Motorists and PALM

Information for drivers of larger, faster vehicles who may not agree with road cycling.

If you have to slow down to 20 mph and follow a cyclist for one mile, it takes about three minutes of your time. This is around the same delay as waiting for one stoplight.

Sidewalks are designed for pedestrians. It is unsafe for mixed traffic of bicycles along with walkers, joggers, people pushing strollers or walking dogs.

Most cyclists prefer to use bike paths for commuting, family outings, etc. but they are not suitable for an organized ride with around 500 individuals. PALM Bike Tour is accompanied by Support and Gear (SAG) volunteers in cars and trucks who cannot access the bike paths.

Most cyclists also have a motorized vehicle and also pay for licenses, pay the gas tax and otherwise contribute the same revenue for our roads.

Except for interstate freeways where non-motorized traffic is prohibited, most of our roads are multi-use and you may experience slower traffic such as equestrians, tractors, horse and buggy, and bicycles. These alternate means of transportation are legal and proper users of our roadways.

It’s true that some cyclists do not follow all of the laws pertaining to road cycling. It’s also fair to say that many motorists do not follow all of the laws. Speeding, driving distracted, and other unlawful activity poses a threat to all users of our roads.