Bicycle riding rules

[ureout]

This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere to

[asianthree]

i pod only one ear so you can hear whats going on around you. but to blow thur a stop sign so they can keep up the pace is telling everyone rules don't apply to the club. unless this was a posted race they were wrong not to stop

[cybermuda]

... to blow thur a stop sign so they can keep up the pace...they were wrong not to stop

illegal, certainly, but what would you do if you were in a pack of 20 cyclists?

Assuming two abreast, you would still form a line ten cyclists long and, each time a new pair got to the Stop sign, the line would stop. Then two would go off the front, the line would move forward one bike length, and the new front pair would stop.

As long as they slowed sufficiently to ensure their path was clear then you really can't expect them to do anything else.

Just because the person wearing earphones didn't like being told he was in the wrong...

[ureout]

there is a bigggg difference in slowing and blowing thru full speed and as I posted it was full speed and whether I was right or wrong listening to my I pod...if you are going to point it out to me then follow the rules yourself

[zcaveman]

I was behind a "pack" and they kept coming out of the bicycle lanes into the car lanes. By law I have to give them 3 feet but what do I do when it forces me across the double line because they don't want to ride single file?

Obviously they have no respect for stop signs. STOP signs say STOP, I don't care if they have to stretch out into a long group. STOP means STOP.

Rules are rules. Everyone should follow them. Even the bike riders.

[buggyone]

illegal, certainly, but what would you do if you were in a pack of 20 cyclists?

Assuming two abreast, you would still form a line ten cyclists long and, each time a new pair got to the Stop sign, the line would stop. Then two would go off the front, the line would move forward one bike length, and the new front pair would stop.

As long as they slowed sufficiently to ensure their path was clear then you really can't expect them to do anything else.

Just because the person wearing earphones didn't like being told he was in the wrong...

The STOP sign means STOP - it does not mean slow sufficiently. I don't believe I have seen a traffic sign in The Villages that says "SLOW SUFFICIENTLY, PLEASE".

Next time you are on the street - not multi-modal trail - slow up at a STOP sign when you see a police officer there and go right through. Explain that you slowed sufficiently and that is good as a full stop.

[Bogie Shooter]

illegal, certainly, but what would you do if you were in a pack of 20 cyclists?

Assuming two abreast, you would still form a line ten cyclists long and, each time a new pair got to the Stop sign, the line would stop. Then two would go off the front, the line would move forward one bike length, and the new front pair would stop.As long as they slowed sufficiently to ensure their path was clear then you really can't expect them to do anything else.

Just because the person wearing earphones didn't like being told he was in the wrong...

How is this different than a line fo cars??

[cybermuda]

there is a bigggg difference in slowing and blowing thru full speed and as I posted it was full speed and whether I was right or wrong listening to my I pod...if you are going to point it out to me then follow the rules yourself

well, to be fair, you just said "blow thru" in your original post, no mention of full speed

for safety's sake, they should have slowed down sufficiently to get a good look, and be able to stop if necessary

and, yes, legally they should have stopped, but that's cyclists for you.

[normgreg]

Whether your vehicle has two wheels or ten wheels, STOP signs require stopping. Same thing goes for our gates. Cars & trucks stop, cyclists don't feel the need.

[gomoho]

I for one am grateful they were on the path and not the road!
Can't for the life of me understand why one would choose the roadway instead of that lovely, smooth, paved path with no cars.

[paulandjean]

Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

[Ragman]

Some cyclists obey all traffic laws,are careful and "share the road" in the proper way.

Unfortunately most (and not just in TV) think everyone should yield to them anytime, anywhere.

It works both ways.

:wave:

[dkrhardy]

Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

Oh my, you just GOTTA explain that one! :popcorn: That has got to be one juicy story!
Don

[villages07]

Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

Paulandjean. ... That's a pretty serious accusation. Do you have any facts or proof to back it up? If you were being funny/sarcastic, a smiley would have been appropriate so folks don't take this seriously.

[Bogie Shooter]

Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

I reread this.................a smiley would have appropriate.:undecided:

[JoeC1947]

This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere to

Two wrongs don't make a right. You were wrong and should not have been wearing headphones it is illegal. So clean your own house first.

[rhood]

Two wrongs don't make a right. You were wrong and should not have been wearing headphones it is illegal. So clean your own house first.

What statute is that ?

[Richard1366]

Having ridden a bicycle from Seattle WA to Washington DC with 700 others, riding 2 abreast on roads is simply not a good idea. A club of cyclists should have a set of rules, which state, among other things, always wear a helmet, obey all traffic signals, and don't ride side by side

[cathyw]

Florida statute section 316.304 covers that, making the use of headphones illegal.
Florida Bicycle Laws (http://www.floridabicycle.org/rules/bikelaw.html)

[Joaniesmom]

This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere to

Maybe they were going from a funeral home to a cemetary? ;)

[Joaniesmom]

i pod only one ear so you can hear whats going on around you. but to blow thur a stop sign so they can keep up the pace is telling everyone rules don't apply to the club. unless this was a posted race they were wrong not to stop

Once again, you came up with a good idea.

[paulandjean]

Paulandjean. ... That's a pretty serious accusation. Do you have any facts or proof to back it up? If you were being funny/sarcastic, a smiley would have been appropriate so folks don't take this seriously.

Are you for "real"?????????????????????? Man,lighten up you are waaayyyy to serious.....

[JoeC1947]

Maybe they were going from a funeral home to a cemetary? ;)

LOL, Did they have their headlights on?

[Russ_Boston]

Personally I have no problem with the bike gang going through as one unit. Assuming the first rider stops before proceeding. Yes, I know the law but some groups are 30 strong. Imagine being behind them? I've seen some groups where the first rider will stop to insure that the way is clear for the group to follow.

In my opinion, wearing headphones while out riding anything is not a good idea. Not sure of the law but it sure helps to hear what's going on around you. I don't even like wearing them while I run, too many close calls. I don't wear them any longer.

[JoeC1947]

Once again, you came up with a good idea.

No, not a good idea. With only 1 ear to listen to listen to traffic and whatnot you can't tell the direction of the sound.

[JoeC1947]

Personally I have no problem with the bike gang going through as one unit. Assuming the first rider stops before proceeding. Yes, I know the law but some groups are 30 strong. Imagine being behind them? I've seen some groups where the first rider will stop to insure that the way is clear for the group to follow.

In my opinion, wearing headphones while out riding anything is not a good idea. Not sure of the law but it sure helps to hear what's going on around you. I don't even like wearing them while I run, too many close calls. I don't wear them any longer.

Spot on Russ. The number one rule to survival is to be aware of your surroundings.

[Challenger]

Personally I have no problem with the bike gang going through as one unit. Assuming the first rider stops before proceeding. Yes, I know the law but some groups are 30 strong. Imagine being behind them? I've seen some groups where the first rider will stop to insure that the way is clear for the group to follow.

In my opinion, wearing headphones while out riding anything is not a good idea. Not sure of the law but it sure helps to hear what's going on around you. I don't even like wearing them while I run, too many close calls. I don't wear them any longer.

Headphones = dangerous limitation of situational awareness while in motion on highly traveled roads. Bad practice

[Barefoot]

...

[JoeC1947]

Villages07 is right. I often don't know how to take the comments that Paulandjean make, whether they're meant to be a joke or serious. A smiley would help.

First I'd say that Paulandjean does have a unique sense of humor but I don't know how anyone could have thought he/she was serious when he/she wrote....

