This is an article from Interaksyon.com. I'm re-posting this here for reasons that will be obvious when you read the article.
PARA SA MGA SIKLISTA | 8 ways to keep safe when biking
By: Tricia Aquino, InterAksyon.com
January 27, 2014 11:48 AM
“A lot of the time, road accidents happen when the cyclist or motorist is unpredictable, say he or she suddenly makes a turn,” said J. Paul Marasigan, an aficionado who used to bike to and from work every day.
Visibility is also important to keep safe on the streets, he said. At night, cyclists must have prominent blinkers and/or reflectors on their bike, body, helmet, or anywhere else that can be seen.
Before making a turn, overtaking, or changing lanes, cyclists must also look at their surroundings to make sure they are clear to go, especially when crossing.
It is also important to use hand signals to make one’s moves predictable. But a problem is that some motorists do not understand these gestures because they are not educated about this, said Marasigan.
Omi Castañar, another cyclist who uses the bike as his primary mode of transportation, has more advice for his peers.
1. Wear light-colored clothes.
2. Make sure there are both front and rear lights on the bike.
3. Stick to familiar routes. Avoid national roads and highways if possible.
4. Do not listen to music. It is important to hear vehicles coming from the rear, especially motorcycles
5. Avoid weaving. Ride in a straight line.
6. Do not assume that drivers can see you.
7. Do not beat traffic lights.
8. Always be ready with the brakes because some vehicles do not follow road rules.
But bicycle safety is not just the biker’s responsibility. Marasigan said that motorists must also be aware that there may be a bike in their vicinity. A common problem, he said, was how car doors would suddenly open just as a bike approached.
He advised that cyclists go a door’s length apart from vehicles they pass to avoid this.
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Friday, January 24, 2014
FAQs: Riding a Bicycle to Work
Here are some of the frequently asked questions when people find out that I ride a bike to the office.
1. How long have you been riding a bike to work?
I started biking to the office in 2012. Back then, because of my erratic work schedule (i.e. I don't know when and where my work day ends) I'd ride once or twice a week. This wasn't as regular as I'd want to. But in August 2013, the nature of my work changed and I was able to ride my bicycle to work everyday. Since the first work day of August 2013, I have never failed to ride a bicycle to the office.
2. What bicycle do you use?
I used to ride a Brompton-clone folding bike to the office. I preferred it over my road bike because I can attach a a bag in front of it. Mid-2013, I sold my folding bike to finish the assembly of my touring bicycle. Since then, I've been using my Surly Long Haul Trucker to go to the office, and basically everywhere else. I prefer this bike because of several factors: (1) the racks allow me to place my bag on a basket / crate at the rear of the of bike, (2) the thicker tires and the steel frame absorbs more vibration than my racer's thin 700cc tires and carbon fiber frame, and (3) the geometry is more relaxed than my racer, making long rides easier on the back and the nape.
3. How long is your ride to the office?
The distance from my place and the office is about 7.2 kilometers. It takes me between 18-22 minutes to get to the office in the morning. If I commute (i.e. riding the LRT2 and the subsequent jeepney) the travel time is about 35 minutes. The ride home, because of the traffic conditions, takes longer - I get home after about 25 minutes of cycling.
4. What do you wear when riding? Don't you get very sweaty and dirty?
Before, when I'd still bring my folding bicycle, I'd wear my office slacks and office shoes together with a dry-fit shirt to the office. I was going for a "wear-for-the-destination-not-the-ride" look. I always pedaled at a leisurely pace so I won't get sweaty. But when I switched to full-time biking, I opted to wear running singlets (in addition to the dry-fit shirts), nylon shorts, and sandals. Because I ride everyday to work, I can't avoid the occasional morning rush (usually because of overextended sleep). Making it in time for work entailed pedaling faster than normal, so perspiration is unavoidable.
When I arrive at the office, I just changed into my office clothes. I bring my clothes with me and I usually leave my shoes under my desk. Before dressing up, I'd wash my face and use anti-bacterial wet wipes my arms, legs, and torso with. Usually, this ritual is enough for me to feel fresh for the day.
