Is it safe to ride a bicycle on the multi-modal paths?

[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.

[Randall55]

Dave and Brenda did a video titled "Peddling the Villages." Jerry and Linda did some titled "Cruising the Villages on E Bikes."They take you on a ride with them through the trails. I think these will help you decide.

[DonH57]

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.

Just wear a helmet and practice defensive riding. Golf carts will pass you on blind corners and have no problems getting people out of their way to make that tee time. I can't count how many times I've witnessed close calls as well. Look just what happened with the poor fellow down your way. They'll never find the golf cart driver that hit him. No traceable means to identify him or the cart. I personally would not ride a bicycle on any of the multi modal paths.:22yikes:

[asianthree]

You have two options first you can ride the roads doing 16 miles an hour while cars drive 30 to 60 miles an hour,(that on Meggison)

Or one can ride the internal streets your neighborhood feel a little safer, especially early in the morning, and on the weekends.

I also strongly suggest you wear a GoPro, that way if there should be any incidents, it can be recorded.

Plus later in the day you can review those who live in your neighborhood that drive like a crazy person.

[vintageogauge]

You have two options first you can ride the roads doing 16 miles an hour while cars drive 30 to 60 miles an hour,(that on Meggison)

Or one can ride the internal streets your neighborhood feel a little safer, especially early in the morning, and on the weekends.

I also strongly suggest you wear a GoPro, that way if there should be any incidents, it can be recorded.

Plus later in the day you can review those who live in your neighborhood that drive like a crazy person.

I did the internal streets thing and I'm telling you that is not safe either. Every day I had at lease one very close call and some days multiple times. You really have to be defensive on a bike around here and have a rear view mirror or two, people are on their cell phones, driving in the wrong lanes when turning onto another street, don't look when coming out of their driveways, and golf cars are the worst offenders of all.

[Trayderjoe]

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.

I have ridden a Catrike for 6 or so years on the multi-modal paths and feel safe doing so. I get passed at least once per ride (I am not a slow rider) and I have been cut off on the multi-modal paths by carts racing to beat me to the path splitting, passing me on blind curves, as well as a couple of knuckleheads passing me as I approached a downward sloping path to reach the tunnel system under both Morse and Buena Blvd. I have even had a car squeeze by me on my right on Old Mill road heading out to the circle. Having said that, I naturally ride very defensively and make frequent use of my mirrors, so I assume every single driver is going to do something stupid and try to put myself in the best position possible when stupid does what stupid will do. My biggest peeve would be the people walking WITH traffic flow on the multi-modal paths, especially those two or three abreast, or those with ear phones on who can’t hear me or see my LED lights coming.

Perhaps you might rent a bike for a week or 2 before investing in an expensive bike and see what your risk tolerance level is out there.

[DonH57]

You have two options first you can ride the roads doing 16 miles an hour while cars drive 30 to 60 miles an hour,(that on Meggison)

Or one can ride the internal streets your neighborhood feel a little safer, especially early in the morning, and on the weekends.

I also strongly suggest you wear a GoPro, that way if there should be any incidents, it can be recorded.

Plus later in the day you can review those who live in your neighborhood that drive like a crazy person.

That GoPro tip is a great idea.

[Topspinmo]

Actually at our age in not safe to ride bicycle like lot of other activities including walking if you don’t pay attention and take precautions. But, can’t be hermit so get out and enjoy.

[villagetinker]

I have a 21 speed men's bike I am getting ready to sell, probably has a total of 500 miles on it. It is dusty, and needs a rear tube, unless I get a chance to replace it.

[asianthree]

I did the internal streets thing and I'm telling you that is not safe either. Every day I had at lease one very close call and some days multiple times. You really have to be defensive on a bike around here and have a rear view mirror or two, people are on their cell phones, driving in the wrong lanes when turning onto another street, don't look when coming out of their driveways, and golf cars are the worst offenders of all.

Twice a day we have group of 10-20 bike groups ride our neighborhood no issues except two residents that live in the neighborhood who truly believes they should be the only driver anywhere, because and I quote “this is the way I drove back home, and you need to get our of my way”

Have been riding in 4 neighborhoods since 2010, never had any incidents or even a close call. Maybe farther south they have the “I own the road (car or cart) get off my road :crap2:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I only ride on the street ,years ago I started out on those paths , after a certain amount of golf carts passing inches away from me I stopped .No place is perfect and that includes driving in your own car and . we shouldn’t expect it to be ,but the villages roadways are the safest place I’ve ever ridden .FYI age doesn’t matter ( I’m 85 ) just be aware of your surroundings and you’ll be fine

[Laker14]

I would not ride on the MMPs myself. IMO, there are too many places where the curbs don't give you an "out" should a golf cart put the squeeze on you.
I wouldn't ride anywhere in TV. Too many poor drivers. Some drive too fast, some are just clueless as to the boundaries of their car. Some are just old and slow. Some are in a hurry, and drive too fast for the roads, and for their own reflexes.

Not all, of course, but it only takes one.

[Altavia]

I prefer the residential streets when possible.

When biking the MMP's, as a cart approaches just slow down and let the carts pass as quick as possible. Especially if on an ebike that does 20mph.

[fdpaq0580]

That GoPro tip is a great idea.

Yeah! They can play the video at the funeral.

Look. Every activity has certain inherent dangers. Many times those dangers increase due to age, physical condition, population density, etc. You wanna ride, by golly you ride! Just be as safe as you can. It's your life. Live it as you like, but be aware. Be VERY aware!

[Toymeister]

The key, Michael, is to 'take your lane'. Ride the MMP like you are in a cart. This way carts will not try to share your lane. Second, use an ebike. At a top speed of 28 mph you can pick up speed at the blind corners, leaving the carts behind. Generally I don't recommend by this but there are times when it is necessary. It's usually easier to let them pass.

[ElDiabloJoe]

The key, Michael, is to 'take your lane'. Ride the MMP like you are in a cart. This way carts will not try to share your lane. Second, use an ebike. At a top speed of 28 mph you can pick up speed at the blind corners, leaving the carts behind. Generally I don't recommend by this but there are times when it is necessary. It's usually easier to let them pass.

Hypocrisy is a funny thing.

When I was on marathon training runs many cyclists would pass me within inches pretending they were Lance Armstrong. Usually pelotons of these wanna-be's. So, when I started "taking the lane" by extending my elbows and arms as they approached, all of a sudden they would get all upset with me. Some even stopped to try to pick fights. Of course, they had trouble unclipping their ballerina shoes from their pedals, but try thet did.

So, taking the lane is very cyclist popular - when THEY are the ones taking the lane. They don't seem to like it much when others do it to them in order to protect my safety. Cyclists are correct, they suffer the most when colliding with cars or golf carts. However, pedestrians suffer the most when colliding with cyclists zipping around at 25+mph especially with their mass and that of their bike. So who is most entitled to take the lane?

[Battlebasset]

Sadly, I'm thinking the e-bike is the only way to go on MMP. Otherwise, you can't keep up with the golf carts going 20 MPH+ especially on inclines.

And while they have the right, bikes on roads like Morse and Buena Vista are nuts. The can put on their tombstone "I had the right" but that will be cold comfort to your relatives.

[asianthree]

Yeah! They can play the video at the funeral.


