Comments on: It’s all in the route

By: Steve A

Steve A — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:52:52 +0000

I would like to see a follow-up post from Angie outlining some of the route improvements and “more fun ways” that she’s discovered since riding the route. I’ve found many such on my own commute route.

By: Keri

Keri — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:23:59 +0000

Eastern Volusia county is similar to sprawlando… north and east of 436, south of Sand Lake and west of 441.

By: fred_dot_u

fred_dot_u — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 23:54:06 +0000

I think the Orlando area is far better designed than eastern Volusia county. There are no side streets to go any reasonable distance, so it’s all major roads, four to ten lanes, although I think the ten-laners are more accurately nine lanes.

It is fun to read of the illuminating moments that Angie experiences as she becomes more comfortable with riding.

By: rodney

rodney — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 20:10:15 +0000

Just got back in from a 10 mile jaunt to Silver Star Rd/N.O.B.T. Tried a more “direct” route vs. zig-zagging through the neighborhoods. Aside from the headwinds to/from my destinations, it was an awesome ride.

When I began cycling, I too had the mindset in getting from “A” to “B” of a motorist. Sometimes the most direct of routes isn’t always that pleasant on a bicycle.

Having a mentor is as equally important as your on board tool kit. Their advice is truly most valuable. Get several if you can and become one yourself. It makes a difference.

By: Keri

Keri — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:56:47 +0000

Well said, Angie!

I think a second important tool is learning the strategies to transition those short distances on big roads or the big intimidating intersections. That can be really, simple and safe or extremely treacherous. Unfortunately, most novices who have not been exposed to some kind of education will automatically make the worst possible choices that only solidify their fear.

Aside from a grade-separated facility (tunnel or bridge) or separate signal phases which delay everyone (but mostly cyclists), there is no way to make intersections safer through infrastructure. But a few simple skills and a little knowledge solves the problem and works everywhere.

All of the urban core can be accessed by routes with 95% quiet streets and 5% transitions through a busy road. Outside the urban core (in sprawlando), we need more permeability to create that kind of pleasant route system.