Originally Posted by paulandjean View Post
Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

Carry on Paulandjean! Humor is the best medicine!

[dp000]

The law is the law. You can't do a rolling stop in a car, so you can't do it in a bike. Of course most people who ride bikes are above the law.

[JoeC1947]

the law is the law. You can't do a rolling stop in a car, so you can't do it in a bike. Of course most people who ride bikes are above the law.

uh-oh.........

[paulandjean]

Villages07 is right. I often don't know how to take the comments that Paulandjean make, whether they're meant to be a joke or serious. A smiley would help.

Wearing their colors,you know thats what gangs do ,Bloods ,Crips..Not 65 year old bicycle riders. Spray paints cans, you know to mark thir territory. Gang squad of county sheriff to investigate60,65,70 year olds. Think maybe what I was trying to say was meant for a younger crowd. Do you know of any 65 or 70 year old who are in a village gang that ride bicycles. Not ready for smiley faces yet.

[GaryW]

One person makes a comment on cyclist going thru a stop sign, and you cats assume that it is true. Then you want to beat up all cyclist. Sounds like the original poster was upset because he or she got called out. So now you try to reverse it on the group. I do not know if they did or did run a stop sign. But I do know I see cars, Motorcycles, Cyclist and golf carts and doing the same, and oh yea the SCSO seem them do it also. Come on already, everyone relax. Another day in TV.....

[mike_enship]

So if you have 20 cars....passing one car with headphones...all 20 cars can run a stop sign? Sounds like South American road rules...LOL Have you ever been in a cab in Lima, Sao Paulo or Mexico City? Make sure your life insurance is paid up!

[cybermuda]

As others have already stated very eloquently:

Nobody is saying that it is legal for cyclists to go through stop signs, but they do, so get over it. No amount of bitching in TOTV is going to stop them.

Rather, be aware of it and adjust your driving accordingly. Sure, they are in the wrong, but if you hit a line of cyclists just to make a point then what does that say about you?

[Bruiser1]

The STOP sign means STOP - it does not mean slow sufficiently. I don't believe I have seen a traffic sign in The Villages that says "SLOW SUFFICIENTLY, PLEASE".

Next time you are on the street - not multi-modal trail - slow up at a STOP sign when you see a police officer there and go right through. Explain that you slowed sufficiently and that is good as a full stop.

A State Trooper was amazed when a driver "slowed down significantly" at a STOP sign. Since he had time he pulled over the driver. "Did you see the sign?" "yeh" the driver replied. "What did you do?"

The driver replied " I yust ooooozed into the intersection."
Trooper said " lets look at the sign. What does it say?"

"Stop!" he says proudly.

"Next time you see one that says ooze then you can ooze through the intersection!"

[buggyone]

Don't worry about the 20 or so cyclists who sped through the STOP sign.

The laugh will be on them when they receive their citations in the mail for not stopping at the STOP sign. They obviously forgot about the RFID chip that was implanted in their neck when they got their Villages ID Card when buying their house. The chip readers in the STOP signs gets a lot of scofflaws each and every month.

[dkrhardy]

I feel bad for the poor car driver that has a line of cycles cut across in front of him/her ... should that driver hit one of the cyclists, I fear that the car driver will be found at fault. Stop sign or not, I have an uneasy feeling that the car driver would be the one held at fault. Big bad car vs innocent little "bike". Or, hitting the brakes hard and a following car hits car #1. Bet the cycles are long gone.
Don

[paulandjean]

First I'd say that Paulandjean does have a unique sense of humor but I don't know how anyone could have thought he/she was serious when he/she wrote....

Originally Posted by paulandjean View Post
Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

Carry on Paulandjean! Humor is the best medicine!

Thanks JoeC1947,

[ilovetv]

I was behind a "pack" and they kept coming out of the bicycle lanes into the car lanes. By law I have to give them 3 feet but what do I do when it forces me across the double line because they don't want to ride single file?

Obviously they have no respect for stop signs. STOP signs say STOP, I don't care if they have to stretch out into a long group. STOP means STOP.

Rules are rules. Everyone should follow them. Even the bike riders.

I'm shocked to hear of a case of bicycle riders IN the bike lanes! What I see most often is bicyclists using the car lanes when they could/should be using the unmatched miles of bike/cart lanes.

Some seem to have a death wish, especially in the car lanes on the Morse Bridge between LSL and 466......s-l-o-w-l-y peddlin' along on a recumbent bike that is very hard to see amidst car traffic! I dread the thought of hitting one of them.

[BentBoy]

I see more golf carts blow thru stop signs than bikes

[mickey100]

PaulaJean - thanks for the laugh! Enough bitc#ing about bike riders - its really getting old.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Thread resurrected from July 2012.....

Bill :)

[LndLocked]

First, it is illegal by state statue (link was posted earlier) to wear headphones / buds while operation a bicycle on public roads. I doubt this would apply to the multimodel paths, HOWEVER it is a very bad and dangerous idea to be unable to hear golf cart traffic approaching from the rear.

Second all of the teeth gnashing about cyclists (and walkers, joggers and dogs in other threads) are a reminder of why I miss my beloved beach area so very very much. There; biking, walking, dogs, skateboarding, jogging, roller blading and in some cares crawling home from the pubs ;-) are a way of LIFE. Everyone understands and stops to let people on bikes ( or skates or jogging or crawling) .... "blow through" stop signs, because it is understood what a pain it is to stop and start on a bike. Everyone just slows down and gives all of these groups a wide berth because it is no big deal!!

[tzangrilli]

Wow, so many strong opinions. The walkers hate the golf carts, the golf carts hate the bike riders, the bike riders hate the cars, the cars hate the trucks. Must be Florida's friendliest hometown, right?
I blame the sherriff. In two weeks the sherriff can fix all the problems by writing tickets for all traffic violations. Pedestrian, golf cart, cars, and bicycles. I have NEVER been out and not seen speeding, not stopping for stop signs, not stopping before turning right on red, stopping on crosswalks, illegal lane changes, not stopping for open gates, to name a few.
As soon as the tickets are issued the word will travel and everyone will be safer.

[gemorc]

Wow, so many strong opinions. The walkers hate the golf carts, the golf carts hate the bike riders, the bike riders hate the cars, the cars hate the trucks. Must be Florida's friendliest hometown, right?
I blame the sherriff. In two weeks the sherriff can fix all the problems by writing tickets for all traffic violations. Pedestrian, golf cart, cars, and bicycles. I have NEVER been out and not seen speeding, not stopping for stop signs, not stopping before turning right on red, stopping on crosswalks, illegal lane changes, not stopping for open gates, to name a few.
As soon as the tickets are issued the word will travel and everyone will be safer.

Great! When the sheriff starts doing his job, wait to see all the new threads about Speed Traps.

[champion6]

I see more golf carts blow thru stop signs than bikesNope. I cannot agree!

[GaryW]

Great! When the sheriff starts doing his job, wait to see all the new threads about Speed Traps.

Agree 1000 % :bigbow:

[GaryW]

Nope. I cannot agree!

