There's cycling and then there's cycling. A person shouldn't assume that because he, or she shares an interest in a common activity that he, or she necessarily shares a lot of the same views and values.

Someone who races on weekends might have quite a different outlook from someone who loves to bike rugged mountain trails. Someone who rides a folding bicycle along the beach occasionally might not have a lot in common with someone who has braved streets of a large city on a daily basis for more than half a century - as I have.

So, differences of opinion shouldn't surprise anyone. Hopefully there are a few people around big enough to tolerate those differences without resorting to personal comments. If not that's OK too.

Another new law affecting cyclists requires drivers give cyclists three feet. This has recently been brought in here in Florida and in Nova Scotia along with many other states and provinces. One report suggests its now in 20 states.

While it's comforting to see legislators trying to do something to give cyclists a little more space, it can make it harder for cars to pass (ie if they themselves are being passed on the left) and it can be confusing for some drivers. Some slow down and follow the bike, some will still try to squeeze past - often with less than inches to spare.

One comment I read suggests it's an "unenforcable law". Although violations remain frequent one report suggests the fine in Tennessee is for more than $100. Might be interesting to see how many drivers - if any have been charged with passing too close, or have even been warned about it.

Far too many seem to be completely unaware.

http://www.tampabay.com/news/publicsafety/bicyclist-wants-to...

http://www.bikingbis.com/blog/_archives/2008/3/5/3549263.htm...

http://www.3feetplease.com/