convinces the driver to make the tiny effort of changing lanes to pass. Also ride with a daylight visible focused taillight. Cygolite makes some really bright tail lights. RIP - Donald (Donnie) Raymond Prado - March 11th, 1961 - August 30th, 2020

[@markconnelly1806]

They do that all the time. The drivers license test must exclude looking up the road.

[@pinger530]

You nailed a lot of reasons why I don’t ride road. Too many drivers with anger management issues. If I mountain bike and I crash, it’s my fault. But on the road, it’s much more likely I’ll be in a car caused accident. I know way more people seriously injured road riding (accident caused by car) than seriously injured on a mountain bike. Plus, riding with car exhaust just doesn’t excite me. So, other than commute riding, I have zero interest in road riding for fun or exercise. We definitely need more bike paths and protected bike lanes in this country.

[@rickmorrow993]

Not always illegal to ride on the sidewalk. When you do, though, you need to respect that pedestrians have the right of way and and you need to proceed with caution and not frighten them when you pass. It depends on the jurisdiction. I can ride on the sidewalk in my neighborhood, but five miles to the east or ten miles to the south, it is a ticketable offense. It is one of those kinds of laws that get enforced when innocent pedestrians get injured by reckless cyclists. Cyclists can ride on some freeways when there are no alternative routes. Know your area and local rules.

[@edge_bob]

The roads are public. Its your right to travel on them. A car requires a licence which is a priveledge.

[@alanhill7965]

Great video ,, wish drivers in Australia only shouted get off the road usually it’s more colourful language and the occasional object is thrown ,,its open season over here at least in this bit of Australia where I live ,,thank for the grea video Phil

[@earleclemans4836]

Just because you can doesn't mean you should

[@keithjohnson5398]

Ah yea our bike lanes here in the big city (LA) are such a mix, an occasional bike lane sign, a painted stripe, sometimes even includes a bicycle icon painted on the pavement. Sometimes the supposed bike lanes stretch for a block or three and sometimes for miles. I usually try to pick quieter streets than go looking for a bike lane. I used to ride on the sidewalk but rarely do now, as you mention they're really made for - walking. It's not illegal here in LA but its just not very considerate. But maybe in other nearby cities such as WeHo, I forget.

[@guy5paris]

Well said Phil! So true.

[@Roq-stone]

From your comments, you are a good road user, and you made some good points. I share some (most) of the road principles you mentioned but the reality is, I have to watch out for myself and be mindful that “some people try to be ‘jerks’”. Lol

[@westonlindberg4912]

Lane splitting: Drivers are livid you're using that tiny amount of space vs. Drivers are livid you're holding them up at the light.

[@stevenleffanue]

Pretty much same here in Australia....hot debate at moment "should cyclists pay rego for using the road?" 😂 Keep up your true to life vids Phil 👍

[@odietamo9376]

What’s “rego”? I assume it is an Australian term unknown in the US.

[@stevenleffanue]

@@odietamo9376 haha, yes, it's Aussie for vehicle registration

[@russmartin4189]

I gave up cycling for about 30 years because there just was not anyplace I could ride without risking my life. The area has become populated and there are a lot of cars and trucks. Additionally, the shoulders were non existent, and people drove about 50 mph, which is fast for those roads. The alternative was winding roads, that are sometimes narrow, with blind turns that people use as shortcuts. It wasn't fun, and my wife did not want me to die for a bike ride. So, I didn't resume until we had a Rail Trail. Now I can ride as much as I want, as far as I want, and have no fear of a car or truck killing me. I just have to watch for 4 year olds suddenly deciding to run across in front of me.

[@lilcvbballfreak]

Wow, an actual level headed cyclist response, how refreshing. Instead of complaining about the lack of infrastructure for bikes, you just stopped biking; you sound crazy if you read other comments from cyclists... Most cyclists commenting here would rather risk their life and endanger everyone else around them so that they can exercise how they want to.

[@russmartin4189]

@@lilcvbballfreak The fact of the matter is, roads were made for cars and trucks, not bicycles, and certainly not bicycles during heavy traffic. Until roads are reconstructed for bikes, bicyclists should stay out of them. There are many other examples of people exercising in inappropriate places, sometimes leading to tragedy. Bicyclists want to do what they want to do, but that is not fair to the innocent people just trying to travel and make their way to work safely. Remember, when a bicyclist rides to the left of the white line, he is forcing the motorist to the left, and possibly into oncoming traffic. If you risk your own life and the lives of motorists, you should refrain from the sport and find one that is safe for everyone. That is what I did. Believe me, I missed it, but I didn't want to die or be injured or cause someone else to die. To do otherwise is to be a narcissist. Find a safe place to ride if you must ride.