Look. Every activity has certain inherent dangers. Many times those dangers increase due to age, physical condition, population density, etc. You wanna ride, by golly you ride! Just be as safe as you can. It's your life. Live it as you like, but be aware. Be VERY aware!

At least with a go-pro their death may not go unpunished, while not much of a comfort for the family, at least there could be a usable pic to present to law enforcement.

In our old neighborhood we had a lovely gentleman who walked with his wife everyday. She had serious dementia, but enjoyed looking at the flowers.

He had a GoPro mounted on the walker. About once a month he would post, on the neighborhood site, pic of a car or cart that acted unsafe near them.

Made some take notice, few knew who was posting the pics, and thought what a good idea.

Sometimes some need to be reminded that a golf cart is not a toy, and the injury you may cause, will hopefully not let you sleep at night.

[vintageogauge]

Twice a day we have group of 10-20 bike groups ride our neighborhood no issues except two residents that live in the neighborhood who truly believes they should be the only driver anywhere, because and I quote “this is the way I drove back home, and you need to get our of my way”

Have been riding in 4 neighborhoods since 2010, never had any incidents or even a close call. Maybe farther south they have the “I own the road (car or cart) get off my road :crap2:

Younger people using cell phones, nothing to do with owning the road and they are just as dangerous if not more dangerous than drunk drivers.

[asianthree]

Younger people using cell phones, nothing to do with owning the road and they are just as dangerous if not more dangerous than drunk drivers.

Our kids use GoPro, 20 plus miles on a cellphone video isn’t great on the battery, plus too much storage. But a cell is a cheaper way to go for quick rides.

[VApeople]

No, it is definitely NOT safe to ride a bike on a multi-modal path.

We only ride our bikes on one of the walking-biking paths south of Route 44.

I guess you have read about the person who was recently killed on the MMP in Chitty Chatty.

[Velvet]

Let me tell you my family’s experience with riding in TV. My mother and aunt were both born in Central Europe and went everywhere, including on highways, with their bicycle - their only mode of transportation. When my aunt came to the Villages in 1992 District 1 she tried to go grocery shopping as usual with her bicycle but found it too dangerous. Then she tried to use her bicycle for recreation (I am not sure if there were any cycling clubs back then) but found it too dangerous. Finally, she took her bike to the Chula Vista recreation parking lot and rode around very early in the morning before going swimming.

My mother had a seasonal home in the Historic area. She also tried recreational bike riding but ended up parking lot riding really early in the morning. My brother in his 30’s had several Giant brand (Tour de France -type) bikes at home up north and brought one here to ride around. He rode it only for one day and then left the bike for mom to ride. But it hung up on the wall for years till it got rusty. ($3000 - what a waste!)

[Happydaz]

Bicycling is a great way to stay active in The Villages. You can enjoy riding the Multi Modal Paths, but just watch out for some of the golf carts, especially the ones that will pass you on blind curves. Get front and rear high powered lights and a rear mirror on your bike. People try to scare you to death about walking or cycling on the MMP’s, but remember most people commenting on forums don’t exercise so take their advice with a grain of salt. I choose to ride on the roads on bike club rides in groups of ten and that seems to offer high visibility and a margin of safety. You might want to consider joining a Villages bike club. Most people driving cars and golf carts are nice out there. You just have to watch out for that rare angry or careless driver. Get out and enjoy The Villages! It is beautiful.

[Keefelane66]

My friends and I have been riding bicycles on public roads since we were 5-6. No bike lanes and No helmets and we survived. Maybe it was because we were street-smart. Today I ride with a helmet and go-pro camera rear view mirrors and take nothing for granted.
What's lacking generally is COMMON COURTESY between bicycles, pedestrians and golf carts on mmp’s

[Smalley]

My friends and I have been riding bicycles on public roads since we were 5-6. No bike lanes and No helmets and we survived. Maybe it was because we were street-smart. Today I ride with a helmet and go-pro camera rear view mirrors and take nothing for granted.
What's lacking generally is COMMON COURTESY between bicycles, pedestrians and golf carts on mmp’s

As a longtime cyclist, TV is the safest place I've riden. In Virginia we were riding with vehicular traffic on busy roads. On the bike paths there, (no golf carts) there were plenty of near-misses and collisions. Wear a helmet, get lights on your bike for the low light times of day and be careful out there! The benefits outweigh the risks. Exercise is hugely important for our health!

[Flyers999]

Weather permitting, I bike every afternoon on the streets of my neighborhood to get the mail and get exercise. Never had a problem there. Internal streets are the safest ride IMO. At the other end of the spectrum are the MMPs on Buena Vista and Morse Blvd. Especially on the half-circles around the gates. I never got hit but once I was forced to bail out into the brush ( knee high shubery ). That's life in the big city. Guy actually stopped to tell me that he knew an athletic guy like myself would have no problem bailing out, or he wouldn't have cut me off. OK.

[Velvet]

As a longtime cyclist, TV is the safest place I've riden. In Virginia we were riding with vehicular traffic on busy roads. On the bike paths there, (no golf carts) there were plenty of near-misses and collisions. Wear a helmet, get lights on your bike for the low light times of day and be careful out there! The benefits outweigh the risks. Exercise is hugely important for our health!

I think you are jesting about TV being safest, I can’t imagine where you may have been riding before. But if you ride with a group, do believe it is much safer and also if you stay on the neighborhood streets (for the most part).

[tophcfa]

We ride for exercise on the neighborhood streets throughout the various Villages surrounding our home and periodically trailer our bikes south of 44 to ride the pathways that don’t allow golf carts. We only ride on Morse, Buena Vista, or the MMP’s when using our bikes for transportation and it’s absolutely necessary to get to a specific destination, but not for recreation.

[drdoug59]

i feel it’s best to join a bike group and travel with them in groups, biking by yourself on a path you share with elderly drivers is dangerous, and I use pedal bike The villages is a great place, but it values golf carts over biking by a wide margin

[banjobob]

Ride on the side streets stay off the MMP’s

[jimdecastro]

You think a bike has issues - try walking! I walk against "traffic" - including on walking paths - because bicycles have hit me three times (I do not weave side to side). Each time was when people walking with traffic refused to move to the correct side. Now I stop and wait or if the grass is dry I move there.

[westernrider75]

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.

I’ve been riding for about a year on first a conventional bike and now an e-bike. I stick to MMP as much as possible and am very comfortable with my safety. I’ve never had a problem, but I try to stay aware of my surroundings. Get a bike, you will love it. I would love to have a non-competitive group to ride with but have not found one.

[Sandy and Ed]

If interest is in exercise as well as exploration I might suggest a tricycle as an alternative which may be safer. Not the recumbent variety but the good old fashion upright adult delivery vehicle variety. Might even put a bell on the handle and a basket as well. Don’t laugh. Very stable and golf carts won’t be able to nudge you off the path. Just a thought

Oh yeah, add a go pro to the handle bar as well. Good advice from the other commentators

[La lamy]

I only ride on the street. It's quite safe in the historical section, not sure about other areas.

[spinner1001]

Bike riding in The Villages is safer than riding in cities and on busy country roads on average.

