Florida Bicycle Association

2010 ProBike/ProWalk Florida Conference

Come to Lakeland for the fifth ProBike/ProWalk Florida Conference “The Dollars and Sense of Bicycling and Walking” brought to you by the Florida Bicycle Association.  The conference will be held May 11-13, 2010 at the Lakeland Center.  Pre-conference activities will be held May 11. The conference begins May 12. The official host hotel is the Hyatt Place at Lakeland Center. Highlights include:

National, state and local dignitaries

Florida Bicycle Association Annual Meeting and Awards presentation

Educational and advocacy breakout sessions

Mobile Workshops

Continued education credits

Speakers will provide information and data to begin making the case that routinely accommodating pedestrians and cyclists makes total economic sense.

For more information and to register, go HERE!

Florida Bike Summit 2010

Get Ready to Make a Difference!

Come to Tallahassee for the 2nd Annual Florida Bike Summit at the State Capitol April 8, 2010, 10:00 am-2:00 pm, and help protect the rights of bicyclists to ride safely and freely.

Learn what Florida is doing for bicyclists

Meet with legislators throughout the day

Connect with other bicycle advocates

Secured bicycle parking

Summit gathering spot: Tallahassee/East KOA Campground

Summit legislative training: 4/7/10; 7:00 pm

Summit celebration reception: 4/8/10; 5:00-6:30 pm

The 2010 Florida Bike Summit is FREE – register today

Press event at 10:30 am

19th Annual Tour de Forts, Sunday, April 25th @ 6:30 a.m.

The North Florida Bicycle Club brings you a classic one-day bicycle event designed for all road cyclists, the 19th annual Tour de Forts. Choose a distance of 18, 30, 62, 75, or 100 miles. Enjoy a wonderful bike ride with pre-ride snacks, rest stops, a post-ride lunch, mechanical support, motorcycle escorts, and roving sags. Click here to sign up through Active.com. Normal Online Registration with complementary T-shirt closes April 12, 2010- Late Online Registration without complementary T-shirt closes April 21

Join the Million Car Challenge Campaign

Are you in or are you out? Check out this terrific campaign by visiting the Bicycle Allowed Use of Full Lane (baufl.org) website. Read the Campaign first and then click away at the other terrific categories. By purchasing BAUFL campaign stickers, you’ll help deliver the message on one million cars to millions and millions of drivers.  For someone who rarely puts stickers on a car, this message is posted loud and clear on my car. FBA has also ordered a customized supply of Bicycle May Use Full Lane campaign stickers in a static cling format since this message replicates the official road sign (shape and color) according to the MUTCD. FBA members will receive a complimentary sticker when you renew your membership or make an additional donation to benefit the Bicycle Law Enforcement Program. New members will also receive a sticker.  Help promote this campaign to educate all drivers. The FBA stickers are also great for surfaces/places other than your car. The generic adhesive sticker format is available from baufl.org.

Key Biscayne Memorial Ride dedicated to Christophe Le Canne : Sunday, January 24th 9am

What would be smart is for the organizers of the ride to print out those statements on pieces of paper and give out safety pins (most of the guys who are going to show up are racers anyway, so they know how to pin a #). Let’s get out from underneath our helmets and jerseys and show South Florida that we are sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, neighbors, just trying to make our world a little better, one pedal stroke at a time – Jeffrey Lynne

What happened last week to Mr. Le Canne was horrific beyond comprehension.  What happened many months back to Liz Stewart was a tragedy.  What happened to Leon last year will not be forgotten.  Every time a cyclist is killed I am reminded of just how volatile life is each time we get on a bike.  Thus, our efforts at zMotion towards Ride Right/ Drive Right to inform and educate motorist and cyclist alike of the responsibilities we both have on the road. I can completely understand the need for cyclist to gather and memorialize those killed riding , and at the same time I want to caution us,  in doing so we run the risk of aggravating, antagonizing and fostering even further resentment from the very ones who oppose us now.  A memorial ride of any magnitude will be difficult to manage without any instances or confrontations with motorist .  I know the purpose of such a ride, I am just not sure of the outcome.

In this particular incident if the message is we need better roads for cyclist, no amount of improvements, but for a separate and barricaded bicycle facility, could have saved Mr. Le Canne from a drunk driver.  The demand to “make improvements” to the causeway, while fully supported by the South Florida Bike Coalition, begs the question – what amount of “improvements” could have saved his life? The answer is “none”. This was simply an unfortunate event that had nothing to do (I hope) with someone with a vendetta against cyclists. It could have been a jogger. It could have been another car. However, in this instance, it was someone not protected by the exoskeleton of a 2 ton vehicle.  The cycling community will undoubtedly receive a lot of press, but don’t assume the message you are trying to communicate will be received by those you are trying to communicate to. I would prefer to have Kathryn Moore or someone from an existing organization designated as the “spokesperson” for the gathering so that a single, clear message be conveyed – cyclists have the right to be on the road and will not tolerate being treated as second-class citizens by any local government.