[@lilcvbballfreak]

​@@russmartin4189 Sadly, 99% of the cyclists commenting would disagree with you.

[@russmartin4189]

@@lilcvbballfreak As avid and hard core as they are, that does not make them right, no matter how much they believe they have a right to do as they please. They are a hazard to motorists, and are endangering their own lives. Instead of complaining, they should lobby for bike lanes and rail trails. That is the solution. In NY, our governor is developing a statewide network of rail trails, and cyclists will be able to ride from NYC to Canada and west out to Buffalo and the PA line, without ever going on a road. Other trails will link with that,. It is to be called the Empire Trail and it is sure to be a big success. In all, they are developing over 400 miles of rail trails. Before the rail trails, we had to ride on the roads and risk our lives. Some still do.

[@lilcvbballfreak]

@@russmartin4189 This is sage advice, lobbying and crowdfunding for more bicycle infrastructure is definitely needed. With the advances in electric vehicles, I can't imagine cars are going away any time soon.

[@nooranik21]

I basically gave up road riding in the city because it was just a waiting game. I was just waiting for the day someone would blow through a stop sign texting and reduce me to a red smear on the pavement, or someone not to head check before going into a shared bike/right turn lane and side swipe me, or worse just road rage me off the road. I get my cycling fix on mountain bikes or way out of the city on very un-popular roads. I wanted to be more environmentally conscious. I wanted to get more exercise by riding to work. I wanted to enjoy my commute. What I got instead was just fear of cars.

[@robthompson6674]

Preach! Three things to add - 1) try to find someone (COVID-free) to ride with and you'll experience less of the hostility. If 2020 has proven anything, it's that being alone makes us targets. 2) Put an ear bud in your left ear (whether it's on or not is your call). This way you can just say "I can't hear you" to anyone honking or yelling out a window at you. That's the end of that. 3) Whatever happens, don't respond to rage with rage. It's incredibly hard, but that's how you "win." If they almost hit you, you survived. You already won. Flipping them off, throwing your bottle at them or chasing them down to shout at them only serves to create another "Cyclists are a-holes" anecdote.

[@robthompson6674]

sapinva Nah. Take away their 3-5000lb shields and drivers are wusses. I’ve never had one of them dare get out of their car....I mean pickup truck.

[@odietamo9376]

As a cyclist I have to say that when I see cyclists wearing ear buds all I think is how stupid they are for deliberately making themselves unable to hear, with all the possible dangers and consequences that can result.

[@yeknommonkey]

Part of the car driving test should include a day out cycling and ideally a few days on a motorcycle too (maybe a scooter or something easy) so everyone gets to see what it’s like to have your life in other peoples hands. There’s no applying lipstick or eating crisps, sending text messages or pissing about with the radio on two wheels, your attention is on the job of not dying (although Phil here is titting around with is camera phone while riding 😱).

[@laszlozoltan5021]

I've seen in England they put some "lorry drivers" (what-the-f-are those?) on bicycles riding in traffic to help them understand things from a cyclist's perspective.

[@mikewilson0]

I think this homeless guy makes some good points 🤔

[@VegasCyclingFreak]

Here in Las Vegas, people purposely try to hit me at stop signs. If you get hit by a car here, I’d say there’s a 90% chance they leave the scene and you’re on your own.

[@Health_at_every_size_PDX]

I have been without a car and riding a bike for 6 years now in Oregon. I hear some of the silliest stuff from drivers like the road is only for cars, you don't pay for the roads because you don't buy gas, and all cyclists are entitled brats. It's like, re-read the DMV manual, I help pay for the roads with taxes, and most cyclists do what they do for safety so they don't get hit by a car. It does upset me when police watch a driver nearly kill me, and they decide that a visit to a coffee shop is more important than doing their job.

[@killoflen]

I hope car drivers will actually see this. The problem with these messages is that they usually just get shared across cyclists... An actual awareness big budget campaign should be started for this. But cars still rule the roads...

[@JeremyCaissie]

Phil this was an incredible video.

[@ConstructMTL]

WELL DONE.

[@chrisplewa]

Next coal roller caught on my go-pro is getting served with a civil suit. People are messed up.

[@evanmacdougall9715]

Excellent!

[@ipodgolfer13]

Amazing video.

[@michaelwilson5387]

I was a cyclist. Now I’m a electric unicyclist still all in the name of health. I don’t care what motorists think bc we have right of way in every possible situation. I don’t hear them anymore. And since the speed limit is 25 in nyc, that makes me and others faster than traffic. I’m 55 and my head is on a swivel and I am having a wonderful time. Ride on and be safe

[@jamesoxford4260]

I had this guy roll down his window and ask me if I minded riding on the side walk. I said, "yeah" and he said thanks and rolled up his window. He looked really confused when I continued to ride in the road. I thought I'd been pretty clear.