Get out more,, you will see.
See it everyday. Sit here and read these boards and then sit back and think how many cars and golf carts are doing the same,,,, Heck there is a new post about a car running a red lite on 466 and BV this morning,,, It is everywhere. But if the Local Law Enforcement start patrolling more and handing out free invitations for a mandatory donation to the county, then there will be a thread on how they are putting up speed traps and so on............ :evil6:

[mickey100]

I see more golf carts blow thru stop signs than bikes

I agree, and there must be at least 10 times more golf carts than bicycles in TV. And its not just blowing thru stop signs - how about speeding golf carts in general? The multi modal paths were designed for walkers, bikers, and golf carts to share the path. This was back when golf carts went about 14 mph. Now you get carts going 25 mph. No wonder there are issues.

[mickey100]

First, it is illegal by state statue (link was posted earlier) to wear headphones / buds while operation a bicycle on public roads. I doubt this would apply to the multimodel paths, HOWEVER it is a very bad and dangerous idea to be unable to hear golf cart traffic approaching from the rear.

Second all of the teeth gnashing about cyclists (and walkers, joggers and dogs in other threads) are a reminder of why I miss my beloved beach area so very very much. There; biking, walking, dogs, skateboarding, jogging, roller blading and in some cares crawling home from the pubs ;-) are a way of LIFE. Everyone understands and stops to let people on bikes ( or skates or jogging or crawling) .... "blow through" stop signs, because it is understood what a pain it is to stop and start on a bike. Everyone just slows down and gives all of these groups a wide berth because it is no big deal!!

Totally agree. :bigbow:

[Cisco Kid]

I think TV needs a drone to track bicycles

[Barefoot]

I see more golf carts blow thru stop signs than bikes

Nope. I cannot agree!

I think it's more noticeable when bikes blow through a stop sign. One golf cart blows a stop sign, not too noticeable. But with bikes, there is often a group of 10 or 15 riders.

[LndLocked]

I agree, and there must be at least 10 times more golf carts than bicycles in TV. And its not just blowing thru stop signs - how about speeding golf carts in general? The multi modal paths were designed for walkers, bikers, and golf carts to share the path. This was back when golf carts went about 14 mph. Now you get carts going 25 mph. No wonder there are issues.

more like in the range of 100's to 1

[paulandjean]

I think TV needs a drone to track bicycles

I think that is a great idea.

[GaryW]

Some Good Reading on Cycling.

Group Riding Guidelines (http://www.floridabicycle.org/rules/groups.html)



Stop Signs and Red Lights
Lead riders should stop at all stop signs and red lights�always respecting the right-of-way of others

Stop in the right-most lane in the direction of the route:

When traveling straight, use the right-most thru lane�never travel straight in a right-turn only lane. Merge left from a shoulder or bike lane to prevent right-turning motorists from cutting you off.
When turing right, use a right-turn only lane (if one is available)�do not stay in a shoulder or bike lane, this can cause the group to be pinched in the turn by a right-turning motorist.
When turning left, use the right-most left turn lane, unless the group plans to make another left turn from the new road.
At a stop, bunch-up and take control of the lane. This allows the group to proceed through the intersection as rapidly as possible. When it is time to move, accelerate up to speed (cross the intersection before clipping into the other pedal). After the intersection, the group should move into a line to the right as appropriate. Lead riders should slow to allow everyone to regroup.

Generally, it�s better to stop in the line of traffic and not pass stopped motorists on the right. When passing a queue of stopped traffic, lead riders should consider the following:

Is it possible that a motorist could turn right across the path of the cyclists?
Will passing be easy (bike lane or paved shoulder) or difficult (narrow lane) for motorists downstream of the signal?
A lead rider who does pass on the right should not overtake the lead car in a stopped queue. Although stopped motorists preparing to turn right are supposed to signal and be positioned as far right as practical, some neglect to do this. At a stop sign or light, only pass a single motorist on the left if he or she is preparing to make a right turn.

Never lean on stopped motor vehicles.

[paulandjean]

First I'd say that Paulandjean does have a unique sense of humor but I don't know how anyone could have thought he/she was serious when he/she wrote....

Originally Posted by paulandjean View Post
Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

Carry on Paulandjean! Humor is the best medicine!

Its over two years old and I still get a kick out of this one.Thanks JoeC1947 maybe I do have a unique sense of humor.

[jflynn1]

This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere to


Manyfdays I see bicycle riders riding in either single file or two abreast in the middle lane of the road. The gfroups seem to feel they do not have to yield to traffic.

These are county roads, they need to obey the rules of the county. This is also true regarding the Golf Carts that are "street legal"

[tzangrilli]

Hope you realize the law says bicycles can ride up to 2 abreast as long as there is another lane for cars to pass safely.
Street legal carts can travel on any road that has a posted speed of 35 MPH or less. By law these carts cannot exceed 25 MPH.
These are not The Villages rules, they are Florida laws.

[Down Sized]

I read the statutes on bike riding that was marked from a previous post. There was a lot of information in the rules that I didn't know being new to Florida. There were several rules that is more lenient for the cyclist than where I came from. I didn't see anything about wearing EAR BUDS while riding a bike. I'm not talking about the giant earmuffs like the older generation retirees wear. iPhone ear buds lets a person hear everything that is going around them. Provided that person isn't already half deaf anyway.
Before the hard core posters jump all over this, I want to say that I ride usually by myself. I ride about two hours a day on trails when available. I yield to carts. Ride to the right so carts can pass all the time. In the six months that I have been here, I have not had a negative situation but many positives ones while riding my bicycle. I've had carts and car yield to me many times when it wasn't required and vice versa.

Now I will get the:popcorn: out and wait.

[blueeagle65]

Gee - all this time I was under the impression that cyclists in TV (especially those with their Lance shirts and pants) didn't have to obey ANY traffic laws. It sure seems so if you watch them riding on the streets of TV. I have yet to see one stop at a STOP sign :sad:

[Russ_Boston]

I know that I'm a contrarian much of the time but my opinion (after being here full time for 1 year now) is that traffic is too SLOW not too fast. I had a person yesterday on my way to work at 6 AM actually STOP at the roundabout instead of yield. It was obvious, very obvious, that no one was coming. It's a yield people, a yield. Look it up.

[mickey100]

I agree Russ - and most of the time the slow drivers are in the left lane where the fast driver should be!

[CFrance]

I agree Russ - and most of the time the slow drivers are in the left lane where the fast driver should be!

Those are the ones from Michigan. :wave:

[Trayderjoe]

Those are the ones from Michigan. :wave:

Hey! I resemble that remark! :cold: :laugh:

[CFrance]

Hey! I resemble that remark! :cold: :laugh:

Well, I love Michigan, but driving slow on the left seems to be an inborn trait!

[CFrance]

Hey! I resemble that remark! :cold: :laugh:

Also, then I've probably followed you down I 96! :icon_bored:

[paulandjean]

Those are the ones from Michigan. :wave:

Driving slow to avoid potholes.

[CFrance]

Driving slow to avoid potholes.

Ha ha! You got that right!

[Trayderjoe]

Also, then I've probably followed you down I 96! :icon_bored:

I don't travel much on 96, but I am actually from NJ. I made a wrong turn on 75 and ended up in Michigan. :smiley: I too find people driving slow in the left hand lane.....well annoying. In NJ we had a nickname for such people, but I will defer on that name for obvious reasons.

[Russ_Boston]

Well, I love Michigan, but driving slow on the left seems to be an inborn trait!

Holy crap - I just told my wife the other day that most times I see a car like that it is either Michigan or Illinois. Honest!

[justjim]

I for one am grateful they were on the path and not the road!
Can't for the life of me understand why one would choose the roadway instead of that lovely, smooth, paved path with no cars.