As the leader of zMotion I feel compelled to support our fellow cyclists in the most positive way we can without asking anything more from our members than they themselves choose  to do. If a member wants to join in the memorial ride, I support that. If they choose not to, I am ok with that too. I do not want our members to feel pressured one way or the other, any display of emotion for a cause such as this should be an individual decision, not mine or zMotion as an organization . However, that said,  for those zMotion members that do ride I simply  ask that they do so safely, responsibly and help further set the example as leaders that zMotion has come to be known for.

To the family of Mr Le Canne, my deepest sympathy. – Pat Patregnani

National Cycling Organization Hosts Gatherings In Florida

JANUARY 4, 2009

Contact: Winona Bateman, 800-755-2453 x219, Email: wbateman@adventurecycling.org

The director of North America’s largest cycling membership organization will visit Florida from January 11 – 16, 2010, to speak about the life-changing potential of cycling and bicycle travel. Events will be held in Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and in the Miami/Dade area.

Jim Sayer, executive director of Adventure Cycling, will share the latest news on bicycle travel and adventures in North America, including new bike-friendly routes, maps, tours, and policy initiatives at the national level — such as an official U.S. Bicycle Route System, now being considered by Congress. At each event, there will also be time for participants to share their thoughts, ideas and stories. Whether you have made a New Year’s Resolution to get in shape, lower your carbon footprint, or you want to plan an overnight (or epic) cycling adventure, there will be inspiration for everyone.

Invite your cycling buddies, other friends, or family. These events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.

Please RSVP by contacting Beth Petersen at Adventure Cycling Association: 800-755-2453 x 211, or via email at bpetersen@adventurecycling.org.

TALLAHASSEE – MONDAY, JANUARY 11, 2010

What: Presentation on the latest news and resources for bicycle travel

Who: Jim Sayer, executive director of Adventure Cycling Association, North America’s largest cycling membership group, based in Missoula, MT (www.adventurecycling.org). This event is co-sponsored by Capital City Cyclists.

When: Monday, January 11 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm

Where: Florida Education Association, 3^rd floor board room, 213 South Adams Street, one block from the State Capitol. Directions at http://feaweb.org/about-fea.

Why: Meet people interested in cycling, bike travel and touring, and find all the resources and inspiration you’ll need to enjoy the life-changing activity of bicycle travel.

Cost: Free and open to the public. Bring friends interested in cycling and bike travel.

RSVP: Please RSVP by January 6th

JACKSONVILLE – TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2010

What: Presentation on the latest news and resources for bicycle travel

Who: Jim Sayer, executive director of Adventure Cycling Association, North America’s largest cycling membership group, based in Missoula, MT (www.adventurecycling.org).

When: Tuesday, January 12 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm

Where: Brooks Family YMCA, 10423 Centurion Parkway North in Jacksonville. For more information about the location visit http://www.firstcoastymca.org/brooks-branch, or call 904-854-2000.

Why: Meet people interested in cycling, bike travel and touring, and find all the resources and inspiration you’ll need to enjoy the life-changing activity of bicycle travel.

Cost: Free and open to the public. Bring friends interested in cycling and bike travel.

RSVP: Please RSVP by January 8^th

ORLANDO – WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2010

What: Presentation on the latest news and resources for bicycle travel

Who: Jim Sayer, executive director of Adventure Cycling Association, North America’s largest cycling membership group, based in Missoula, MT (www.adventurecycling.org).

When: Wednesday, January 13 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm

Where: Grace Hopper Hall (Baldwin Park), located in central Orlando on 1913 Meeting Place. For directions, click on http://www.baldwinparkfl.com/web/directions.asp — or call 407-529-3800.

Why: Meet people interested in cycling, bike travel and touring, and find all the resources and inspiration you’ll need to enjoy the life-changing activity of bicycle travel.

Cost: Free and open to the public. Bring friends interested in cycling and bike travel.

RSVP: Please RSVP by January 11^th

MIAMI/DADE AREA – THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2010

What: Presentation on the latest news and resources for bicycle travel

Who: Jim Sayer, executive director of Adventure Cycling Association, North America’s largest cycling membership group, based in Missoula, MT (www.adventurecycling.org).

When: Thursday, January 14, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm

Where: Coral Gables Branch Library, located at 3443 Segovia St., in Coral Gables. More information on location here: http://www.mdpls.org/info/locations/cg.asp.

Why: Meet people interested in cycling, bike travel and touring, and find all the resources and inspiration you’ll need to enjoy the life-changing activity of bicycle travel.