In the southern areas —
We prefer bicycle riding on the roads and little on MMPs because we feel safer from golf carts and, without an e-bike, sharp turns and steep slopes around the tunnels are relatively dangerous compared to roads overall. We mostly avoid riding on Morse and Buena Vista when very busy with auto traffic and will often ride nearby (wider) MMPs instead. Generally, MMPs in the southern area are ‘better’ for cyclists than in northern areas because of no curbs and greater width. Generally, riding during mornings hours rather than mid-day and afternoons is safer because of lesser traffic. The walking-only paths (not MMPs) can be stressful for bike riding when busy with walkers including kids and dogs; riding these paths early often works.

Always wear a good helmet. Always. Bright clothing (e.g., neon vest) and flashing bicycle lights — front and rear — are safer. Invest in such safety equipment. Visit a local bike shop, look around, and talk with one of the workers. The Trek store on SR 301 north of SR 44 is a good place to start. Trek Bicycle Wildwood | Trek Bicycle Wildwood (https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/retail/wildwood/)

When first riding a bike, consider riding with a bicycle club in their slower or new-rider groups. You will learn many things from others, and get social and practical support. You will learn better local routes for cycling from experienced riders compared to learning routes on your own.

Sumter Landing Bicycle Club is one club. SLBC - Sumter Landing Bicycle Club (https://www.slbikeclub.org/)

Bike riding ‘off-season’ is less stressful than ‘in-season’ — other than the heat.

Bike riding is good exercise and fun for most people.

[edtherock]

Michael. It really depends on how much you value cycling and your life. As an avid cyclist putting in 15k miles a year I have seen to many bike accidents and friends getting terribly injured. All it takes is one bad bike accident and your life is put on hold or even over. So is it worth it? Remember here there are lots of old people who make bad decisions. So you must ride very very defensively. Is it worth it? If you do ride outside look at Cycliq front and rear cameras for your bike so you can record everything. Great products they have. Or you can be like me and I ride inside for the most part on a smart trainer ( wahoo kicker) and the platform called (Zwift) and you ride with people from all over the world and pro bike riders. Ride alone, in a group, time trials, etc. you need an iPad , iPhone or pc. It works on all platforms. You can text to all while riding so you can creat friendships. I was in Kentucky with a large group of people I ride with in Zwift. About 30 of us from all over the USA and Canada converged there during the century ride there this past summer. So it is the safe option if you want to ride a bike. You just don’t get the wind rain Sun and fun of being outside.

[GizmoWhiskers]

I would use an e-bike if using the mvp s. With the traffic jams coming out of tunnels and then making hard turns up hill an e-bike gives you better mobility when cart drivers are so impatient (especially from Oct to March).

Benefit of an e-bike is you have best of both worlds. You can pedal OR "gun it". Definitely get a go pro.

A woman got hit in DeLuna a couple years ago now with witnesses, one a friend of mine. The car driver attempted to leave the scene. Once police arrived the driver got a "free pass" by the police while driving without insurance. He got to take his car and go on home. The woman was taken to the hospital. No punishment for the driver and no claim for the victim against him.

In that case it was a "It's not what you know its who you know" moment so a go pro would have held the police accountable to the victim and no favors.

I would also think about what your desired goals are for riding. Leisure and/or group activity. There are some e-bike riders on group rides so it is not an impossibility to use one with some of the cycling groups that do allow them (I have a friend who is a rider that speaks of e-bikes on some of his rides).

[Klearhead]

The first question I ask myself is "Why did I come here?" I know it seems like a silly question, it's not. Once upon a time I was an very good athlete, I rode bikes, ran in the Melrose games , even had a Professional Baseball contract offer. All those things were than, not today. I didn't come to The Villages for yesterday I came here for my Today's and God willing my Tomorrows. I broke a wrist in 3 places at age 23 and it cost me 4 or 5 weeks in healing, if I did that today age 73, it might well be 4 or 5 months of rehab. During the past 50 years I'll be darned but I did (despite my better judgement) actually physically age. Mind you that I have a different personal view and will quickly suggest "I'm a young 73". If I believe that, I'm also very foolish and I'm only fooling myself. I can remember my Mother and Father reminding of this fact when I was young, funny how they knew. I'm here because I couldn't find a better place in this big beautiful country to retire in and hopefully live out my days enjoying the sometimes limited fruits of life that The Villages help make possible. Today I don't need to fall off a bike through no issue of my own. People make mistakes, I've learned that and something else I need not plan my own mistakes The Villages is full of people who can do that for me....God Bless and have a great day.

[sharonl7340]

I ride in the neighborhoods and limit the amount of time on the street as much as possible. I have had many close calls wirh cars passing me with only a foot of clearance. I stopped riding on the MMPs when a cart passed me on a path where the lanes separated with a median. Scared the crap out of me. No paths, limited street time, all neighborhood roads. I treasure my bike time, so give it a try, but have mirrors and be mindful.

[JRcorvette]

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.

Wear a helmet and pay attention to what is around you. Always assume that cars and carts can not see you. If you are not comfortable riding a bike then don’t.

[mdmurrell]

I agree that bike riding along with golf carts can be dangerous. However, it is less dangerous than driving on the streets along with automobiles. I carry a police whistle when I bike primarily to alert pedestrians who are so involved with dogs and cell phones that they are oblivious to all else.

[Chamo]

Just what we need to read a bunch of tour Lafrance people that think they entitled to the road and complain about everyone else’s driving but their own.

[HomerSimpson]

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.

I recommend you also buy a bike rack for your car and take your bike to the Withlacoochee State Trail, Santos Campground, or similar. This is the safest way to go, as well as enjoyable. Otherwise it is a stressful ride on MMPs or the street.

If you HAVE to ride the MMPs. . .
1. Wear a helmet and reflective vest
2. Turn on your lights, flashing red in back at minimum
3. Use a mirror to see traffic behind you
4. If a cart comes up behind you, ride into the grass as soon as possible and let them pass
5. Ring your bell when you see people or other bikes in your path

If you ride the Hogeye or similar (no carts), ring your bell when you come up on people. It is stressful for people walking there - especially when the bikes are electric, running 15 MPH in total silence. I personally would like to see e-bikes banned from the Hogeye. It makes walking stressful when you have to keep looking over your shoulder for the surprise e-speeder.

[bobeaston]

Bike riding (actually, trike riding) in TV is a LOT safer than on the country roads in our previous "sleepy" little suburban village up north.

My wife and I ride the MMPs everyday, but we are very cautious and take precautions. We always ride with flashing lights and mirrors. We keep constantly aware of approaching golf carts from either direction. We are NOT fans of "take the lane" and can't ride fast enough to outrun any cart. (No, we won't use electrics either; we're out there for the exercise, not for racing along letting the machine do the work.) On occasion, esp on divided MMPs, we'll drop one wheel of the trike off into the grass to give a cart room to pass. On bridges, we stay as far right as possible for the same reason.

Yet, we still find cart drivers in so much of a hurry that they'll risk a head on collision on a bridge to pass us. (You idiots know who you are, 3 in a row, a week ago Wednesday morning, southbound on the Chitty Chatty bridge.) One almost won a Darwin award and tried to take me along with him!

Fortunately, trikes give us a lot more stability than the rider of a 2-wheeler who might be easily bumped and crash.

CAUTION is the operative word. In the morning, we are cautious of those who started too late to ensure adequate time to get to their tee-times. In the afternoon we are cautious of those who are so intoxicated they have to have their wives drive.