WHOA! Please don't give the Bike Club an idea----can you imagine a cart trail with a pack of 20 bikes on it??? Why I would never get to my tee-time!

[kimball]

illegal, certainly, but what would you do if you were in a pack of 20 cyclists?

Assuming two abreast, you would still form a line ten cyclists long and, each time a new pair got to the Stop sign, the line would stop. Then two would go off the front, the line would move forward one bike length, and the new front pair would stop.

As long as they slowed sufficiently to ensure their path was clear then you really can't expect them to do anything else.

Just because the person wearing earphones didn't like being told he was in the wrong...

Absolutely wrong! The law is the law. Stop signs are for everyone. Bike rider packs are the most flagrant violators. Maybe there should be Bike Rider Parks just like there are dog parks where the rules of the road don't apply. That way they won't endanger others who get in their way!

[CFrance]

I don't travel much on 96, but I am actually from NJ. I made a wrong turn on 75 and ended up in Michigan. :smiley: I too find people driving slow in the left hand lane.....well annoying. In NJ we had a nickname for such people, but I will defer on that name for obvious reasons.

We lived in NJ for three years, so I can probably guess what that nickname is! Good for you for keeping this forum clean :p

[Nana18]

This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere to

The bikers think they own the road I just - a half hour ago - had an incident with a man who cut me off on his bike as I was heading into my Village. I tapped my horn and he almost tipped over and started swearing at me. It is a big problem with the bikes in here - also they come to Panera Bread and sit for hours. I am grateful that I did not hit that man on the bike.

[Lisa99]

I don't live in the Villages yet and this thread is making us have second thoughts about even looking there since we're avid cyclists. I guess people aren't aware that many cities and states have passed laws that allow a bicycle to proceed through an intersection with a stop sign or a red light without fully stopping as long as it is safe to do so.

And what's wrong with sitting at an establishment for hours? I presume they've bought something so unless there is a line waiting for tables who cares if they sit there for days?

[CFrance]

I don't live in the Villages yet and this thread is making us have second thoughts about even looking there since we're avid cyclists. I guess people aren't aware that many cities and states have passed laws that allow a bicycle to proceed through an intersection with a stop sign or a red light without fully stopping as long as it is safe to do so.

And what's wrong with sitting at an establishment for hours? I presume they've bought something so unless there is a line waiting for tables who cares if they sit there for days?

I know they have been "opening up conversation" about relaxing some of the cyclist road rules in some municipalities, but I had not followed through on where it has been passed. Do you have any specifics on where it has gone through? I'm thinking maybe it might have gone through in NYC.

Even the League of American Bicyclists' first rule of the road is:

1. Follow the law.

Your safety and the image of bicyclists depend on you. You have the same rights and duties as drivers. Obey traffic signals and stop signs. Ride with traffic; use the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are going.

There is an interactive map o that site where you can click on a state to view its bike rules. Can be found here League of American Bicyclists * Legal Program/Bike Laws (http://www.bikeleague.org/action/bikelaws/)

[CFrance]

Holy crap - I just told my wife the other day that most times I see a car like that it is either Michigan or Illinois. Honest!

I rest my case.

[Russ_Boston]

The thing I don't understand is how some people are upset that the bikers are not stopping, one by one, for a stop sign. Is this actually bothering you in some way or you just the type of person who is upset when 'laws' are not followed. I say let the whole gang go through 'en mass'. It makes things a lot smoother. Imagine waiting for a gang of 30 riders to go through with each person making a complete stop. The wait would be interminable!

[rubicon]

Here is what I know:
-Bicycles are vehicles by definition in every state vehicle laws in the country.
-Bicycles being designated as vehicles require the cyclist to obey all traffic laws, rules of the road or whatver you choose to call them.
-If a bicyclist failes to come to a complete stop where required
-In Florida it is where you find a stop sign or a wide white line.
-My wife stopped at the Lynnhaven gate and proceeded forward very slowly attempting to turn right onto Route 472. An officer stopped her and told her she did not come to a complete stop and issued her a ticket.
-Since bikes are vehicles slowing but not stopping where required is unlawful.
I suspect bicyclist especially in large groups may find it annoying to stop but then I am annoyed that their annoyance is placing us all in danger.
-Finally my personal experience with bicylists is that most practice safety. However like car or cart drivers some are just too cavalier for my taste

[justjim]

The thing I don't understand is how some people are upset that the bikers are not stopping, one by one, for a stop sign. Is this actually bothering you in some way or you just the type of person who is upset when 'laws' are not followed. I say let the whole gang go through 'en mass'. It makes things a lot smoother. Imagine waiting for a gang of 30 riders to go through with each person making a complete stop. The wait would be interminable!

RUSS: Some just don't have the ability to have any common sense. Of course it makes sense for 30 bikes to go on through a stop sign after the first one sees it's safe to do so.

[Mikeod]

RUSS: Some just don't have the ability to have any common sense. Of course it makes sense for 30 bikes to go on through a stop sign after the first one sees it's safe to do so.
In your scenario, is the first bike stopping, or just cruising through while checking to see if it's safe?

Guidelines from cyclists websites indicates they should bunch up at traffic control signs/lights, then go through en masse when it is safe or they have the right of way, rather than in a string of single riders. Yes, to have each of 30 riders stop seems excessive, but what is the limit? What if there are 50 riders? How long should other traffic defer while they stream through?

If it's OK for bikes, then maybe the second or third car at the stop sign should just follow on the tail of the first car to stop if no one's coming. After all, stopping wastes gas and increases emissions. LOL

The fact is these roads are for everyone's use. Everyone needs to expect that different vehicles will be on the road at the same time and drive appropriately. That means following established rules of the road and guidelines.

[Russ_Boston]

Here is what I know:
-Bicycles are vehicles by definition in every state vehicle laws in the country.
-Bicycles being designated as vehicles require the cyclist to obey all traffic laws, rules of the road or whatver you choose to call them.
-If a bicyclist failes to come to a complete stop where required
-In Florida it is where you find a stop sign or a wide white line.
-My wife stopped at the Lynnhaven gate and proceeded forward very slowly attempting to turn right onto Route 472. An officer stopped her and told her she did not come to a complete stop and issued her a ticket.
-Since bikes are vehicles slowing but not stopping where required is unlawful.
I suspect bicyclist especially in large groups may find it annoying to stop but then I am annoyed that their annoyance is placing us all in danger.
-Finally my personal experience with bicylists is that most practice safety. However like car or cart drivers some are just too cavalier for my taste

I repeat, has there been an ACTUAL problem. Or you just 'annoyed'? Do you really want to wait behind a line of 15-30 of them stopping completely each time? Really? Instead of citing law answer that question if you may.

[Russ_Boston]

In your scenario, is the first bike stopping, or just cruising through while checking to see if it's safe?

Guidelines from cyclists websites indicates they should bunch up at traffic control signs/lights, then go through en masse when it is safe or they have the right of way, rather than in a string of single riders. Yes, to have each of 30 riders stop seems excessive, but what is the limit? What if there are 50 riders? How long should other traffic defer while they stream through?

If it's OK for bikes, then maybe the second or third car at the stop sign should just follow on the tail of the first car to stop if no one's coming. After all, stopping wastes gas and increases emissions. LOL

The fact is these roads are for everyone's use. Everyone needs to expect that different vehicles will be on the road at the same time and drive appropriately. That means following established rules of the road and guidelines.