Bringing clothes to work has its trade-offs - my bag is bulkier than usual and my clothes don't look as neatly pressed as I want them too. But these are small inconveniences that I'd gladly accept so I can ride my bicycle to work.
Ideally, I wish I could shower at the office every time I arrive. In addition, I wish I could bring all my clothes at the same time and just store them in a cabinet complete with hangers. If these options are available to prospective bike commuters, then it would be even better.
5. What's your route?
I brave the busy streets of Aurora Boulevard during my commute. I know of some biker friends who opt to go through side streets on their commute and I recommend that cyclists do that. I just haven't discovered a convenient route that would allow me to avoid Aurora Boulevard. Going through side streets is beneficial because the streets are usually less busy and congested, and seeing the neighborhood is always a good bonus.
The key really is to plan ahead. I recommend scoping the route ahead of time, if possible. Look for potholes or road repairs that might need to be avoided. Scoping either first-hand or via Google Maps might also lead to discovering safer and more pleasant routes, so it really pays to do some research.
After doing research, I suggest going through the route on a weekend, when the traffic is lighter. Riding the planned route on a bicycle for the first time on a weekday morning is not advisable, especially for newbie bike commuters. It's always better to be familiar with the route first before worrying about heavy traffic and the morning rush. Also, try the route at night just to be familiar with the lighting conditions of the road.
6. Isn't going through national roads dangerous?
The key to being safe on the road is to be visible and predictable. Cyclists should ensure that other motorists see them, both in daytime and (most especially) during night time. This includes being careful when crossing intersections and avoiding swerving in and out of lanes.
2. What bicycle do you use?
I used to ride a Brompton-clone folding bike to the office. I preferred it over my road bike because I can attach a a bag in front of it. Mid-2013, I sold my folding bike to finish the assembly of my touring bicycle. Since then, I've been using my Surly Long Haul Trucker to go to the office, and basically everywhere else. I prefer this bike because of several factors: (1) the racks allow me to place my bag on a basket / crate at the rear of the of bike, (2) the thicker tires and the steel frame absorbs more vibration than my racer's thin 700cc tires and carbon fiber frame, and (3) the geometry is more relaxed than my racer, making long rides easier on the back and the nape.
This doesn't mean people need to buy a commuter-specific bicycle to ride one to work. When asked for bicycle recommendations, I always tell my friends to get one that they'd like to ride. Any bicycle can be used for bike commuting. Of course I'd recommend to get one that has either a rack or a basket but they're more for convenience than an absolute requirement. It's perfectly alright to get an affordable Japanese surplus bicycle as a commuter.
The distance from my place and the office is about 7.2 kilometers. It takes me between 18-22 minutes to get to the office in the morning. If I commute (i.e. riding the LRT2 and the subsequent jeepney) the travel time is about 35 minutes. The ride home, because of the traffic conditions, takes longer - I get home after about 25 minutes of cycling.
4. What do you wear when riding? Don't you get very sweaty and dirty?
Before, when I'd still bring my folding bicycle, I'd wear my office slacks and office shoes together with a dry-fit shirt to the office. I was going for a "wear-for-the-destination-not-the-ride" look. I always pedaled at a leisurely pace so I won't get sweaty. But when I switched to full-time biking, I opted to wear running singlets (in addition to the dry-fit shirts), nylon shorts, and sandals. Because I ride everyday to work, I can't avoid the occasional morning rush (usually because of overextended sleep). Making it in time for work entailed pedaling faster than normal, so perspiration is unavoidable.
When I arrive at the office, I just changed into my office clothes. I bring my clothes with me and I usually leave my shoes under my desk. Before dressing up, I'd wash my face and use anti-bacterial wet wipes my arms, legs, and torso with. Usually, this ritual is enough for me to feel fresh for the day.
Bringing clothes to work has its trade-offs - my bag is bulkier than usual and my clothes don't look as neatly pressed as I want them too. But these are small inconveniences that I'd gladly accept so I can ride my bicycle to work.
Ideally, I wish I could shower at the office every time I arrive. In addition, I wish I could bring all my clothes at the same time and just store them in a cabinet complete with hangers. If these options are available to prospective bike commuters, then it would be even better.