But, we won't stop riding because even with all the idiot cart drivers, it's safer than any place else we've ever ridden.

[toeser]

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.


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.

[ChicagoNative]

Common sense and common courtesy, neither of which are common, would go a long way for all involved.

We all know everyone has their “rights”, but it amazes me that there are still those walkers who Will. Not. Move. off the path to let bikes or carts pass when they have plenty of room to do so.

Cyclists do the same. I saw a large group of cyclists about a month ago. Several were wearing shirts that read “Same Rules, Same Rights”. I giggled to myself as they blew through the next stop sign they came upon.

Carts aren’t blameless either. I’ve seen carts that buzz cyclists and hikers. It’s frustrating to get behind slow hikers and cyclers, but it’s a fact of life using the paths along Buena Vista and Morse. At least in the new southern areas they’ve recognized the issue and made a lot of separate paths for bikers/hikers. It’d be nice if that could be done from the Springs down to Brownwood.

[Mlundberg]

I put a bike rack on my car on go to the public trails in Santos, Inverness, and Clermont. These trails are long, beautiful, and paved. They are designed for bikes. MMPs are ruled by golf cars and dangerous for bikers.

[Kingsport]

Riding the multi-modals on a regular bike can be unnerving. My solution was to purchase a fat-tire e-bike. The amount of power assistance can be adjusted on the fly to get the level of workout you want. The benefit is that you can go as fast as the carts. You don’t get passed. I tend to get behind a cart or carts and follow along as a respectful distance. Then, you are too large a block to be passed anyway. Brownwood cycles will let you try one to test it out. A good e-bike can go in the neighborhood of 30mph if you really want to. They are quite comfortable in the low 20mph range.

Aside from that, a general rule of thumb when cycling is NOT to ride too close to the edge of the road or trail. It makes sure cars have to go around you and leaves you room if they pass too closely. If you have to leave the trail, fat tires are more stable. Of course, get flashing lights for front and back and a mirror and helmet. Spend a good amount of time in a quiet place practicing so you are familiar with the controls and how to adjust your speed.

[Fastskiguy]

Hypocrisy is a funny thing.

When I was on marathon training runs many cyclists would pass me within inches pretending they were Lance Armstrong. Usually pelotons of these wanna-be's. So, when I started "taking the lane" by extending my elbows and arms as they approached, all of a sudden they would get all upset with me. Some even stopped to try to pick fights. Of course, they had trouble unclipping their ballerina shoes from their pedals, but try thet did.

So, taking the lane is very cyclist popular - when THEY are the ones taking the lane. They don't seem to like it much when others do it to them in order to protect my safety. Cyclists are correct, they suffer the most when colliding with cars or golf carts. However, pedestrians suffer the most when colliding with cyclists zipping around at 25+mph especially with their mass and that of their bike. So who is most entitled to take the lane?

Just curious...were you running on the right or left side of the path? Were the bikes passing on you right shoulder or left shoulder?

Joe

[Fastskiguy]

I put a bike rack on my car on go to the public trails in Santos, Inverness, and Clermont. These trails are long, beautiful, and paved. They are designed for bikes. MMPs are ruled by golf cars and dangerous for bikers.

100%, we load up the bikes and head over to one of these places too. Santos has a meandering paved trail thru the forest, 16 miles long with just two road crossings and it's empty all week long.

31.9 mi Mountain Bike Ride on November 21, 2023 by Joseph F on Strava (https://www.strava.com/activities/10258549311)

The other thing I'd add is that being able to keep up with the flow of golf car traffic helps a lot so ebikes at 20-22mph can be safer than analog bikes at 12mph.

Joe

[Switter]

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.

I ride bike on the them. I don't have a golf cart so it's my primary means of transportation besides my car. I really like the idea of a GoPro as someone mentioned, never thought of that.

I never used to wear a helmet riding bike but I do now. I have a rearview mirror so I can see when golf carts are coming up behind me. I also have LED lights on front and back that flash so golf cart drivers are more likely to see me. You definitely need to be a defensive biker because some golf cart drivers, maybe even many, are driving distracted in some way or another. Watch blind corners, the natural tendency of people is to move towards the center of the path or hug the inside of a corner. If they're coming the opposite direction from you that could be a head on collision. I've also had people try to pass me on blind corners, but that's probably more dangerous for them than it is for me. I think the time of day makes a difference too. Experiment with it.

Oh, and slightly off-topic, there is an free app called Gaia GPS which is great for bike riding because it tracks everywhere you've been, tells you how long you've been riding and the distance you've ridden. You can even save the routes you've traveled and use them to navigate later. It's an awesome app. I normally use it for riding my ATV in Ocala national forest so I don't get lost but it works great for bicycling to. Also, There's a company named Quad lock that makes a great and very secure phone mount. It's a little pricey and you have to buy a special case, but they're fantastic. The phone will not fall off, even if you crash or your bike falls over. I bought it for my ATV first and my phone never once flinched, and I ride pretty hard. I ended up buying the compatible mounts for my car and bike so I only needed one case. Edit: I just saw that quad lock has most of their stuff 30% off right now for Black Friday sales

Bottom line is that I feel reasonably safe riding the trails as long as I am paying close attention to what's going on around me.

[airstreamingypsy]

I have a friend, who moved to TV because he's an avid bicyclist. Since moving here and joining bike clubs, and making friends, he has lost some because of drivers who have aimed or killed them. The thrill is gone for him, he hasn't ridden in months. He says it's just too dangerous. If you want to ride, better to go to the trail in Inverness, or Santos in Ocala.....

[garykoca427@gmail.com]

What I do is wear a helmet and ride the internal streets in my neighborhood.

[SHIBUMI]

/Users/richardiwaszko/Desktop/near collision.MP4




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.

[SHIBUMI]

You will find safe paths if you look and keep an eye on the weather. Bikes way to go......do 20 miles 6 days a week...sweet





/Users/richardiwaszko/Desktop/Rainy Day.mp4



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.

[sowilts]

You have two options first you can ride the roads doing 16 miles an hour while cars drive 30 to 60 miles an hour,(that on Meggison)

Or one can ride the internal streets your neighborhood feel a little safer, especially early in the morning, and on the weekends.

I also strongly suggest you wear a GoPro, that way if there should be any incidents, it can be recorded.

Plus later in the day you can review those who live in your neighborhood that drive like a crazy person.
It must be a challenge to get out of bed if that stops one from doing what they enjoy. I ride on the cart paths and pay close attention to my surroundings. Correct there are better times to ride. If one enjoys early morning rides or walks, there are fantastic led lights available. You must be seen to be seen. Sometimes i ride my bike too fast and have to be careful around tight curves and slow down. And slow down for walkers no matter which side of the path they choose. It only takes 10 seconds to let them have a safe journey. Enjoy what one likes to do and enjoy riding as I always do. A gentleman at Linden rides the path by the retention pond and takes a loop around neighborhood streets for 30 minutes or more every day. He is always enjoying his rides.

