September 24, 2005
The Conflicted American: to Consume or Conserve?
We Have a Choice
I have been watching traffic. Yes, I know. This sounds like a rather odd past time, or perhaps a little dull. But I have been looking at driving habits and parking lot business in the Falmouth area differently in recent weeks. With rising fuel prices the hot topic and a serious issue for most of us, one might think people would be more inclined to modify their behaviors. Each day, I observe the patterns and activity, anticipating some noticeable change. I don't see it happening. The drive up lines still seem popular- no better place to observe fuel consumption in action. Delivery vehicles (at least those without company policy against it) are often seen, heard and smelled, as they idle away while drivers make half hearted efforts at speedy service. Have you ever noticed that idling vehicles often have the slowest moving drivers? I would never have noticed before now. While traffic has seemed lighter and parking lots less crowded, I have to wonder whether that is just a reflection of our normal, post-summer slow down. I just don't see the American habits improving, and barring serious shortages and longterm price increases, I doubt we will see much difference at all.
Foreigners are light years ahead of us when it comes to being fuel and energy conscious. Other countries have come to grips with the realities of traffic congestion, pollution and fuel consumption and are far advanced in their lifestyle changes. Here in America we are dedicated consumers. It is a very American trait and one that many of us seem quite proud of. Unfortunately, it is this trait that may be our own worst enemy. Where other countries have grown from the lessons forced on them by economics and environment, America seems to blindly plow forward. We rarely take the time to look back (except to find blame in something negative), and seldom plan farther ahead than tomorrow (unless something good is upcoming). Benjamin Disraeli said, “In a progressive country change is constant; change is inevitable.” How progressive are we in America?
Here we have been given the opportunity to make the necessary changes. Must we be slapped in the face to wake from our slumber? Do we have to be dragged, kicking and screaming into altering our course? That seems the only way change comes in America. We have to get the crap kicked out of us, and then we have a short period of collective national awareness and clarity of purpose. Much gets talked about, people make a few vows to change things, some people even put their hearts and lives into urging forward progress, but then the passion wears off. In no time, the need seems less urgent. People get caught up in their own lives, their own agendas and the memories fade. Just what was it we were fighting for? What was that cause that seemed so worthy? Old habits, selfishness and petty differences drive a wedge between progress and the people who create it. How quickly we forget.
Cape Cod Has the Power to Change
Recycling, transportation choices, conservation, energy saving appliances, and clean energy producers like wind and solar power are all necessary to dealing with the issue of our oil dependence. Here on Cape Cod we are unique. We have the opportunity to be home to the first offshore wind farm in the country. We have the power to make a statement that it is time for change. Not supporting this project now- especially with the impending fuel shortages we now face, is just bull-headed ignorance. We can make a difference just by letting someone else do the work for us. How often does that happen? It is like giving to a charity without the giving and without the charity. Okay, maybe that sounds ridiculous, but you get the idea. With little or no personal effort we all have the ability to send a lasting message that we are not willing to be slaves to the oil any more. We have a choice, to consume or conserve. We have decisions to make, both personal and as a society that will determine the future for ourselves, our children and generations to come. What will those decisions be Cape Cod? What is your answer to this, and what directive will we send to those who represent our interests? This crisis has been looming on the horizon and we have ignored it for too long. The solution begins with us.
Posted by capecodcyclist at 08:57 PM | Comments (1)
September 19, 2005
Wake Time Adjustment
Vacations have a funny way of throwing a wrench into our sleep schedule. This morning I was planning to pedal to work, but I lost track of the time. The waking process didn't quite leave me enough wiggle room to get out on time. So, off with the bike shoes, on with the sneakers and off I go back to work.
I did get a fantastic ten mile ride in yesterday... just enough to start to get warmed up.
Posted by capecodcyclist at 07:13 AM | Comments (0)
September 16, 2005
Excuses for not Bicycle-Commuting on Cape Cod
I can't get there through the bridge traffic.
It takes a "wicked" long time to pedal there.
I can't "hit the packy" after work.
The rotaries are just too scary.
My dockers get caught in the chain.
The sea gulls poop on my seat while I'm at work.
My docksiders don't stay on my feet.
The beach sand is too hard to pedal through.
I can't find the canal tunnel.
My docksiders give me blisters.
The ride to Dunkin Donuts just takes too long.
My golf clubs don't fit in my panniers.
I miss the combat of driving to work.
(nobody flips me off and I never get tailgated... that sucks wicked bad!)
Posted by capecodcyclist at 09:46 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
September 14, 2005
Oregon Cyclist Charged With Manslaughter
This is a sad story out of Oregon where a cyclist hit a pedestrian at an unmarked crosswalk. The first question I have to ask is, what is an unmarked crosswalk? Isn't that an oxymoron? Either it is a crosswalk and it is marked, or it is NOT a crosswalk. The second question I have is, what about car versus bicycle cases? Why aren't drivers prosecuted for manslaughter in most of these cases?