5. What's your route?
I brave the busy streets of Aurora Boulevard during my commute. I know of some biker friends who opt to go through side streets on their commute and I recommend that cyclists do that. I just haven't discovered a convenient route that would allow me to avoid Aurora Boulevard. Going through side streets is beneficial because the streets are usually less busy and congested, and seeing the neighborhood is always a good bonus.
The key really is to plan ahead. I recommend scoping the route ahead of time, if possible. Look for potholes or road repairs that might need to be avoided. Scoping either first-hand or via Google Maps might also lead to discovering safer and more pleasant routes, so it really pays to do some research.
After doing research, I suggest going through the route on a weekend, when the traffic is lighter. Riding the planned route on a bicycle for the first time on a weekday morning is not advisable, especially for newbie bike commuters. It's always better to be familiar with the route first before worrying about heavy traffic and the morning rush. Also, try the route at night just to be familiar with the lighting conditions of the road.
6. Isn't going through national roads dangerous?
The key to being safe on the road is to be visible and predictable. Cyclists should ensure that other motorists see them, both in daytime and (most especially) during night time. This includes being careful when crossing intersections and avoiding swerving in and out of lanes.
Avoid the right side of cars in corners (left); Always use hand signals (right)
Normally, it's best for cyclists to stay on near the curb. But there are times when it's safer to claim the whole lane, particularly near corners so that drivers do not try to overtake. Unfortunately, some motorists do not take too kindly to cyclists who claim the whole lane, I am often blasted with loud horns for this. I tend to ignore them and just opt to pedal faster.
It goes without saying that riding at night time requires proper bicycle lighting - both for the front and the rear of the bicycle. Whenever possible, I also avoid wearing a black shirt when cycling at night. I recommend getting those wearable reflective strips that can be bought in the hardware stores or those Japanese surplus shops.
It goes without saying that riding at night time requires proper bicycle lighting - both for the front and the rear of the bicycle. Whenever possible, I also avoid wearing a black shirt when cycling at night. I recommend getting those wearable reflective strips that can be bought in the hardware stores or those Japanese surplus shops.
Predictability is also important. When cycling in public roads, try to use hand signals. This is as simple as stretching your arm towards the direction you want to go to. This applies to changing lanes and to cornering. Being predictable also means avoiding swerving and weaving through traffic. As much as possible, I try to stick to one lane (see above). I only weave through traffic to avoid obstacles like potholes, road cracks, and parked vehicles. And when I weave, I make sure that I use hand signals.
When riding in national roads like C5, I also try to maintain a good pace - around 25 - 25 kph. Riding with the traffic (in terms of speed) also helps in making things more convenient for the motorists. This doesn't mean that slower bikers should keep out of these busy streets. But I guess it's just safer to be faster in these roads, especially when going up flyovers.
Riding in traffic can be daunting at first. But being visible and predictable at all times greatly reduces the risks for both the cyclist and the motorist.
7. Do you still ride the bicycle when it rains?
I do not let rain (or even storms) stop me from doing my bike commute. Cycling in the rain can actually be very fun, especially considering that in Manila when it rains, it (traffic) jams. My bike has fenders that keep tire moisture from splashing. I also have a poncho-style rain coat that has just enough ventilation to keep me dry from both rain and perspiration. I also bring an XL trash bag to cover my bag and some rubber bands to make sure that the bag is enclosed.
8. What other things do you bring on your commute?
Aside from my helmet, change of clothes, my bike lights, and my rain stuff, I also bring the following:
When riding in national roads like C5, I also try to maintain a good pace - around 25 - 25 kph. Riding with the traffic (in terms of speed) also helps in making things more convenient for the motorists. This doesn't mean that slower bikers should keep out of these busy streets. But I guess it's just safer to be faster in these roads, especially when going up flyovers.
Riding in traffic can be daunting at first. But being visible and predictable at all times greatly reduces the risks for both the cyclist and the motorist.