[Davonu]

I feel very safe on the MMP and diamond lanes. The key is anticipating when any carts will be in your vicinity and present them with an easy pass. Try to avoid being on a split section of the path when a cart approaches. And I ride a hybrid bicycle so I can pull onto the grass anytime I feel like it might be necessary. I feel much more in control of my own safety on the MMP than riding on the street. I do not like being constantly passed by cars going 45-50 mph or more. No amount of caution can save you if one of those cars makes a big mistake.

[MX rider]

As a longtime cyclist, TV is the safest place I've riden. In Virginia we were riding with vehicular traffic on busy roads. On the bike paths there, (no golf carts) there were plenty of near-misses and collisions. Wear a helmet, get lights on your bike for the low light times of day and be careful out there! The benefits outweigh the risks. Exercise is hugely important for our health!

Well said

[MX rider]

As a longtime cyclist, TV is the safest place I've riden. In Virginia we were riding with vehicular traffic on busy roads. On the bike paths there, (no golf carts) there were plenty of near-misses and collisions. Wear a helmet, get lights on your bike for the low light times of day and be careful out there! The benefits outweigh the risks. Exercise is hugely important for our health!

Both good comments here.

My wife and I are mountain bikers but we ride the MM path often. We wear helmets and have mirrors on our bikes. For the most part people are courtious, but you have to be aware.
When we come to the split lanes where there's a median we ride in the middle to avoid being passed in such a tight area. Every once in a while it p*sses somebody off but that's rare.

We have no interest in riding on the road. I still ride motocross, so I'm not risk averse, but riding on the road is too sketchy for me. Even back in Indiana.

All that said we mainly ride on the east side between the 466 and 466A

[ElDiabloJoe]

Just curious...were you running on the right or left side of the path? Were the bikes passing on you right shoulder or left shoulder?

Joe

Usually on the left side of the path - against traffic. Sometimes on the right, - with traffic, usually on the long straight paths that are ocean-front beach paths in So Cal.

Really, I ran on either depending on location.

Beachfront paths make for great training runs because they are very long (10 to 20 miles) and you can focus on your breathing pattern, hydration strategies, and pace rather than negotiating curbs and intersections.

[srswans]

... Would be interested to hear what cyclists have to say about their comfort and safety level when riding on the paths.

I ride three times a week on MMPs usually 20 miles each time.

I feel safe there.

I have the safety equipment that others have mentioned (helmet, bright clothes, front/rear blinking lights, rear-view mirror, GoPro,..)

FL says that overtakers need to give you three feet of room when passing. The law also says cyclists can take the whole lane.

There are posts and newspaper articles about close calls and crashes but the number of incidents is very small compared to miles ridden.

Practice defensive riding and enjoy.

[sasman29]

I prefer the walking paths but the cart paths are fine to ride a bike on. Got to keep watch for carts and fast bikers. Suggestion is to get a helmet mounted or handlebar mounted mirror. Keep to the right and single file. Enjoy!

[john352]

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.
When riding my bike solo or with one other person, I always used the MMP rather than riding on Buena Vista, etc. I have done so for many years. One important safety suggestion is, when there is an island in the middle of the MMP, keep your bike in the middle of your lane; if you are on the edge of your lane, some idiot in a golf cart may try to pass you.

[john352]

When riding my bike solo or with one other person, I always used the MMP rather than riding on Buena Vista, etc. I have done so for many years. One important safety suggestion is, when there is an island in the middle of the MMP, keep your bike in the middle of your lane; if you are on the edge of your lane, some idiot in a golf cart may try to pass you.

[srswans]

If you’ve been cycling all your life and on all surfaces, then the MPP is no big deal.

If you’ve been sedentary all your life and then decide to take up cycling on the MPP when you move to TV, you may be in for a shock. In this case, stick to Pathways.

Similarly, if driving a car scares you, stick to Pathways.

[Djean1981]

Personally, I would not do it. There are a lot of bad drivers here. If you do, ensure you were a helmet, where the fluorescent orange attire, have flashing LED lights, and ride during the day when visibility is better.

[Boffin]

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.

No.

[Happydaz]

No.

Are you a cyclist? The OP was looking for comments from experienced cyclists on their comfort and safety level when riding on the paths. As I said before, I have ridden a great deal on the paths and I feel comfortable riding on them as long as I use my rear mirror to know when I am being overtaken by a golf cart. If it is on a blind corner I just slow down to let the cart get beyond me quickly as if another cart coming the other way were to suddenly appear they would cut back into the right lane too soon and jeopardize my safety. Other than that scenario, I have ridden thousands of miles on the paths with few problems. In the last eight years I have ridden more on the roads and I only ride in large groups to improve visibility and increase the safety margin. I also ride a motorcycle around Ocala National Forest so I am very familiar with having lane presence so cars don’t run me off the road. Nothing is without risk but if you stay home and do nothing how much fun is that? More people in my neighborhood get injured playing pickleball or bending down to pick up the newspaper than I have in over ten years and 60,000 miles of cycling! Keeps me in great shape.

[MX rider]

Btw, its about a 30 minute drive up 301 to Santos Trailhead in Ocala. They have a 16 mile paved trail that goes out and back. There's a land bridge over I-75 as part of it. My wife loves to ride it when I'm hitting the dirt trails. It's mostly shaded, very safe and wide. Biking, running and walking only.

Santos Trailhead & Campground | Florida State Parks (https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/santos-trailhead-campground)

[Chi-Town]

If you are a safe and experienced rider I'll say maybe. If you think about the golf cart drivers around you then maybe not. So I'm gonna go with no.

[kingofbeer]

I recommend you also buy a bike rack for your car and take your bike to the Withlacoochee State Trail, Santos Campground, or similar. This is the safest way to go, as well as enjoyable. Otherwise it is a stressful ride on MMPs or the street.

If you HAVE to ride the MMPs. . .
1. Wear a helmet and reflective vest
2. Turn on your lights, flashing red in back at minimum
3. Use a mirror to see traffic behind you
4. If a cart comes up behind you, ride into the grass as soon as possible and let them pass
5. Ring your bell when you see people or other bikes in your path

If you ride the Hogeye or similar (no carts), ring your bell when you come up on people. It is stressful for people walking there - especially when the bikes are electric, running 15 MPH in total silence. I personally would like to see e-bikes banned from the Hogeye. It makes walking stressful when you have to keep looking over your shoulder for the surprise e-speeder.
If you HAVE to ride the MMPs. . .
1. Wear a helmet and reflective vest .. I always wear a helmet
2. Turn on your lights, flashing red in back at minimum ... I don't have either
3. Use a mirror to see traffic behind you ... I have one and check often
4. If a cart comes up behind you, ride into the grass as soon as possible and let them pass ... Never have done this. Don't expect to.
5. Ring your bell when you see people or other bikes in your path ... Do not have a bell

The bike that I ride goes at a slow speed. Approx 9 mph. I am equally concerned about impatient golf carts and bikes. One bike rider ticked me off at a stop sign at the entrance to my village and decided to pass me. I was at the stop sign first. I wanted to turn left and he wanted to go straight. Just a rude guy. He refused to let me make my turn first.

[ThirdOfFive]

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.
Safe? Well...

In my experience, from what I've seen, heard and read, bicyclists are as a group pretty much the pariahs of The Villages. Car drivers seem to get impatient with them on the streets because they travel in packs, clog up lanes, and often flout traffic laws with impunity. On the MMPs they reside in that niche between walkers and cart drivers, causing problems for both (and yeah...I know that it is maybe the walkers and cart drivers causing many of the problems, but the point is that if the bicycles weren't there, the problems attendant to them being there wouldn't be either).