One thing I would say is that the total length of a pack of riders is not much more than say 2 or 3 cars. Since they are riding together they should be bunched at the stop sign and proceed as one unit. Seems to make logical sense to me.

[CFrance]

I repeat, has there been an ACTUAL problem. Or you just 'annoyed'? Do you really want to wait behind a line of 15-30 of them stopping completely each time? Really? Instead of citing law answer that question if you may.

My personal opinion is that if there were 30 of them, I'd prefer the first one to actually, really stop, and then have them go through as a group. But that rarely happens. And then you have the single ones who zip up beside a line of cars waiting at a red light and turn without stopping. And the single ones that breeze through stop signs without stopping. There is nothing wrong with the single riders obeying all traffic laws.

Also, it's a shame there aren't more serious bicycle trails in this state. For instance, you can bike from Pittsburgh to Washington DC on a bike trail. the cyclists lobbied for it, and the states and communities made it happen over a number of years. I'm sure others could name more.

[Gerald]

illegal, certainly, but what would you do if you were in a pack of 20 cyclists?

Assuming two abreast, you would still form a line ten cyclists long and, each time a new pair got to the Stop sign, the line would stop. Then two would go off the front, the line would move forward one bike length, and the new front pair would stop.

As long as they slowed sufficiently to ensure their path was clear then you really can't expect them to do anything else.

Just because the person wearing earphones didn't like being told he was in the wrong...

the stop sign means stop. not slow down. cyclists break the law all the time and are the first to say someone else is.

[paulandjean]

Thread resurrected from July 2012.....

Bill :)

And people still think it is funny.

[ohiogolf]

Lisa,
Despite the venom of some posters towards cyclists, TV is a great place for avid bikers. The Sumter landing club has great rides. Don't judge biking by the posts here, come and try it out.

[CarGuys]

I for one am grateful they were on the path and not the road!
Can't for the life of me understand why one would choose the roadway instead of that lovely, smooth, paved path with no cars.

There are times the roads are safer than the paths. Agressive golf carts passing at speeds above 19.5. Neighbor lady on her bike was hit head on by a cart in the wrong lane coming at her around a corner. People never stopped left her maimed in the path.

Bike's should stop. They are often cleated in and un cleating a foot and coming to a stop is sometime dangerous and more difficult than a non rider might think,

Bikes are no longer required to stop at down gates but they must slow down and yield. I believe this literature is at all gate opps? I said slow thru the gate not blow through in a 30 mph tour de france pak

Lets all slow down be safe drive defensive and enjoy this paradise. To much stress hate and anger lately.

[GaryW]

Lisa,
Despite the venom of some posters towards cyclists, TV is a great place for avid bikers. The Sumter landing club has great rides. Don't judge biking by the posts here, come and try it out.

:agree:

Not a bad place at all, just as anywhere else, someone will always think they are correct and everyone else is wrong. Last year had to take my daughter to hospital, she got ran over on the MM Path between laurel Manor and Morse right by Laurel Valley. Cart tried to pass us where the divider is,, Knocked my wife off the bike and ran over my daughter. Grabbed him by his shirt collar, threw his cart keys away and waited for the SCSO.
It does not matter where a cyclist rides, someone will complain. But it is alright for cars to do the same, or carts to race up and down the MMP because they can not be ticketed due to private property deal.

If you ride bike here, just got to watch for everyone. Yesterday on Rio Grande approaching Del Mar at the new stop sign. I was riding around 27 mph. As the lane came to the merge spot for carts and bikes to merge in with regular traffic, I starting to merge over. A car comes around me in the wrong lane and tries to slide back in, one problem, I was already in the lane and did not move for them. Just then a car tried to make a right turn from Del Mar onto Rio Grande and could not because the car was blocking their lane trying to move me out of the way. The lady in the passenger side of the car yelled at me telling me to learn the laws of the road and the bicycles are not allowed in the lane. Imagine that!!! I told her she needed to read up on the laws and the lane was merged into one lane for the stop sign.
So it is not just the cyclist. As I said on another post, Everyone needs to know the laws and drive respectful of one another. This is a retirement community, what is the big hurry. You would think this is NYC or LA in rush hour sometimes.

To the poster complaining about cyclist at Panera's. What are we not allowed to sit down in there and spend money???? The Cyclist spend alot of money at that place daily. I have never heard anything like that.... Got to be kidding right??? :shrug:

[mickey100]

I repeat, has there been an ACTUAL problem. Or you just 'annoyed'? Do you really want to wait behind a line of 15-30 of them stopping completely each time? Really? Instead of citing law, answer that question if you may.

I agree Russ. There seems to be a rules mentality, that says obeying the "rule" is more important than having common sense and driving safely. And a lot of it is tied up in this anti-cyclist attitude. Some people won't be happy unless the roads are all free of all cyclists. The roads are meant to be shared, they are not just dedicated to automobiles. Luckily its just a few people that think that way.

People seem to lose track of the fact that the objective is not the Rule, it is Safety. And sometimes safety is better served by adapting the rule to the situation i.e. have one person stop, then the group goes thru the stop sign, for example. If you waited for each biker to uncleat their foot, stop, re-cleat, slowly gear up, etc. it would take forever, and you'd have cars trying to pass the group, honking their horns, slamming on brakes, etc. It would be a nightmare for everyone concerned.

[GaryW]

I agree Russ. There seems to be a rules mentality, that says obeying the "rule" is more important than having common sense and driving safely. And a lot of it is tied up in this anti-cyclist attitude. Some people won't be happy unless the roads are all free of all cyclists. The roads are meant to be shared, they are not just dedicated to automobiles. Luckily its just a few people that think that way.

People seem to lose track of the fact that the objective is not the Rule, it is Safety. And sometimes safety is better served by adapting the rule to the situation i.e. have one person stop, then the group goes thru the stop sign, for example. If you waited for each biker to uncleat their foot, stop, re-cleat, slowly gear up, etc. it would take forever, and you'd have cars trying to pass the group, honking their horns, slamming on brakes, etc. It would be a nightmare for everyone concerned.

:bigbow:

Here is a good video of being mad the cyclist are on the road. Instead of just going around have to make a deal of it..

Driver harasses cyclists as cameras roll - YouTube

[BentBoy]

Absolutely wrong! The law is the law. Stop signs are for everyone. Bike rider packs are the most flagrant violators. Maybe there should be Bike Rider Parks just like there are dog parks where the rules of the road don't apply. That way they won't endanger others who get in their way!

I'll remember that next time your behind a pack of 30 bikes and we all stop one at a time. I hope your not in a hurry.

This will never be resolved not matter what changes take place because people like to b**ch about stuff. It's in their nature. The Villages is for everyone to use and share and until we realize this, there will always be problems.

[CFrance]

You know, I have to ask... how many times have you actually been held up by a pack of cyclists? Geez, c'mon. Maybe once a week, or less. Actually, I may see two packs a week, but I've never been held up by them. I'm all in favor of following the traffic laws, but if 30 of them are stopping one by one at a stop sign as opposed to going through it as a group, that's going to make me late for pickle ball.

[Chazz]

I'll remember that next time your behind a pack of 30 bikes and we all stop one at a time. I hope your not in a hurry.

This will never be resolved not matter what changes take place because people like to b**ch about stuff. It's in their nature. The Villages is for everyone to use and share and until we realize this, there will always be problems.