[@roxfoot]

The amount of times I have been overtaken on my bike just so the car can pull in and stop right in front of me is ridiculous

[@iblizzard7573]

We do that so we don't have to pass you again when traffic starts moving

[@SirFartsAlot1]

Yes you are considered as a vehicle. When I'm on my bike I follow all traffic laws which includes more than anything stopping at reds and stop signs

[@odietamo9376]

Yes, yes, YES! I have used a bike for my primary transportation for many years, and while I am fed up with the behavior of many motorists, I am also tired of the actions of many cyclists. Reckless riding, whizzing through red lights, going the wrong way up one way streets, etcetera. They give all cyclists a bad name; I get accused of things I never do, I fear that one day I will be the victim of some motorist’s rage based on the behavior of some cyclists. I actually wish the cops would stop and give tickets to cyclists who routinely ignore the traffic laws.

[@PeterPutz82]

So in short, bike riding is the bomb! Get a bike and get out there! Use Strava heat maps to plan a safer route. Watch lots of how to vids on You-tube to get comfortable on the road. Get an indoor trainer and Zwift to build fitness off the road. Connect with other bike riders to have safety in numbers on social media. Generally, use the multitude of tools we now have to provide information to help you be safe and enjoy cycling indoors and out.

[@gregmcmullen6698]

I ride Pennsylvania roads. There is a PA state law giving "non-motorized vehicles", which includes horse and buggies, 4 feet of clearance, PERIOD ! I'm squeezed every time I ride. Yesterday, a car even swerved into my lane right after they squeezed me. Maybe they were trying to hit me, idk. I am seriously considering setting up a lobbying group on behalf of cyclists. There needs to be a way to file charges on vehicles that violate this law. Unless a cop sees it OR, god forbid, a vehicle hits you(and they stop), you're out of luck pressing charges. About a month ago, I was squeezed by a state cop and I wish I had a go pro to video him. If we can find a way to fine the violators, monetarily and by driving points, it would make a huge statement and most "squeezing" would subside. If a vehicle passes a stopped(flashing red) school bus, in PA, you automatically get 6 points. You only need reported, make, model, license plate, date, time and location, no video necessary. Cyclists need this same ability.

[@terrencewalker9468]

I hate riding on the road, quite a few people have been injured riding on the road. But you are right, it is the law. We do the best we can.

[@kuri911]

My left ear still rings all the time ever since a Harley rider decided to rev his motor as he passed me a few years ago. We were traveling on a wide, suburban two lane two way road with shoulders and no one else around us. But he had to pull the clutch and rev his open exhaust as he passed me. Makes no sense. Now I cover my ear every time I hear a Harley coming up from behind.

[@stevek8829]

You can't get tinnitus from a motorcycle passing you. So BS.

[@MiceNine9]

The "get off the road" crowd is almost as aggressive as the "get off the sidewalk" crowd. Had an old woman throw a shovel full of snow in my face for riding on the sidewalk (she wasn't on it, just felt a strong desire to correct my behavior). When cities flat-out refuse to build bicycle infrastructure or to maintain the infrastructure that do have, I'm riding wherever I feel safest. I'll take a face full of snow over a face full of windshield.

[@guysmiley4830]

I recommend finding a nice bike path. It's not safe to exercise in traffic.

[@MiceNine9]

​@@guysmiley4830 City streets don't belong to cars. If you don't like cyclists, I recommend you take your car out to the race track.

[@PeterPutz82]

I ride my roadie with mates, cop abuse from motorists. I ride my flat bar bike towing my 13 month old baby in a trailer on a shared path and pedestrians get angry at me for going 'too fast'. I ride on a dedicated 'bike only' duplicated path and pedestrians walk on it. Change will be effected when more people ride bikes. When people in cars are stationary watching hundreds of bikes fly by things will change. When pedestrians are constantly having to move from constantly being dinged, they will get this idea to walk to the side. When the dedicated cycle path is the cycle equivalent of the interstate with guys doing 33kph, hopefully peds will not walk there at all. It's a numbers game, we need more people on bikes.

[@sccxvelo]

Have to ride on on the 71 highway In Pomona (eastern edge of LA Co.) where I live for about 100-200 meters due there is no other paved roads around to get to where I am going very easily. If not it it is along detour on very trafficked roads not in the best shape at places for cyclists. The short dirt road area next to the highway is SoCal Edison and can be overgrown, have thorns, loose soil, etc. would love to take a strip of the Socal Edison area for a functional bike path/public right of way for less than 100m along house fences to the dead street just up the slight grade between the houses and new SoCal Edison property line. The highway is about to upgraded to freeway without regard to locals getting around in the neighborhood.