Quote:
Originally Posted by Michael 61
I would really like to purchase a bicycle (either conventional or e-bike), but after living here for almost one year, I’ve seen way too many close-calls between cyclists and golf carts on the multi-modal paths. I think it would stress me out, vs being a relaxing, enjoyable ride on the paths, trying to dodge golf carts, or worry about them passing me on blind corners.
Maybe I’m over-thinking this, and it’s not as big a safety concern as I’m envisioning it to be. Would be interested to hear what cyclists have to say about their comfort and safety level when riding on the paths.
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I ride 10-12,000 miles per year. I ride so much my bike gets covered in a black oily soot from golf cart exhaust. It's such good exercise I certainly would not advise you not to ride a bike, but there are risks.
Probably 95% of the golf cart drivers are careful, thoughtful, and safe to ride near. 2-3% perhaps mean well, but frankly are just not that good at driving. That last 2% should be banned from ever being able to drive a golf cart because they are accidents waiting to happen. They are reckless, thoughtless, and frequently think they are the sole owner of the path. I have seen some hair curling examples of things these jerks will do.
Some tips:
First, consider riding neighborhood streets that do not get a lot of through traffic. I combine these with the multimodal paths. The neighborhoods I go into offer some pretty safe riding.
As you approach blind corners, listen for carts and have your hands on your brakes. There are a number of golf cart drivers who have no concept of lanes and they will cut the corners and meet you head-on.
If you are on a multimodal path that runs along a golf course, be very aware of traffic that may be coming off the course. Some of those drivers are more into their game than driving and they will pull onto the multimodal path without even looking.
Paths that are split into two one-ways can be a challenge. As I get near entering one of these I look behind me to see if carts are approaching from behind. If so, I pull over and stop and let them past. Once on the path, I take up my full lane. I used to ride as tight to the right side as possible to let people pass me in the single lane. Not anymore, some golf cart drivers will breeze past with just a one-foot clearance. If it's a long lane and I have a place to ride off the trail to let them pass me, I will.
Absolutely, positively, ride with a mirror. Some riders don't and I think that's risky as heck. You need to see what's coming behind you. There are some very good ones that install easily on almost any bike.
If you ride after dark or even near dawn or dusk, have a good flashing taillight and a bright headlight. Being seen is important.
Don't let this scare you away from biking. Just be heads-up about it.