Many of you who have been participating in the popular Father’s Day ride, sponsored by RECAP, for the past eight years, have been getting in touch to ask why we are not offering the supported ride this year. Our story, posted a few weeks ago, should answer your questions.
I feel sad to write that Route 329 is more dangerous than ever, with cars speeding, intrepid road cyclists bunched into groups, and pavement and potholes absolutely treacherous to recreational road users. RECAP cannot, in good heart, invite families with children in trailers or on smaller bicycles to ride on these roads, van supported or not.
Whenever we ride, visitors from other countries tell us over and over how lucky we are to have these quiet, scenic rides and have begged us to keep them pristine, citing bad decision-making in their own home towns over decades.
For me, a cyclist all my life, riding this route for forty years, I have had more close calls in the past six months than ever before. Our local adventure tour company, Freewheeling Adventures, which has its home in The Lodge and has been using this route for over 30 years, is considering dropping this gorgeous ride because it is too hazardous. Freewheeling was already forced to drop the Peggy’s Cove ride from its itinerary. In fact, the whole South Shore, unparalleled in beauty, has become very highly trafficked.
Though designated active transportation lanes would be lovely, it is more a perception of generous road sharing that we need to offer each other. Slowly down as we approach and pass pedestrians and cyclists in our cars gives the vulnerable road users a feeling that they are seen. On the other hand, it is up to all of us to be visible, and obey the rules of the road. Cyclists should use lights and bright clothing, and act predictably. Walkers should wear reflective clothing and/or carry flashlights when out in the evening, especially at dusk, and follow road safety rules.
Please join us in cycling the Aspotogan Route on Sunday, June 18th. We will meet at the Hubbards Barn at 10 a.m. and ride unsupported but in solidarity.
Catherine Guest, cyclist and resident of the Aspotogan Peninsula