This column is written as an imaginary conversation between Byron the Bicyclist and Wanda the Wannabe Cyclist.
Dear Byron.
I enjoyed the fun rides in the two Fall Go by Bike Weeks we had here in Williams Lake.
As you know, Go by Bike Weeks are to encourage people to swap driving for bicycling. So, I did a few shopping trips using my bike instead of driving. You told me, Byron that you preferred to use a backpack. But quite a few stores won’t let you take your backpack in! One says to leave it in your vehicle.
I really enjoy the fresh air and exercise I get. Byron, how do you deal with issues like that?
Signed, Wanda the Wannabe Cyclist
Dear Wanda,
Yes, we had a few great rides. I especially enjoyed the Thursday, Oct. 26 Take Back the Night ride and event.
When they say to leave your backpack in the vehicle, I leave it at the counter. Sometimes I get funny looks, but it works.
You could use panniers instead. Panniers are bike bags which hang on a rack on a bicycle. Another option is a wire or wicker basket front or rear of your bike.
Retailers, cyclists and walkers need to accommodate each other. Retailers need to know not all shoppers’ drive. By leaving your backpack at the service counter, we help reduce the store’s security cost.
Downtown, we can use a signpost, bench or bike rack donut to lock onto. But for larger businesses away from downtown, it would be great if they installed a bike rack or rail solidly embedded in concrete.
Thanks to Williams Lake Community Forest, the City of Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake, we have some new bike racks installed at Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Centre and other places.
Enjoy the fresh air. Dress for the weather. It sure is exhilarating this time of year. It clears my head!
Signed: Byron the Bicyclist
Bert Groenenberg has been cycling for over 60 years.
