Travel on Bucks County’s roads on weekends and you will likely encounter a Peloton blocking the road. I don’t mean to imply there’s a phenomenon of expensive exercise bikes falling off trucks. I’m referring to the packs of cyclists from which the trendy exercise equipment and media company derives its name.
From Friday through Sunday, wannabe Greg LeMonds crowd nearly every scenic byway.
On a recent Saturday, a Peloton of about 12 riders rode four abreast, nonchalantly pedaling through a four-way stop sign with nary a pause or concern for the cars and pedestrians waiting for their turn to go.
I must have missed the signs indicating the addition of River Road as a stage of the Tour de France.
The one constant I’ve seen with these groups — the complete disregard of motorists, pedestrians, and any traffic signs and signals.
Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code considers “pedalcycles as vehicles and provides that every person riding a pedalcycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and responsibilities applicable to a driver of a vehicle, with certain exceptions.”
Fair enough.
The code also recommends “Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast (side-by-side), unless on paths or parts of a roadway set aside for exclusive use of bicycles.”
The use of the term “pedalcycle” is unique, but the code’s intent is clear. “Shall not ride by more than two abreast” means no Pelotons.
The code gives further guidance that serves to protect cyclists and steer them from certain roads, for instance, the many Bucks County roads that have little or no shoulder.
Sensible cyclists therefore might seek out one of the many area towpaths or roadways that have a designated bike lane as an alternative and are more conducive for cyclists that prefer to ride chin-in-chest.
With a few exceptions, most solo cyclists abide by the rules of the road. But if there are more than two, pack mentality ensues in a way that seems to suggest that motorists should yield the entire paved surface for their leisurely pursuit, rather than live by the cycling enthusiast’s bumper sticker appeal to Share the Road.
Cyclists need to protect themselves and conduct the same level of due diligence and consideration as motorists when using the roads. Use hand signals. Affix bikes with lights when riding between sunset and sunrise. Be alert. Be aware. Be considerate. Ride single file.
Cyclists have a right to share the roads. They don’t have the right to dominate them as if they’re chasing an imaginary yellow jersey. If sharing the road is not compatible with your cycling regime, stay home. Local roads will be safer.
Paul F. Bradley lives in Yardley.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
