"Trail Rage" Rears Its Ugly Head on Galloping Goose
Wheel Life column - 27 February, 1999
by Todd Litman and Suzanne Kort - Victoria Transport Policy Institute

People often send us complaints about cyclists with the hope that we can somehow change their behavior. The problem we face is that YOU, who have the intelligence to read a newspaper, are responsible and considerate. It's those dummies that can't even read a stop sign who cause problems, right? Since they are not reading this column there isn't much we can say to influence them.

But let's give it a try, anyway.

The latest complaint comes from Paul and Mary Moss of Metchosin who were walking their dogs on the Galloping Goose Trail during a recent break in the weather, when two different groups of cyclists rode by too close for comfort. The Mosses asked the riders to slow down and each time they received an obscene response from the bicyclists.

"Trail Rage" rears its ugly head!

It would be a shame if fights broke out between trail users ("Pedestrian challenges cyclist with umbrella - cyclist raises pump in defense - dog enters melee - equestrian joins in."). Let's review some basic trail riding rules to prevent such conflicts.

Most public trails are "mixed use." They are intended for walkers, joggers, skaters, wheelchair users, dogs, parents with strollers, cyclists, and in some areas, equestrians. Because cyclists are the fastest mode, we are required to yield to all other trail users, which means leaving as much space as you want motorists to maintain when passing cyclists on the road.

Trails like the Galloping Goose are often congested, and so are not appropriate for high-speed riding. Any time you see pedestrians, dogs, leisurely cyclists, or equestrians, SLOW DOWN. Always assume that a nice little old lady is around the corner, so go slow enough that you can avoid her, her nasty little dog, and the pointy-tip umbrella she carries to punish irresponsible cyclists.

And do we have to bring up your language? You can say whatever you want among friends, but watch what you say to others, or we'll %$#% your #$%^@#$! As we tell our children, it's important to save obscenities for important situations, like a good face plant, so they don't wear out.

It wouldn't hurt to make a habit of having a friendly conversation with at least one non-cyclist every time you use the trail. This will show them that cyclists have brains in their helmets, and may help temper some of that trail rage. All the better if you are a group of aggressive young riders on trick bikes covered with mud after a long ride - this lets them know that there are friendly humans under all that lycra.

Keep in mind that if you ever do hit another trail user you may be liable for both criminal (as in, "go directly to jail, do not pass Go, do not collect $200") and civil punishment (as in, you may need to sell your beloved bicycle to pay damages and lawyer fees). Trail rage may also lead to strict enforcement of trail behavior, including radar speed traps.

In other words, cyclists should be courteous, clean and friendly, just like a good scout. Make your mother proud!

For more information on trail user etiquette, pick up a trail brochure available free at recreation centers, bikeshops, on the Internet at http://www.gvcc.bc.ca/recrides/goosebrochure.htm, or call CRD Parks at 478-3344.

OK. We're done. Now you can go out and ride.