7. Do you still ride the bicycle when it rains?
I do not let rain (or even storms) stop me from doing my bike commute. Cycling in the rain can actually be very fun, especially considering that in Manila when it rains, it (traffic) jams. My bike has fenders that keep tire moisture from splashing. I also have a poncho-style rain coat that has just enough ventilation to keep me dry from both rain and perspiration. I also bring an XL trash bag to cover my bag and some rubber bands to make sure that the bag is enclosed.
8. What other things do you bring on your commute?
Aside from my helmet, change of clothes, my bike lights, and my rain stuff, I also bring the following:
- Extra tire interior + patch kit
- Body spray + wet wipes
- Bike lock
- Totobobo mask
My Totobobo mask from Singapore
9. Where do you park your bicycle?
Securing the bicycle in a place where it won't be a bother to co-workers is important. I keep my bicycle in the staircase of our fire exit. I keep it locked to the window grills.
10. What other things should bicycle commuters remember?
Riding a bicycle to work may seem like a big commitment, well it kind of is. It needs a bit of planning and preparation. But it's not as difficult as people might think. I opted to bike to work because I wanted a less stressful way to go the office. I want the freedom that comes riding a bicycle - I no longer need to worry about whether the train lines are still open or not and I don't need to be afraid of Friday night traffics.
First-time bike commuters should take it easy and not rush into fully committing to a bike-to-work lifestyle. I suggest doing it once a week first and do it on days when ample preparation can be done the night before. Once familiarity with route conditions, proficiency in basic cycling skills, and ability to do basic bicycle maintenance are gained, then being a full-time bike commuter will be a simpler and more enjoyable experience.
This is a post in progress so if there suggestions, questions, and reactions, feel free to comment or contact me so I can add more information here.
First-time bike commuters should take it easy and not rush into fully committing to a bike-to-work lifestyle. I suggest doing it once a week first and do it on days when ample preparation can be done the night before. Once familiarity with route conditions, proficiency in basic cycling skills, and ability to do basic bicycle maintenance are gained, then being a full-time bike commuter will be a simpler and more enjoyable experience.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Shirley's Spa Day
Every month, I bring my bicycle to the shop for some maintenance work. It gets washed. The chain and the crank get re-lubricated. And the wires for the brakes and the shifters are tightened.
In September, I rode Shirley a total of 480km. Giving her a spa treatment is a small price to pay to keeping her in tip-top shape.
In September, I rode Shirley a total of 480km. Giving her a spa treatment is a small price to pay to keeping her in tip-top shape.
Shirley getting stripped "naked"
Manong Rudy giving Shirley the VIP treatment
Good as new!
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Biking in the Rain
It's been raining a lot in Metro Manila. That's to be expected in a tropical country. But weather patterns have been displaying extremities like the very high temperatures last April and this severe volume of rain we're experiencing now.
As mentioned in my last post, I have three ways to deal with the rain.
I originally wanted a Carradice Pro-Route cycle cape, like the one my friend Diane had in the picture above. Unfortunately, it can only be ordered in the UK (and in some select stores in the US) and is quite expensive (mostly because of the shipping fee). According to Diane, it was also quite heavy and bulky so she eventually sold it. She now favors cheap PVC rain ponchos, which I guess are similar to what I'm using now. So, now I've been researching alternatives online.
Below are some of the options I'm currently considering. All of these can be ordered online from the US.
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For many, the raining is enough a reason to not even try biking as a primary mode of transportation but there are several means to work around it. With traffic getting worse and worse everyday in Metro Manila, it's about time people start thinking of riding a bicycle as a viable means of transportation, even in the rain.
As mentioned in my last post, I have three ways to deal with the rain.
Large garbage bag for my messenger bag
Newly-installed fenders
My rain poncho
As I've tested yesterday, the poncho and fender combination is quite effective in keeping my clothes dry (I was wearing a shirt and a pair of shorts). The key is to hold the poncho over the handle bars so that it'll act like a tent covering my legs and my bicycle. This allows for maximum coverage of the bicycle top tube and the rider's thighs. The opening underneath the cape ensures ventilation. Wearing traditional rain coats while biking can cause a lot of sweating so letting the air in is very important.