Everything is relative. Judging from what I've seen and (sometimes) experienced, both on the MMPs and on the streets, anything short of an M1 Abrams is "unsafe" to a certain degree. Evaluate the risk and act accordingly.

[Cliff Fr]

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.

If you do I would wear a body cam

[Bitsee]

May I suggest that you
" Try before you Buy" you may decide it's not for you.
We go biking during the weekdays on the Santos bike trail outside of Ocala.
There's a bike rental place directly across from the Santos trail that you could rent a nice bike for the day.
That trail is beautiful and completely shaded...we absolutely love it .

There is no way I would ever ride my bike in The Villages again !

Too much traffic, too many people, and you are so busy navigating thru the golf carts and walkers you won't enjoy one second of your ride.

Just a suggestion ~

[Regorp]

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.

Pet peeve: bikes in the cart lane along Marsh Bend Trail when a safer route is the walking/bike path that runs right alongside the road. They get in the way of the golf carts that need to enter the automobile road to go by them. Dangerous for all!! Multi model path is much safer for bikes.

[jimmy o]

I've been riding bicycles since four years old. Never had a trike I started right into 2 wheeling at 4yrs old. Also did marathons and stunt riding. Since moving to TV I decided to give it up. I'm sure I could handle nearly any dangerous instance that might arise, but that one small chance of accident is too much now. I'm 72 years old and any accident recovery would be way more devastating than the exercise benefit and fun factor riding my bike gives me. Just too many slow reflexes here to make biking safe enough. I've hung up my wheels and totally enjoy tooling around in my golf cart. Good luck with whatever you decide.

[Fastskiguy]

Pet peeve: bikes in the cart lane along Marsh Bend Trail when a safer route is the walking/bike path that runs right alongside the road. They get in the way of the golf carts that need to enter the automobile road to go by them. Dangerous for all!! Multi model path is much safer for bikes.

With respect, those are the safest places to ride. The long runs on marsh bend, south meggasin, pinellas, hillsborough, and the Moyer loop are the best. It does require carts to actually make a genuine pass….which is a good thing vs sneaking by in a tight spot. E bikes make passing less of an issue. Surely the burden of safely passing a bike isn’t too much?

[mtdjed]

Another danger for bikers is that sometimes golfcarts stop for pedestrians and stop signs. This could be a hazard to many bike riders who seldom stop.

[westernrider75]

I recommend you also buy a bike rack for your car and take your bike to the Withlacoochee State Trail, Santos Campground, or similar. This is the safest way to go, as well as enjoyable. Otherwise it is a stressful ride on MMPs or the street.

If you HAVE to ride the MMPs. . .
1. Wear a helmet and reflective vest
2. Turn on your lights, flashing red in back at minimum
3. Use a mirror to see traffic behind you
4. If a cart comes up behind you, ride into the grass as soon as possible and let them pass
5. Ring your bell when you see people or other bikes in your path

If you ride the Hogeye or similar (no carts), ring your bell when you come up on people. It is stressful for people walking there - especially when the bikes are electric, running 15 MPH in total silence. I personally would like to see e-bikes banned from the Hogeye. It makes walking stressful when you have to keep looking over your shoulder for the surprise e-speeder.

No reason to be looking over your shoulder on the Hogeye, walkers should be walking on the left facing traffic, then you would see bikes coming towards you. Walkers on the wrong side are a big problem for bikers who are following the rules.

[drdoug59]

I find e-bike, which are really motor scooters to be the most dangerous. How do they consider it exercise when they have an electric motor and don’t get their heart rate up

[BigSteph]

I find e-bike, which are really motor scooters to be the most dangerous. How do they consider it exercise when they have an electric motor and don’t get their heart rate up

My E-bike goes 28 mph, but not one mile on its own. It has no throttle. It requires you to pedal for it assist at all. There are more types than you mention.

[Flyers999]

I've been riding bicycles since four years old. Never had a trike I started right into 2 wheeling at 4yrs old. Also did marathons and stunt riding. Since moving to TV I decided to give it up. I'm sure I could handle nearly any dangerous instance that might arise, but that one small chance of accident is too much now. I'm 72 years old and any accident recovery would be way more devastating than the exercise benefit and fun factor riding my bike gives me. Just too many slow reflexes here to make biking safe enough. I've hung up my wheels and totally enjoy tooling around in my golf cart. Good luck with whatever you decide.

How's the battle of your bulge coming along?

[mikeycereal]

Been living in the villages since 5/22 and walk the neighborhood streets and paths and golf cart on the MMP. Here's what I would do or wouldn't do. I wouldn't walk on the MMP. Too many fast carts flying through. It's too risky to walk the MMP having faith and trust in cart drivers. If I rode a bike I would be wary of both cart drivers and walkers. Golf cart drivers, myself included, will always try to go around a walker or bike rider. Our goal is always to get around a biker or walker so we can go our preferred speed and not theirs. Some drivers are more impatient than others and may take more chances passing. Saw one cart driver on the Brownwood bridge make an incredibly stupid move to get around a slower bike rider. He came too close to another cart coming the opposite way. When I walk the pond paths I always keep on 1 side, I would never walk directly in the middle because of bike riders. Facing a certain way is not always what you think, since the paths go both ways. For neighborhood roads I prefer to walk facing traffic. I don't know why some walkers don't and then I end up having to cross to the other side with my back to traffic.

[Fastskiguy]

I find e-bike, which are really motor scooters to be the most dangerous. How do they consider it exercise when they have an electric motor and don’t get their heart rate up

You really should try one, they're really fun and you get some exercise too :)

[Bay Kid]

I ride my bike on a trainer on my lanai. Much safer. Small gripe but bikers need to stop at stop signs.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

There are many people on here worried about what will happen if they ride a bike .and others telling bikers what’s going to happen to them , I try to follow many of the teachings of the Buddha here’s a quote I’ve always strived to live with “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past,worry about the future or anticipate trouble . But to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly . At the age of 85 it keeps making more and more sense , get out there live your life go where you want to go and do it now

[tophcfa]

I find e-bike, which are really motor scooters to be the most dangerous. How do they consider it exercise when they have an electric motor and don’t get their heart rate up

We have both e bikes and traditional bikes. The e bikes don’t have a throttle and are pedal assist only. The assist from the motor can be set anywhere from zero to turbo at 5% increments. No doubt the traditional bikes give the rider a better workout, but as we age eventually it will become increasingly difficult for us to ride a traditional bike. The e bikes will keep us riding much longer in life and can still give the rider a good workout. Obviously, a lesser workout is still way better than no workout at all. Even though we are still very capable of riding our traditional bikes on the flatlands of Florida, our e bikes are becoming increasingly necessary for us to ride in the very hilly terrain around our northern home. Ride On : )

[Berferful]

After reading all of the posts on this thread, I’m re-thinking sending my bike down. We’ll be down at the Villages renting Jan.- Mar. and I’m thinking that for the amount of riding I do, and the chaos on the MMP, I’d be better off leaving the bike home.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

After reading all of the posts on this thread, I’m re-thinking sending my bike down. We’ll be down at the Villages renting Jan.- Mar. and I’m thinking that for the amount of riding I do, and the chaos on the MMP, I’d be better off leaving the bike home. please take your bike ,do not pay attention to the complainers most have some kind of an agenda either for the bikes or against them , it’s the safest place I’ve ever ridden a bike

[Davonu]

please take your bike ,do not pay attention to the complainers most have some kind of an agenda either for the bikes or against them , it’s the safest place I’ve ever ridden a bike
I second this post. The MMP’s are also the safest place I’ve ever ridden my bike.