Good point, Dave! I do wish, however, that Florida traffic law reflected this sensible approach.

By the way, from the sound of your handle (Bentboy), am I correct in assuming you ride a recumbent? I ride a recumbent trike.

[eremite06]

I ride a recumbent trike usually only around my neighborhood. I stay away from the MM because it's just too dangerous and I get sick of smelling exhaust fumes. I also wear ear buds but I can hear all traffic approaching.

This all boils down to courtesy on the roads. Driving is a privilege and everyone has equal rights to the road.

[Challenger]

I ride a recumbent trike usually only around my neighborhood. I stay away from the MM because it's just too dangerous and I get sick of smelling exhaust fumes. I also wear ear buds but I can hear all traffic approaching.

This all boils down to courtesy on the roads. Driving is a privilege and everyone has equal rights to the road.

and equal responsibility:bowdown:

[Chazz]

and equal responsibility:bowdown:

Agreed!

[Mikeod]

Good point, Dave! I do wish, however, that Florida traffic law reflected this sensible approach.

The recommendation is for bicyclists to form a group at stop signs or traffic signals and proceed through as a group then separate into a line after the intersection. That makes great sense in that it meets the stopping requirement yet still allows the pack to stay together while not creating the jam of each cyclist stopping individually.

[Chazz]

The recommendation is for bicyclists to form a group at stop signs or traffic signals and proceed through as a group then separate into a line after the intersection. That makes great sense in that it meets the stopping requirement yet still allows the pack to stay together while not creating the jam of each cyclist stopping individually.

That makes perfect sense to me, but I can't see it in "The Florida Bicycle Law Enforcement Guide" or "Florida Bicycling Street Smarts"; two pamphlets put out by the Florida Bicycle Association.

[coffeebean]

Those village bicycles gangs are getting to be to much.Always wearing their "colors" when they ride together. Some of them are starting to carry cans of spray paint. I heard the county sheriff gang squad is investigating.

I'm afraid to ask but.....what do they do with the paint?

[Mikeod]

That makes perfect sense to me, but I can't see it in "The Florida Bicycle Law Enforcement Guide" or "Florida Bicycling Street Smarts"; two pamphlets put out by the Florida Bicycle Association.

Not being a cyclist, I looked at their website and I think it was there in a discussion about stop signs and groups of riders. I can't find it now.

[paulandjean]

I'm afraid to ask but.....what do they do with the paint?

Its a joke? Spray paint, mark your territory. Gangs? 65 or 70 year old bike gang members in the villages?

[JoeC1947]

Its a joke? Spray paint, mark your territory. Gangs? 65 or 70 year old bike gang members in the villages?

If ya have to explain it........

[Chazz]

Not being a cyclist, I looked at their website and I think it was there in a discussion about stop signs and groups of riders. I can't find it now.

I should have checked this myself. I just visited flbikelaw.org and to my surprise the legal interpretation is that each bike (vehicle) has an individual requirement to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, regardless of their being in a group. The operative law is FS 316.123. Here's a link to the discussion of this topic: Cycling Groups at Stop Signs and Red Lights | Florida Bicycle Law (http://flbikelaw.org/2009/10/cycling-groups-at-stop-signs-and-red-lights/)
There are some exceptions to this requirement, but they don't seem to apply to every day situations.

To me, it doesn't make a lot of sense because, if strictly applied, car drivers following a large group would be severely inconvenienced as each bicyclist stopped consecutively, before proceeding through the intersection, rather than as a unit. I'm glad that I don't normally ride in such groups.

[Russ_Boston]

If ya have to explain it........

I got it right away - I would bet most did.

[CFrance]

I should have checked this myself. I just visited flbikelaw.org and to my surprise the legal interpretation is that each bike (vehicle) has an individual requirement to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, regardless of their being in a group. The operative law is FS 316.123. Here's a link to the discussion of this topic: Cycling Groups at Stop Signs and Red Lights | Florida Bicycle Law (http://flbikelaw.org/2009/10/cycling-groups-at-stop-signs-and-red-lights/)
There are some exceptions to this requirement, but they don't seem to apply to every day situations.

To me, it doesn't make a lot of sense because, if strictly applied, car drivers following a large group would be severely inconvenienced as each bicyclist stopped consecutively, before proceeding through the intersection, rather than as a unit. I'm glad that I don't normally ride in such groups.

But wouldn't everyone be taking turns? Like, a cyclist stops, car goes, next car stops, cyclist goes, etc.? I still think it's ridiculous to make them all stop individually, but I don't see where this would hold up a car waiting at a stop sign.

If the car had the stop sign and the cyclists didn't, then too bad for the car. I've waited minutes to get a clear shot to turn left out of Tamarind Grove onnto St. Charles at "rush hour."

[JoeC1947]

I got it right away - I would bet most did.

coffebean didn't.

[Chazz]

But wouldn't everyone be taking turns? Like, a cyclist stops, car goes, next car stops, cyclist goes, etc.? I still think it's ridiculous to make them all stop individually, but I don't see where this would hold up a car waiting at a stop sign.

If the car had the stop sign and the cyclists didn't, then too bad for the car. I've waited minutes to get a clear shot to turn left out of Tamarind Grove onnto St. Charles at "rush hour."

I guess I wasn't as clear as I could have been. I was referring to the situation where the car(s) are behind the group of bicycles.

[coffeebean]

coffebean didn't.

Now I feel foolish.

[CFrance]

I guess I wasn't as clear as I could have been. I was referring to the situation where the car(s) are behind the group of bicycles.

Okay, gotcha now.

[rubicon]

The thing about Florida Automobile and Bicycle Laws is that they are only good if you follow them. There are two things I am 99% certain of and that is:

1. About a quarter of the drivers will speed up to pass a golf cart that is merging from the diamond lane to the road at a gate. It happened to me this AM on Bailey Trail. Yes I did give an ample warning with my left signal. No I did not use a hand signal also as I normally do because the sides wre down on my cart as it was cold outside.

2. About half of the cyclist here never slow down for the gate, at intersection etc and just glide on through because they don't want to lose their momentum.

How concerned am I? Very

[Chazz]

...2. About half of the cyclist here never slow down for the gate, at intersection etc and just glide on through because they don't want to lose their momentum.

How concerned am I? Very

Or, god forbid, have to put their feet down to dismount.:mad:

[Mikeod]

I guess I wasn't as clear as I could have been. I was referring to the situation where the car(s) are behind the group of bicycles.
Which is why it makes sense to me for the cyclists to stop as a group, and proceed as a group when it is safe. This way no one is inconvenienced and traffic flow is optimized. Now if the first third of the group stops and the rest just follow on, I think there will be some upset people.

But it is not productive if cyclists and non-cyclists continue to paint everyone with the same brush. The relatively few on each side who display disdain for their fellow travelers should not spoil it for the rest. Share the road.

[Chazz]

Which is why it makes sense to me for the cyclists to stop as a group, and proceed as a group when it is safe. This way no one is inconvenienced and traffic flow is optimized. Now if the first third of the group stops and the rest just follow on, I think there will be some upset people.

But it is not productive if cyclists and non-cyclists continue to paint everyone with the same brush. The relatively few on each side who display disdain for their fellow travelers should not spoil it for the rest. Share the road.

Agreed, particularly with respect to sharing the road.