Cost: Free and open to the public. Bring friends interested in cycling and bike travel.

RSVP: Please RSVP by January 12th

TAMPA – SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2010

What: Presentation on the latest news and resources for bicycle travel

Who: Jim Sayer, executive director of Adventure Cycling Association, North America’s largest cycling membership group, based in Missoula, MT (www.adventurecycling.org).

When: Saturday, January 16 from 5:30 to 7:00 pm

Where: Carrollwood Bicycle Emporium, located in central Tampa at 14407 B North Dale Mabry. For directions, click on http://cbebikes.com/storelocator/ — or call 813-963-5765.

Why: Meet people interested in cycling, bike travel and touring, and find all the resources and inspiration you’ll need to enjoy the life-changing activity of bicycle travel.

Cost: Free and open to the public. Bring friends interested in cycling and bike travel.

RSVP: Please RSVP by January 13th

# # #

Adventure Cycling Association is the premier bicycle travel organization in North America with over 44,000 members. A nonprofit organization, its mission is to inspire people of all ages to travel by bicycle. It produces routes and maps for cycling in North America, organizes more than 40 tours annually, and publishes the best bicycle travel information anywhere, including Adventure Cyclist magazine and The Cyclists’ Yellow Pages online. With 38,158 meticulously mapped miles in the Adventure Cycling Route Network, Adventure Cycling gives cyclists the tools and confidence to create their own bike travel adventures. Contact the office at (800) 755-BIKE (2453), info@adventurecycling.org, or visit www.adventurecycling.org.

Greenways: A win-win for everyone

I was happy to see the East Coast Greenway featured in The Times-Union (Jacksonville newspaper). Contrary to feedback from some of your readers, greenways and trails accommodate more than just bicyclists.They welcome walkers, runners, in-line skaters, hand cyclers, horseback riders and baby carriages. In addition, when it comes to typical trail users, variety is the standard. I have seen everything from spandex to cargo shorts and tricycles to skateboards. I know one man whose wife is confined to a wheelchair and they are regular greenway riders via a custom bicycle-built-for-two.

When it comes to cyclists alone, the following economic returns are documented:

- They contribute $133 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

- They support nearly 1.1 million jobs across the country.

- They generate $17.7 billion in annual federal and state tax revenue.

- They produce $6.2 billion in bicycling gear sales and services.

- They create $46.9 billion in bicycling trip-related expenditures.

Regarding real estate values, in 2003, Marion County, Ind., was studied and trails were credited for increasing property values by $140 million. A new trail corridor in Austin, Texas raised land values and generated $13.64 million in new property tax revenues. In 2006, the Dallas Morning News reported a 25 percent premium on land abutting the Katy Trail.

In Florida, the Pinellas Trail draws 1.1 million users per year and it propelled downtown Dunedin from a 30 percent vacancy rate to a waiting list for business properties. The West Orange Trail created a similar revival in downtown Winter Garden, adding about 650,000 people. Further north, the Cross Florida Greenway attracts over 2 million users annually.

Corporate America increasingly supports recreational trails. Greenways and trails provide construction jobs and increased economic growth. They offer recreational opportunities, alternative transportation and increased property value.

Most importantly, greenways and trails provide positive experiences and health benefits for generations of users.

STEVEN DAVIS,

Landscape Architect, Fruit Cove

WINTER PARK HEALTH FOUNDATION INVESTS BIG INTO BICYCLING AND WALKING BY AWARDING A TWO-YEAR $95,600 CAPACITY BUILDING GRANT TO FLORIDA BICYCLE ASSOCIATION

Improving non-motorized activity improves health on a personal and planet level. The two-year grant in the amount of $95,600 will make it possible for FBA to begin a Central Florida chapter that will deal specifically with the greater Orlando area with an emphasis on Eatonville, Winter Park and Maitland. A 2009 civility study, also funded by the Winter Park Health Foundation, granted FBA the insight as to the needs of the Winter Park, Maitland and Eatonville communities related to cycling and walking. The civility study noted that 18% of the population used bikes but riders felt unsafe and auto drivers were without knowledge on dealing with cyclists in the traffic flow. This two-year grant will place opportunity with needs granting FBA a full functioning chapter to deal directly with the finding of the civility study of 2009. Given the focus and potential for improvements 24 months from now drivers could be more educated and courteous to cyclists and walkers. Cyclists and walkers could be more safe and secure and motivated to use non-motorized healthier options much more often.

Assume the position ~ Instant stop!

Most cyclists will never need to do a panic stop for real. A few will. I personally know two people who needed to do it. Neither knew how, both went over the handlebars and to the hospital. One required extensive reconstructive surgery and has permanent injuries.

