[Chazz]

Originally Posted by Skybo

It seems to me that there are a lot less recumbent bikes around than there were 3 or 4 years ago. I used to see several every time I drove through TV, but now I rarely see them. Has anyone else noticed that? Makes me wonder if many of the recumbent bike riders just felt too vulnerable. And if so, that is a shame, because it looks like a very good form of exercise.

If we, as car/cart drivers, are paying proper attention, we should be looking for the flags (not at all silly, btw) on recumbent bikes, as well as watching for walkers, runners, scooters, motorcycles...and every other form of conveyance here. Some people don't do their due diligence when it comes to protecting themselves, but that doesn't relieve the rest of us of the responsibility of our own due diligence.

The "active lifestyle" is a large part of what makes TV what it is. Personally, I really enjoy seeing folks out walking, running and riding bikes. That is a big part of the vibrancy of this community. And that is what newcomers and visitors notice the most. And, btw, it is also a major reason why our homes are so valuable and will sell quickly.

It doesn't matter the road, path or method of conveyance, there will always be people who are irritated by what someone else does.

I just wish that everyone, regardless of what they are driving or riding would reign in their in their "irritation" when they encounter others who they feel are going too slow or going too fast or not following all of the laws.

Think about how laying on your horn or yelling might startle someone and make them react in a way that could cause an accident. Or how passing them too fast or too close might result in a tragedy. Try to pretend that the stranger who is currently irritating you is actually a visiting friend or family member of yours, and treat them as you would want your loved ones to be treated.

Although I can't provide figures, I would say that there are many more recumbent riders (more trikes than 2-wheelers) in my view, than at any time here in the past. As a matter of fact, the Sumter Landing Bike Club just recognized their increasing popularity by adding a recumbent trike group ride out of Barnes & Nobles on Mondays. I have had the pleasure of riding with that group a few times, and they practice safe riding principles.