[GaryW]

The thing about Florida Automobile and Bicycle Laws is that they are only good if you follow them. There are two things I am 99% certain of and that is:

1. About a quarter of the drivers will speed up to pass a golf cart that is merging from the diamond lane to the road at a gate. It happened to me this AM on Bailey Trail. Yes I did give an ample warning with my left signal. No I did not use a hand signal also as I normally do because the sides wre down on my cart as it was cold outside.

2. About half of the cyclist here never slow down for the gate, at intersection etc and just glide on through because they don't want to lose their momentum.

How concerned am I? Very

Agree with Number 1.
Agree with Number 2 with this note: I sometime will move thru a gate with out stopping when you can go beside the gate in the cart lane and no other cars are going thru the gate. Most of the time, the gate keepers raise the arm for the cyclist so they do not have to stop and hold up traffic. When coming to stop sign sometimes when I know it is completely clear and no cross traffic I will proceed after slowing down, so I do know get ran over from behind. Which is a great chance of here in TV.

Perfect example: The cross street on CR-101 by the CVS. I do not know how many accidents they have there. Just had one the other day. Cars try to cross to continue down Wedgewood in front of Publix. They do not look to see who is coming. Very busy intersection and should not allow crossing there. But to make it to the point, Car shot across the road and luckily the car in front of me, T-Bone the lady in the door, if not she would have hit the motorcycle in the other lane.
That is how dangerous it is here. One person complains about the Cars. Another about the Golf Carts. Then someone complains about the cyclist. Never amazes me that the most complaints are the cars that think cyclist are not allowed on the roads. Everyone needs to slow down and watch.
On my bike I try to watch everyone. But I will tell you, go out on a bike and you will see some of the wildest stuff people here will do in a car and golf cart. Instead on getting on here and ranting and raving, try to understand the situation when you are in it. Just like complaining about the pack of cyclist going thru a stop sign together. I posted the other day about how 18 of us lined up at a stop sign and went thru one at a time. We got yelled at for holding up the cars. Had no idea that only cars have rights here in TV.
For Goodness sake it is a retirement community. Relax sit back, enjoy the sights,, Rollerblade on the MMP's, get out and walk. Everyone just relax... Enjoy life here in THE VILLAGES..

[ohhappyday]

LOL...hmm...guess I'm not the only one aggravated by a bicyclist with their head up there butt.

When I'm biking on the road I do obey the rules of the road. Lived many years in self proclaimed bicycling capital :) You obey road signs just as if you're driving. When in a group you remain single file not to cause problems or impede the flow of traffic. That's one biggie I've noticed down here. I've seen two bicyclists riding side by side taking up an entire lane not to mention the packs. So fellow bicyclists...come on now get with it :) I still think the multi lanes are far far more safer than the roads. Even with the golf carts. Oh and something I should mention I saw a motor scooter on the multi path the other day buzzing along. Had to check into that one out of curiousity....nope they're not allowed because they are consider vehicular. So if you all know anyone doing it you might let them know.. I think that was on the district site.

[Russ_Boston]

I saw a motor scooter on the multi path the other day buzzing along. Had to check into that one out of curiousity....nope they're not allowed because they are consider vehicular. .
Please cite your source. I think I read somewhere that if it is a 49CC scooter or less, and obeys the speed, then they are allowed on the MM.

[Chazz]

... I've seen two bicyclists riding side by side taking up an entire lane not to mention the packs. So fellow bicyclists...come on now get with it :) ...

Under some circumstances it is legal and not an inconvenience to motor vehicles for cyclists to ride 2 abreast or, otherwise, take the lane. The applicable law is FL316.2065(6). I'll quote from the Florida Bicycle Law Enforcement Guide: "In a lane "too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side" passing cyclists "at a safe distance" requires use of the next lane. In this case, cyclists riding two abreast cause no additional impediment to traffic."

The Florida standard width for a lane that allows a motor vehicle and a bike to share a lane is 14 feet (the area to the right of the white line does not count). There are quite a few roads here in TV that are less than that width.

[tommy steam]

[QUOTE=ureout;525815]This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere

I would say both things are dangerous. Blowing a stop sign and listening to an I pod while on your bike. Please be careful ,enjoy the beautiful scenery .

[Chazz]

[QUOTE=ureout;525815]This morning I was riding my bike on the Buena Vista multi modal path near the Bel Air entrance. A bicycle club passed me, about 20 riders. As they were going past me 2 riders shook there heads and pointed at there ears because I was listening to my I pod and then a 3rd rider near the end of the pack yelled at me saying listening to that is illegal!!! Now here is the good part just up ahead the trail merges with the entrance road and there is a BIG RED STOP SIGN that all 20 bikers decided to just blow right thru it....I guess when you are in an offical bike club you get to pick and choose the rules of the road you wish to adhere

I would say both things are dangerous. Blowing a stop sign and listening to an I pod while on your bike. Please be careful ,enjoy the beautiful scenery .

You're right about the group and that stop sign; and, they were right about the headset (FL316.304).

[tzangrilli]

The old saying applies-----"do as I say, not as I do"

[Mikeod]

There is something wrong with you people. All I ever read about is complaining about bikes and carts and cars and how everyone is a bad driver or is not obeying the law or one shouldn't ride on a particular road or path. I thought this was supposed to be the friendliest home town. I think it should be called the "un-friendliest" home town, the way everyone is always bickering about something or someone. This is the worse place I have ever lived. Maybe the solution should be not to have a forum for people to complain to. Then no one has to read this $#%@

First, intertwined in all the posts, complaining or not, there is good information that may help educate some people who are unaware of some rules and/or regulations.

Second, you are not being forced to read any posts on this board. If you do not like e subject or tone, the back button will take you away from the thread.

Third, there is some irony in a post complaining about people complaining.

[graciegirl]

There is something wrong with you people. All I ever read about is complaining about bikes and carts and cars and how everyone is a bad driver or is not obeying the law or one shouldn't ride on a particular road or path. I thought this was supposed to be the friendliest home town. I think it should be called the "un-friendliest" home town, the way everyone is always bickering about something or someone. This is the worse place I have ever lived. Maybe the solution should be not to have a forum for people to complain to. Then no one has to read this $#%@

This forum is not owned by The Villages. This forum is owned by private individuals who do not live here and have no connection to the official villages or to the developers.

The owners I find to be very fair and their handling of sticky issues is appropriate and swift.

There are many, many positive posts and many negative posts, just as there are all kinds of people.

P.S. No one likes to be called "You people".

I am sorry you think this is the worst place you ever lived.

[CFrance]

You know, I really hate it when someone gets on this forum and dictates to the masses, referring to us as "you people." The term You People is so rude. It's like the poster is holding him- or herself above the rest of us, as in they know best. "You people need to leave your dogs at home." "Come on, people, do/don't do such-and such." "What's wrong with you people?" Etc.

On this forum, the "people" are not supposed to be maligned. Their opinions can be disputed, but in a polite manner. If a poster can't be polite, he/she should go elsewhere. There's lots of other forums that allow people to slam others.

[mickey100]

There has been a lot of that type of talk on TOTV. If someone voices their displeasure with the developer, they get that "if you don't like it you can leave The villages" speech.

That being said, I didn't find this post to be terribly rude. It just sounded incredulous, like "I can't believe they go on and on and on about bicycle riders".

[Moderator]

The recently referenced post has been deleted since it is off topic and inflammatory. Other posts were left intact as they demonstrate members concerns about flames.

At this point, please return to the original topic discussion.