We teach the instant stop in Traffic Skills 101 and I daresay, that most who learned it there, couldn’t do it in an emergency today. That’s because it takes practice to get it right and then, an occasional refresher. And like most athletic maneuvers, the set-up has huge influence on the outcome.

So what’s the anatomy of a panic stop? The front brake on a bicycle has potentially most of the bike’s stopping power. As brakes are applied, one’s weight will normally shift forward placing more weight on the front wheel than the rear so the rear will start to lose traction sooner. The farther forward the weight transfer the more effective the front brake. In extreme cases the front wheel may even lock up and over the handle bars you go.

The technique we teach for the instant stop is to come off the saddle, raise your butt up and behind the saddle over the rear wheel and hold it there with arm strength, while applying the brakes. Front brake pressure should be up to three times rear brake pressure. By doing this, you’re putting weight directly over the rear wheel, making the rear brake more effective and limiting the front brake’s ability to force you to lose control.

If the rear tire begins to skid, release pressure slightly on the front brake. The rear tire skidding is an indicator that the front brake is becoming too effective. Releasing the non-skidding brake is an unnatural act and must be practiced.

In order to get the leg positioning to push your your butt up and behind the saddle your feet must be at the three and nine o’clock position. And they have to stay there until you are again back over the saddle, just before completing the stop. For grins, lets call this butt-aft position the IS (instant stop) position.

Cyclists who are operationally good at the instant stop will clearly have their butt behind the saddle. Cyclists who are expert, can actually lay their belly on the saddle.

When I was flying fighters, we had a saying, “You fight like you train.” In the heat of battle, what you do must be ingrained in your body, to do well. Closer to our world, if you have been riding with a clipless system for a while, I challenge you to sit down and write a detailed description of what you do when you come to a stop and dismount. Chances are, you’ll have to think about it for a few minutes before writing. That’s because when we first get the clips we pretty quickly figure out how to stop without falling, as long as we consciously go through the steps. Steven Covey calls that conscious competence. Over time, we stop thinking about it and just do it. That’s called unconscious competence.When Jodi and I recently rode with friends in Reno Nevada, the bike I was riding had standard pedals. Yet I found myself twisting my landing foot to unclip at each stop, like the foot had a mind of its own.

In the instant stop, the set-up is to get to the IS position immediately as you simultaneously begin to brake. This is crucial to successfully completing the maneuver. But that’s not the normal way most people stop. I have recently begun going to the IS position any time I begin to brake from cruising speed. Then I actually brake normally and get back on the seat as I slow towards walking speed. This way, I’m training my body for the set-up. If after I start braking I see a need to stop quicker, I’m already in position.

The idea of this is if an unexpected obstacle necessitates an instant stop, the act of reaching for the brakes will trigger an automatic body response to assume the IS position because there won’t be time to think about it. Just to act.

Occasionally, you may want to execute a full practice instant stop just to keep your skills honed. Make sure you are alone or the other riders have been warned, and there are no cars in close proximity. Also, it’s not a good idea to practice it right at an intersection or stop sign.

The closest I’ve come to executing an instant stop for real since routinely assuming the IS position was recently on a North Florida Bicycle Club ride. I was approaching the stop sign at about 15 mph on a substandard width two-lane road that “T’d” into a through road. As I began to stop, a flat bed tractor trailer turned left onto my road and its trailer ate up a huge chunk of my lane. I slowed rapidly and being already in the IS position, felt much more in control of the situation.

Initially, it takes a little more effort to go to the IS position, just like it did to unclip. After a while, just like unclipping, it will be second nature. Wouldn’t it be a good idea to add this IS to your defensive cycling skills? It can mean the difference between a disasterous panic stop or a well controlled instant stop. The trailer incident sure sold me.

Bike Buses to VegFest and Climate Action Day Events

Woo hoo! The calendar says it’s Fall but it’s still Florida Springtime! We have some fun stuff in the works.

On October 24, Florida Bicycle Association is teaming up with Central Florida VegFest to run “Bike Buses” from around Orlando to the festival at Loch Haven Park.

Rusted Chain Bike Collective will head up the Bike Valet service to keep bikes secure. Bike bus volunteers will even provide cargo bike services for your acquisitions!

What is a Bike-Bus you ask? Simple: a ride leader or small group of cyclists starts at a predetermined place and time and follows a predetermined route, picking up other bicyclists along the way at “bus stops” – just as a regular bus does.

Figuring that some people will want to buy something at VegFest and might not be able to carry it home with them on their bikes, we’ll also offer a cargo bike service.

The routes are now complete! See the routes and download a map here.

We still need more volunteers to help the Pedal 4 Pride kids and bus driver assistance. To volunteer, please contact Mighk.

Mighk Wilison