[ElDiabloJoe]

Another danger for bikers is that sometimes golfcarts stop for pedestrians and stop signs. This could be a hazard to many bike riders who seldom stop. ^ This! Rules for thee but not for meeeee!

[Tudor49]

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.
I’ve had an E-bike for 2 years and have ridden everywhere, use your mirrors and be mindful of golf carts coming and going. I have not had any issues with golf carts.

[DonH57]

I'm not surprised at how ill informed or entitled some villagers feel reading recent commentary and letters to the editor of the v******-N*** of how bikes and pedestrians need to stay off the multi modal cart paths referring to them only as cart paths. This arrogant attitude is not new by any means.

[Bruce3055]

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.

I didn’t realize bike riding was so hazardess. I thought the villages earned a bike friendly designation. And last I looked, there’s a lot of bike riding in the villages


I learned early on not to ride on the right edge of the mm path. Too many carts pass you without even moving over an inch. I was subject to getting hit by them or running into an overhanging bush or tree. By riding in the middle of the path , they know. They can’t just squeeze by and run me off the path in the process.


Anything can be dangerous at our age surrounded by old folks. Based on the comments cart riding is highly dangerous also. And I have read enough comments to know driving a car is dangerous also.

Heck even pickleball is dangerous unless you are in shape and warm up before you play, and used common with no back peddling to get a ball, and only play with folks you’ enjoy playing with.

I agree with other comments that it’s your decision to do what you’re comfortable with

Enjoy life and don’t lock yourself inside because it’s a jungle out there where accidents happen

[npwalters]

Short answer to the OP. It is not totally safe to ride a bike on any road/path. It is much safer on the MMPs.

[PersonOfInterest]

In the Villages if you want to stay SAFE and minimize the risk of accident or injury, don't play sports or golf or other physical activities. Stay home, watch TV and water your plants!

[westernrider75]

I find e-bike, which are really motor scooters to be the most dangerous. How do they consider it exercise when they have an electric motor and don’t get their heart rate up

My e-bike doesn’t move on its own, it requires me to pedal. There are types with a throttle, but not all.

[mickey100]

I ride a bike on the MM paths, and like someone said, there are certain areas where I ride in the middle of the path, because people will pass you with just inches to spare. I try to choose a time of day when it's not as busy. I wear a neon shirt or jacket, and have a blinking light on the bike.Yes, there are a lot of rude, discourteous cart drivers out there, but its much safer on the paths than in the road. There are also nice biking trails outside the Villages if you really want to avoid the golf carts.

[ThirdOfFive]

In the Villages if you want to stay SAFE and minimize the risk of accident or injury, don't play sports or golf or other physical activities. Stay home, watch TV and water your plants!
Point taken. If all we wanted to do was to live in a bubble we could do that anywhere. Why move here to do it?

Nevertheless TV does have some unique risks vis a vis path and street usage that most other places just don't have, and those risks are most evident this time of year. Most year-round TV'ers know the rules of the roads and paths, even though they are broken far too frequently at any time of the year. But when 'bird season rolls around the danger increases significantly, not so much by the increased number of people in cars, on bicycles, in golf carts, rollerblades, or whatever, but because many of them, not being regulars here, all too often THINK they know what to do, but don't. Read any of the threads about roundabout rules, who (cars or carts) have the right-of-way in certain situations, which side of the MMP walkers should walk on, etc. etc. and you'll see exactly what is meant by that. When two drivers/walkers/riders/whatever encounter one another in a dicey situation, possibly with differing ideas as to the correct mode of action in that situation, it can (and all too often does) end badly. Add a little booze to the mix, and--well...

I just follow some common-sense rules that have worked for me.

1.Don't believe signal lights. All too often people turn w/o using them or have forgotten they're on. Wait for the driver to actually make the move his lights are signaling. Kudos to those bicyclists and cart drivers who actually use hand signals.

2. When walking on an MMP walk on the LEFT side. Believe me, the way some folks drive around here, you'll want to see what is coming.

3. When walking on an MMP, step off the path and onto the grass, if possible, if a cart is approaching. I do this routinely and and receive uncounted friendly waves and thumbs-up for so doing. If two or more carts are meeting in my vicinity this is especially appreciated as neither one needs to slow down significantly or stop.

4. If your cart doesn't have seat belts, GET THEM INSTALLED! Most serious injuries or deaths occur when the operator or passengers are ejected from the carts. Any cart service shop can do that, or you can shell out $50 or so, get a kit from Amazon, and spend maybe 45 minutes or so with a drill and a couple of wrenches. Cheap insurance.

5. Use your head. It might be your right to walk or bike s-l-o-w-l-y down the middle of your lane when on an MMP and carts and e-bikes are buzzing around, but flesh and bone loses to steel and speed every time.

6. No matter what your mode of transportation, give the other guy room to screw up. All too often you won't be disappointed.

7. LEAVE THE ANGER AT HOME.

8. Above all, be courteous. I've never yet paid a price for that.

[TeresaE]

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.

There’s a phrase I learned in the Bahamas. “Remember your “Broughtupsy”! (Said Brought Up-See). It means remember your manners and treat people with respect. It includes being aware of your surroundings so you can act mannerly based on where you are, what is going on and who is around you.

In Greek it’s
Philotimo (φιλότιμο) The inner impulse to act well and in alignment with the moral virtues that represent one's own society and upbringing.

Western societies know it as The Golden Rule, “Do onto Others as you would do onto Yourself”.

Imagine what The Villages would be like if we all practiced this rule instead of acting like a bunch of self-centered children. There is nothing, NOTHING, so important (including Tee Times) that it justifies driving too fast for conditions and jeopardizing someone’s wellbeing.

Respect for one another and situation awareness should be the norm, especially in a 55+ community where many of our neighbors aren’t as agile as they used to be. One fall, one break, one bad situation here can be life threatening.

So please start watching out for each other, put a smile on your face and SLOW DOWN” We all have more sunrises behind us than ahead of us. Let’s enjoy them together.

Happy Holidays.

[TeresaE]

point taken. If all we wanted to do was to live in a bubble we could do that anywhere. Why move here to do it?

Nevertheless tv does have some unique risks vis a vis path and street usage that most other places just don't have, and those risks are most evident this time of year. Most year-round tv'ers know the rules of the roads and paths, even though they are broken far too frequently at any time of the year. But when 'bird season rolls around the danger increases significantly, not so much by the increased number of people in cars, on bicycles, in golf carts, rollerblades, or whatever, but because many of them, not being regulars here, all too often think they know what to do, but don't. Read any of the threads about roundabout rules, who (cars or carts) have the right-of-way in certain situations, which side of the mmp walkers should walk on, etc. Etc. And you'll see exactly what is meant by that. When two drivers/walkers/riders/whatever encounter one another in a dicey situation, possibly with differing ideas as to the correct mode of action in that situation, it can (and all too often does) end badly. Add a little booze to the mix, and--well...