I am not saying that there aren't cyclists who disregard traffic laws. There are plenty that seem to feel above the law: running stop signs, running lights, passing on the right, unannounced turns, riding without lights, and that is just the beginning. However, motorists are at fault for all of these offenses and then some, yet more pity seems to be taken on them. The majority of manslaughter cases against motorists who have killed cyclists are either reduced or dropped completely. Why? Because prosecutors know that jurors will take pity on the motorist, considering that they too have done what the motorist was doing when they plowed into the cyclist. The sad excuse that "we all do it" should not be acceptable. Anyone that disregards traffic laws, cyclist or motorist should be held accountable.
It is a sad state of affairs when cyclists are treated like second class citizens - and that seems to be happening more, the more crowded our streets get. It should be the opposite. We should be doing everything in our power to encourage cycling and making it safe for all concerned. Traffic might not be such a problem were alternative transportation more convenient and safe.
Posted by capecodcyclist at 09:17 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Progress in Inches
My plans for my vacation this week were to relax, enjoy life a little, and avoid driving anywhere at all cost. So far, the no driving part has worked out. Unfortunately, the head cold that attacked on the first of my vacation has limited my mobility and enjoyment so far.
Yesterday was my first attempt at getting out, and I limited myself to cycling to a local (two miles away) used bookstore. The chest felt tight and congested, I was chilled despite the 80 degree temperatures, and the nose began running furiously upon my return. All in all, I was just satisfied that I was able to get out into the smoggy air and sunshine. I was also grateful to have some new books.
Today, I am going to attempt a ride into town... perhaps shoot some photographs and do some exploring. Tomorrow, motorized transport will be necessary to get us into Boston. Jesse and I will be taking the commuter rail in to see the sights and visit some museums. Don't forget the Kleenex...
Posted by capecodcyclist at 08:25 AM | Comments (0)
September 11, 2005
Cycle Patriot, Cycle
I had not considered clipping into my pedals patriotic prior to viewing this commercial! Too bad this one never made it...
Posted by capecodcyclist at 05:17 PM | Comments (1)
September 10, 2005
Not so Easy Street
I am faced with the harsh reality that I will not be able to dive headlong back into the bicycle commute routine. An extended break from such leg exertion - due to my knees being junk, has forced me to take the cycling and exercise slow. Yes, cycling is easier on the knees than most exercise; but when you have spent most of your working career standing on concrete floors, the knees just can't take much. I must admit, it is very hard to swallow.
Glucosamine Chondroitin seems to help quite a bit, but the levels I need to feel comfortable give me horrible stomach problems. I think I see knee replacements in my future... something to look forward to.
Posted by capecodcyclist at 06:55 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
September 06, 2005
Saving Fuel
I got back to the bicycle commute today, and it felt good. I am happy to report that I cycled more than eight miles round trip and saved somewhere around $1.35 in gasoline. The roads leading from my neighborhood are a little narrow for comfort and are heavily traveled, but the effort is worth it. I almost feel like wearing a sign announcing my fuel cost me $0.00 (unless you count breakfast and lunch). That would really be putting a target on my back, however. The fact that the door to my place of work is not unlocked until 2 minutes before opening makes the pre-work wash down rather stressful. Other than that, I was pleased to roll into work under my own steam.
Weather conditions: Clear and sunny... perfect bike-commute weather
The ride in: 58 degrees, calm. Strong smell of exhaust
The ride home: 72 degrees and breezy. I was allowed out by a passing motorist to make the left turn across route 28.
Fellow cyclists sighted today: None on ride in, twenty or more while at work, five on ride home
Posted by capecodcyclist at 09:13 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Fuel Economy
It seems petty to be worrying about transportation costs when people are suffering through the likes of Hurricane Katrina. However, like most of us, I was concerned before Katrina roared ashore. After investigating hybrids and other more efficient vehicles, I started tracking my m.p.g. at www.fueleconomy.gov . I was surprised to find that my mileage was at least better than my little pick up was rated for. The EPA rates my vehicle for 24 m.p.g. highway and city, and I am getting 26 m.p.g., with primarily air-conditioned, city driving. There are definitely more efficient vehicles out there, but it helps to get the vehicle you have to where it is at peak performance. The key is keeping the vehicle well tuned and doing regular oil changes. Keeping the proper tire inflation is very helpful too.
Today, I should be getting much better mileage, as I will be self-propelled to work and back. Every little ride helps...
Posted by capecodcyclist at 06:26 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
September 05, 2005
Back in the Saddle
I took advantage of the holiday today to get a feel for the cycling route to work now that I have moved. I have been hesitant to pedal these roads, as I have been horrified at the way people drive in this area when I am in my vehicle. The routine just has not been as convenient with no cushion between my being able to get in to ready myself and the doors opening for business.
With gas prices where they are, and the weather not as oppressively hot, I decided to ditch the excuses and get back out there.
The ride from home to work took 15 minutes.
The return trip took 24 minutes.
Tomorrow, I am going to attempt the first true commute in a while. Wish me luck and pray for my safety. The gas prices haven't kept many people from stomping that gas pedal whenever they get the chance, and people have been combative out there.
Posted by capecodcyclist at 09:55 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack