by Robert Wilhite (May 2008)

The riding season is finally here! Of course, I thought that back in March. No, wait a minute; it snowed in Atlanta how many times? It was 70 one day and then 50 the next. I have said since moving here in 1981 “If you don’t like GA weather, stick around; it’s bound to change”.

Speaking of change, hopefully by now those of you who have been SBL members for a few years have begun to recognize projects that are very new to SBL. For those who have joined this year, this is all you know. Our tour bus to the Tour de Georgia’s Brass Town Bald stage was certainly different; other projects were referenced in last month’s Prologue article. Some that may take a little more time to ‘visibly’ see are new strategic partnerships that will expand SBL’s presence and advocacy for cycling. Going forward, our goal is to continue providing SBL members more value for their membership.

This month highlights a topic that should be THE most important thing every time we ride…SAFETY. May is National Bicycle Safety month. To be honest, Safety is not as glamorous as a new bike but it very well may save you or someone else from a potentially bad scenario. Do you know your responsibilities while riding in a group or peleton? They do exist. Knowing and practicing them can potentially keep you and others safe from going down. That is just one facet of Safety.

Usually, we spend some time learning and comparing different bikes before we make the purchase. Same goes for the helmet; it has to look good and feel comfortable. We try on gloves and shoes until we find the right size and color. What about cycling apparel? That takes some time, too. It is necessary to invest time in getting all these right. How much time do we invest in safety? No one has hired me as a cycling coach to teach them bike safety and that is probably true for other coaches. People go to cycling coaches to learn better technique(s) and/or create a training program.

So, where do you go to learn about riding better in a group? What about riding safe in traffic? Regarding group riding, check out my article in this month's issue of FreeWheelin'. In addition, there are countless websites and organizations full of bike safety information and tips. Just google ‘bicycle safety’ and then all you need is the willingness to invest some valuable time.

I had the opportunity to join a couple of SBL group rides in March; the Easter Day Bunny ride and the Thursday Decatur ride. Don’t let the ‘bunny’ name fool you, it was no cake walk. There were a few hills that were opportunities to get stronger and you made the ride as fast as you desired. The Ride Leaders, Wallace and Patty McRoy, did a great job. The Thursday Decatur ride had a big turnout and the weather was perfect. There was great camaraderie at Mellow Mushroom after the ride. Our own Dr. Dave did the honors as Ride Leader. Thank you, sir!!!

I want to thank those who responded to my call for volunteers to help distribute FreeWheelin’ last month. Also, I appreciate those who helped at the Concourse Triathlon Expo in March. It was a long day but your efforts made it much easier to manage.