I just follow some common-sense rules that have worked for me.

1.don't believe signal lights. All too often people turn w/o using them or have forgotten they're on. Wait for the driver to actually make the move his lights are signaling. Kudos to those bicyclists and cart drivers who actually use hand signals.

2. When walking on an mmp walk on the left side. Believe me, the way some folks drive around here, you'll want to see what is coming.

3. When walking on an mmp, step off the path and onto the grass, if possible, if a cart is approaching. I do this routinely and and receive uncounted friendly waves and thumbs-up for so doing. If two or more carts are meeting in my vicinity this is especially appreciated as neither one needs to slow down significantly or stop.

4. If your cart doesn't have seat belts, get them installed! Most serious injuries or deaths occur when the operator or passengers are ejected from the carts. Any cart service shop can do that, or you can shell out $50 or so, get a kit from amazon, and spend maybe 45 minutes or so with a drill and a couple of wrenches. Cheap insurance.

5. Use your head. It might be your right to walk or bike s-l-o-w-l-y down the middle of your lane when on an mmp and carts and e-bikes are buzzing around, but flesh and bone loses to steel and speed every time.

6. No matter what your mode of transportation, give the other guy room to screw up. All too often you won't be disappointed.

7. Leave the anger at home.

8. Above all, be courteous. I've never yet paid a price for that.

well said!

[ThirdOfFive]

There’s a phrase I learned in the Bahamas. “Remember your “Broughtupsy”! (Said Brought Up-See). It means remember your manners and treat people with respect. It includes being aware of your surroundings so you can act mannerly based on where you are, what is going on and who is around you.

In Greek it’s
Philotimo (φιλότιμο) The inner impulse to act well and in alignment with the moral virtues that represent one's own society and upbringing.

Western societies know it as The Golden Rule, “Do onto Others as you would do onto Yourself”.

Imagine what The Villages would be like if we all practiced this rule instead of acting like a bunch of self-centered children. There is nothing, NOTHING, so important (including Tee Times) that it justifies driving too fast for conditions and jeopardizing someone’s wellbeing.

Respect for one another and situation awareness should be the norm, especially in a 55+ community where many of our neighbors aren’t as agile as they used to be. One fall, one break, one bad situation here can be life threatening.

So please start watching out for each other, put a smile on your face and SLOW DOWN” We all have more sunrises behind us than ahead of us. Let’s enjoy them together.

Happy Holidays.


Imagine what The Villages would be like if we all practiced this rule instead of acting like a bunch of self-centered children. There is nothing, NOTHING, so important (including Tee Times) that it justifies driving too fast for conditions and jeopardizing someone’s wellbeing.

!!!!!

[Happydaz]

Just think of the multimodal paths as in the movie Death Race 2000. Any golf cart driver that runs down anyone over 90 years old gets a bonus 100 points. Cyclists earn more points than pedestrians. Since the golf cart drivers are usually drunk, a cyclist stands the best chance of dodging them. I consider myself a winner if I make it home alive.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/golfing-in-tv/10325-death-race.jpg https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/golfing-in-tv/10326-death-race-points.jpg

Golf carts are the most dangerous thing on the multi modal paths and diamond lanes on the roads. I have been here for over ten years and there have been a number of fatalities of walkers and bicyclists caused by golf cart drivers. Walkers and bicyclists have caused no fatalities yet everyone blames them. We need to focus more on the golf cart drivers. They need to slow down and not pass on blind curves. This is a retirement community. People are out exercising and enjoying themselves so try to be more polite and not look at everyone going slower than you are as an obstacle. The MMP’s are not golf cart highways they are paths for joggers, walkers, bicyclists, roller bladers and yes, golf carters. Slow down and enjoy the beauty of The Villages. If you need to get somewhere fast take your car.

[ThirdOfFive]

Golf carts are the most dangerous thing on the multi modal paths and diamond lanes on the roads. I have been here for over ten years and there have been a number of fatalities of walkers and bicyclists caused by golf cart drivers. Walkers and bicyclists have caused no fatalities yet everyone blames them. We need to focus more on the golf cart drivers. They need to slow down and not pass on blind curves. This is a retirement community. People are out exercising and enjoying themselves so try to be more polite and not look at everyone going slower than you are as an obstacle. The MMP’s are not golf cart highways they are paths for joggers, walkers, bicyclists, roller bladers and yes, golf carters. Slow down and enjoy the beauty of The Villages. If you need to get somewhere fast take your car.
Good points.

An example of what is being dealt with on the MMPs: A couple of years ago we came up on the back of a cart traveling at barely walking speed. When we got close enough we saw one of those white canes used by sight-handicapped folks strapped to the back of the cart. True story.

An extreme example, granted; but the point is that there are people tooling around in carts that do not qualify for driver's licenses, or who have had theirs taken for whatever infraction. Golf carts weigh in the neighborhood of 800 lbs. to over half a ton. So--quick calculation: a 1,000 lb. cart moving at 20 mph is carrying over six TONS of kinetic energy (13,371.72 ft. lbs. to be exact). Put another way, that is roughly the same amount of splat suffered by a 180 lb. person falling off a six-story building. No thank you.

You can't be too cautious.

[Byte1]

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.

In the Villages? Surely you jest? It is not safe to travel by bike, golf cart or car in the Villages. It's not even safe to walk anywhere in the Villages, including Walmart, let alone crossing a parking lot from your car to the store. :gc:

[Beachbabe]

I ride my bike daily and have never had a problem but prefer the bike paths because its safer.

[Margterrymcg]

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.
I think you’re better off on Morse or Stillwater-you ride in breakdown lane and there is plenty of room Bike paths are narrow and when two carts are passing you’re pushed on the grass

[VApeople]

Bike paths are narrow and when two carts are passing you’re pushed on the grass

Golf carts are forbidden on the walking/biking paths.

[asianthree]

In the Villages? Surely you jest? It is not safe to travel by bike, golf cart or car in the Villages. It's not even safe to walk anywhere in the Villages, including Walmart, let alone crossing a parking lot from your car to the store. :gc:

You could be very correct, two days in a row, I parked in single business parking. Exit my car, stop at the bumper to look for cars.

Both days car drivers seem to be going to a fire on a 1000 ft drive. Locking up brakes, within 10’ of stop sign when they saw me.

Then flipped me off, (still waiting with protection of my car.) my guess, they were going to blow through the 🛑, into the road. Both cars FL plates.

I wouldn’t cross in front of their car prefer to wait for them to pass. Then got flipped off for a second time. My thoughts are sooner or later they will hit something in the parking lot, hopefully it will just be a 🚙

[Flyers999]

One very important thing to be aware of when biking around seniors who are driving any type of vehicle - the rising or setting sun. If it's shinning on your back, drivers may not be able to see you very well. It seems to be more pronounce here due to the lack of tall buildings that can block the sun.
This is what happened to that poor gentleman who got killed by a driver who was making a left hand turn. Driver claimed that she never saw him. (This was on an internal street too, which I earlier claimed were the safest.)
But these things happen and one shouldn't live by the lowest common denominator. The villages is a great place for biking.