These issues are best handled using the red triangle to report a post and let the admin/Mods deal with it.

[rodway120@aol.com]

Bikers feel they have the same rights as a car - but almost never stop at a stop sign

How about campaign to ticket this and make the roads safer for all

[GaryW]

Bikers feel they have the same rights as a car - but almost never stop at a stop sign

How about campaign to ticket this and make the roads safer for all

That already happens. Just as with cars, motorcycles, golfcarts. The day you make all the vehicles stop and obey the rules, then you will have something to talk about. Not just one type of vehicle it is all the masses.

[Chazz]

That already happens. Just as with cars, motorcycles, golfcarts. The day you make all the vehicles stop and obey the rules, then you will have something to talk about. Not just one type of vehicle it is all the masses.

Well said!

[tzangrilli]

The sherriff's deputy's don't even stop at stop signs or obey speed limits or navigate roundabouts correctly so who would issue the tickets?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Whether your vehicle has two wheels or ten wheels, STOP signs require stopping. Same thing goes for our gates. Cars & trucks stop, cyclists don't feel the need.

Many of the gates have a space at the end for golf carts and bicycles to pass without stopping.

[tzangrilli]

Many of the gates have a space at the end for golf carts and bicycles to pass without stopping.
ALL vehicles (cars,carts,bikes)are supposed to stop at gates. It doesn't matter if the gate is up or down. Two years ago all gate arms were supposed to be replaced with arms long enough to prevent anyone from passing when in the down position but as the gates are damaged the arms have been cut off and reused. They were not cut short for carts and bikes. The biggest problem is the inconsistently with our gates. Some stay up too long, some too short, some exit gates don't activate for bicycles, some do, manned gatekeepers don't agree which lane a bicycle should use. However, if you come to a complete stop at any manned gate they will open the gate for you.

[CFrance]

We had an interesting experience with a cyclist group yesterday. We were already in a roundabout on BV, when to our right came a cycling group which didn't yield. They all had their heads down looking at the ground and simply ignored the yield sign. There was a car that had entered the roundabout just behind and beside us. We were stuck... couldn't move over because of that second car, and we were in Ron's very wide Dodge Magnum station wagon. It was scary being so close to them. We slowed to a crawl to let them and the other car get ahead of us, but that's not so safe to do either.

I wish they would have a little bit more situational awareness. It reminded me of our dog who, when he doesn't want to deal with something, turns his head and looks away. "If I can't see it, it's not happening!"

[Barefoot]

Many of the gates have a space at the end for golf carts and bicycles to pass without stopping.


ALL vehicles (cars,carts,bikes)are supposed to stop at gates. It doesn't matter if the gate is up or down.

The main gate on Belvedere at 466 has an arm that is short. Cars must stop, but the arm permits golf carts to easily pass beside the arm without merging with traffic and using a card. In six years, I've never once seen a bicycle or a golf cart use a card.

Tzangrilli, are you positive that golf carts should always leave the golf cart path and merge with traffic, so they can use their card to open the gate? :confused: Since it is a "pretend security gate", why would they need to do this? :confused:

[looneycat]

illegal, certainly, but what would you do if you were in a pack of 20 cyclists?

Assuming two abreast, you would still form a line ten cyclists long and, each time a new pair got to the Stop sign, the line would stop. Then two would go off the front, the line would move forward one bike length, and the new front pair would stop.

As long as they slowed sufficiently to ensure their path was clear then you really can't expect them to do anything else.

Just because the person wearing earphones didn't like being told he was in the wrong...

the simple answer is I would e safe and stop. As long as they slowed sufficiently?? is that like if I only shoot you in the leg it doesn't count? if I come thru the intersection at full speed with no stop sign and only hit one of the other bike riders it's OK? I can't expect them to respect MY safety when they disregard the law...hmmm...no I think I can expect them to do more!!!

[looneycat]

We had an interesting experience with a cyclist group yesterday. We were already in a roundabout on BV, when to our right came a cycling group which didn't yield. They all had their heads down looking at the ground and simply ignored the yield sign. There was a car that had entered the roundabout just behind and beside us. We were stuck... couldn't move over because of that second car, and we were in Ron's very wide Dodge Magnum station wagon. It was scary being so close to them. We slowed to a crawl to let them and the other car get ahead of us, but that's not so safe to do either.

I wish they would have a little bit more situational awareness. It reminded me of our dog who, when he doesn't want to deal with something, turns his head and looks away. "If I can't see it, it's not happening!"

you can't fix stupid!

[Ragman]

I thought the idea of a roundabout was for traffic to proceed without coming to a total stop. I slow to almost a complete stop at roundabouts now because the only "near misses" I have had were recumbent bikes going full speed on the inside lane with a pennant the size of a napkin attached. I know they have the right of way but are almost impossible to see because of the vegetation. I drove a passenger shuttle at a large resort for 12 years, so I am especially careful.

IMO recumbent bikes should not be allowed on the main boulevards and roundabouts for safety reasons. There are plenty of other streets and trails for them to use.

Until then bikers, be aware that vehicle traffic may not see you and ride defensively.

:eek:

[tzangrilli]

The main gate on Belvedere at 466 has an arm that is short. Cars must stop, but the arm permits golf carts to easily pass beside the arm without merging with traffic and using a card. In six years, I've never once seen a golf cart use a card.

Tzangrilli, are you positive that golf carts should always leave the golf cart path and merge with traffic, so they can use their card to open the gate? :confused: Since it is a "pretend security gate", why would they need to do this? :confused:
There is no merge at that point, the cart "lane" (paths are multi modal trails) continues on the right from before the gate to after.
To help with your confusion, the first reason for the "pretend security gate", is not for security but for traffic control. No different than a stop sign or traffic light to let cross traffic proceed safely. Since there is no cross traffic at that gate there must have been an exception made to keep traffic moving.

[Chazz]

I thought the idea of a roundabout was for traffic to proceed without coming to a total stop. I slow to almost a complete stop at roundabouts now because the only "near misses" I have had were recumbent bikes going full speed on the inside lane with a pennant the size of a napkin attached. I know they have the right of way but are almost impossible to see because of the vegetation. I drove a passenger shuttle at a large resort for 12 years, so I am especially careful.

IMO recumbent bikes should not be allowed on the main boulevards and roundabouts for safety reasons. There are plenty of other streets and trails for them to use.

Until then bikers, be aware that vehicle traffic may not see you and ride defensively.

:eek:


My wife and I ride recumbent trikes inside and outside TV. Have never had a problem being seen in the roundabouts. Always make eye contact with vehicles entering roundabouts. If that's not possible, we toot our extremely loud air horns to alert the drivers that we are present, then give a "thank you" wave. When riding in TV, on the roads or the multi modal paths, we use flags and very bright flashing red tail lights. We use extra care when we are in areas where vegetation, or other obstacles, might impair our visibility to vehicular traffic. In general, I find that cars give me much more space on my trike than they ever did when I rode my upright bike, and have never experienced a situation where it was evident that a motor vehicle driver did not see me. However, there have been a few times (fortunately very rare) where a car or cart driver made it clear that they wished they never saw me, or any other cycle on "their road."

[Russ_Boston]

IMO recumbent bikes should not be allowed on the main boulevards and roundabouts for safety reasons. There are plenty of other streets and trails for them to use.

Yeah - Let's restrict their lawful rights! Then we can go after other laws that give people the same rights as others.



Can't believe you said that and especially the way you phrased it.