How to wear a rain cape / poncho on a bike
Image borrowed from Diane's blog - unfoldandcycle.com
My rain poncho isn't really designed for this function. It doesn't have a clip for handlebar attachment nor thumbs loops to keep it in place when I stretch out my arms. I actually have to hold the poncho onto my bars with my hands, thus making it impossible for me to signal with my hands. I also need one that has a better coverage for the side. My rain poncho is quite open on the sides so it flaps with the wind and so there isn't much coverage for the lower part of my legs (i.e. wet shoes).
I originally wanted a Carradice Pro-Route cycle cape, like the one my friend Diane had in the picture above. Unfortunately, it can only be ordered in the UK (and in some select stores in the US) and is quite expensive (mostly because of the shipping fee). According to Diane, it was also quite heavy and bulky so she eventually sold it. She now favors cheap PVC rain ponchos, which I guess are similar to what I'm using now. So, now I've been researching alternatives online.
Below are some of the options I'm currently considering. All of these can be ordered online from the US.
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Grunden's Bike Poncho from Rivendell Bicycle Works - $122
Ultrex Rain Cape from Oregon's Center for Appropriate Transport - $79
Rain cape from J&G Cyclewear - $49.95
Bicycle cape from Campmor.com - $34.99
Ventura Rain Poncho from Amazon - $13.51
Bike rain poncho from The Monkey King - $9
If I had the money, I'd go for the Grunden's rain poncho because it offers good bike and leg coverage. But I looked for reviews of the Campmor bike cape and I think it's also a very decent cape for a lower price. So I've decided I'll save up for that one so I can buy it together with my tires and pedals. But I might also purchase the one from Ventura or The Monkey King just so I can have a comparison.
For many, the raining is enough a reason to not even try biking as a primary mode of transportation but there are several means to work around it. With traffic getting worse and worse everyday in Metro Manila, it's about time people start thinking of riding a bicycle as a viable means of transportation, even in the rain.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Biking to a Dinner Meeting
Shirley parked outside the Rockwell Power Plant Mall
Tonight (well, last night) I was invited to dinner with a couple of guys from work (our Canadian senior budget specialist and our guest from S. Korea). Dinner was at 7:30PM and I was able to leave the office a few minutes before 6:30PM. After a few kilometers, it started to rain hard. It was my first time to get caught in the middle of a downpour while biking to a destination other than my house. Nonetheless, I was ready for this contingency. I stopped by the side of the road beneath a tree, placed my bag inside a large garbage bag, sealed the bag with a rubber band, and wore my rain coat. In less than 10 minutes I was riding again.
In Manila, as soon as the rain pours, horrendous traffic will follow - good thing I was on my bike. I might be a little wet (the rain stopped a few minutes later) but at least I was able to go from my office to Rockwell in 30minutes (it's about 9KM away). Unfortunately, the people I was supposed to have dinner with weren't as lucky.
Nagbike ako papunta sa isang dinner meeting. Naka iwas sa trafik. 30mins lang. Kaso nga lang yung mga ka-meeting natrafik. #bikerproblemsEventually the two of them arrived and we had a nice dinner. Then the rain started to pour again. It was even raining when I was biking on my way home. But I dealt with the downpour in the same way I dealt with it earlier. I just wish my fenders would arrive already. Oh well, I might be a little wet but it's nothing a good towel can't handle.
— Omi Castañar (@ocastanar) September 17, 2013
Today's total ride mileage: 28.17km
Today's bike lesson: Rain is not an excuse to stop biking.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Riding with Team Adventureros
The lone photo I took during the ride
Last Saturday, I joined my friend Paolo and his group Team Adventureros on their newbie ride around the Sierra Madre loop. It was my third time to go around that route so I was expecting the ride to be easier than in the past. Unlike my previous long rides, I opted to just bring my rear rack pack with me and leave the belt bag at home. I also packed less stuff (no extra food) and instead of wearing my usual Merrell Trail gloves, I wore my Sandugo sandals.
After meeting up with Paolo and Drake (a first timer) near Cogeo, we pedaled to our first pitstop, about 35km into our ride (I can't remember the name of the place so I need to take a photo next time). In the pitstop, we refilled our water bottles and my two companions drank bottles of soda to get energy from sugars. After a few minutes of rest and pleasantries, we went on our way.
After a few kilometers, Paolo and I noticed that Drake stopped a few meters back. Apparently, he was having troubles with his rear cassette - his bike's chain won't go into the cog when shifting. Paolo, the ever reliable mechanic, busted out his screwdriver and adjusted the rear derailleur. And so we went on our way.
After a kilometer or so, I heard air coming our of my rear wheel. I stopped and checked my tire and I saw that my bike has suffered a flat. For the record, this has been Shirley's third flat since I got her over a month ago. I actually get a flat tire every time I go for a long ride. With Drake's help, I was getting ready to replace the inner tube (bought one spare after my last mishap) when a guy approached me and told me to just have the wheel vulcanized. When I asked the manong where the nearest shop was, he pointed to the shop right across the street. I was so focused on removing the wheel that I didn't notice the shop. After a few minutes, the 18-peso vulcanizing job was done and we were on our way.
We went through our usual routes and usual stops (soda break at the kawayan kubo and lunch at that eatery in front of Pranjetto Resort). The Adventureros are actually a fun bunch to ride with. Most of them ride in mountain bikes. I liked hearing their experiences in their long rides including their multi-day ride to Baguio. I guess that ride won't be the last time I'd be joining their group.
----
Currently, a couple of things about Shirley is bugging me. First, I think I need to find a better set of tires. Currently, I'm using Kenda Klimax Lite. These tires are very light. But as my experience have shown, they're prone to punctures because they are quite thin. Touring bikes need bomb-proof tires that can survive harsh road conditions. But at the same time, I need tires with little rolling resistance so I can easily accelerate on pavement. I'm currently looking for a shop in Metro Manila that carries any one of the following:
- Continental Travel Contact
- Continental Touring Plus
- Schwalbe Marathon Plus
- Schwalbe Marathon Extreme
- Schwalbe Marathon Dureme
- Vittoria Randonneur
I also want to change my pedals. I'm currently using a pair of Exustar P-921 pedals. They're cool looking pedals because of their small size. At first, my only problem with them is their sharp teeth. My legs kept getting small wound whenever my calf accidentally hits a pedal. But after last Saturday's long ride, I realized that their small size is also a problem.
This is how my pedal comes in contact with my footwear - (left) Merrell Trail Glove and (right) Sandugo sandals
The effective surface of my pedals are about 75mm only. The consequence of the short width is pain in the knees during hard pedaling. I learned this after last Saturday's ride. Because part of my foot isn't leveled on the pedal, my knees either flex inward or outward. This lateral stress on the knees caused some mild pain in my inner right knee a few days after the ride. The small surface area of the pedal makes for a slippery hold during wet conditions. In addition, bigger pedals would definitely provide better power transfer per downstroke.
Any of the following pedals would be excellent replacement for the ones I have:
MKS Sylvan Touring
MKS Lambda
Velo Orange Touring
Monday, August 26, 2013
Shirley at the Million People March
This morning, I brought Shirley to Quirino Grandstand to join the Million People March against the abuses in the use of the pork barrel. Although I went on my own, I had a great time hanging out with the other bikers.
All 'em boys kept staring at her racks
There were actually several bikers who approached me, admiring Shirley's racks. They'd ask me where I got her and if I go on touring. Then our conversation would shift towards the issue of the pork barrel and we'd talk to about what we think can and should be done. Not bad. Good job bikers!
I was going around with some random bikers
More bikers
Fixie community represented
Next time I ride a bike to a rally, I'd bring a flag along
These bikers were riding chromed cruisers. Astig!
The WTF moment of the day. Impeached Chief Justice Corona showed up and people boo-ed and shouted "Epal!"
There were a lot more interesting stuff that I saw in the rally, like bikers wearing Guy Fawkes masks, witty banners, copper-plated bikes, recumbents, members of the Tiklop Society of the Philippines, and mini velos. Unfortunately, my phone won't turn on any more. I wish I had a better smartphone for times like this.
Oh well.
*oink oink oink oink oink oink*
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