There is nothing more liberating than riding a bicycle. I remember the day I got my bright-orange cruiser, complete with a silver bell and wicker basket, and proceeded to ride it from the bike shop in Snyder Plaza towards campus.
Having not mounted a bicycle in over ten years, I was, to say the least, unsteady; miraculously, I was able to navigate the University Park backstreets during the ruthless carpool hour.
It was scarcely thirty degrees, and by the time I reached campus, my hands were waxy and frostbitten but my spirits were high. From then on I rode my new bike every day with the uncontrollable glee of a small child.
The more I rode, however, the more I realized how bike-unfriendly SMU’s campus really is. The inadequacy of the campus’ facilities-too few bike racks too far apart-is crippling to the casual cyclist. This deficiency has engendered a campus population ignorant of common bicycle etiquette. In light of this campus-wide inexperience and with the advent of the $10 bikes available at the Outdoor Adventure Center (seriously, check it out), I have taken it upon myself to provide a few key guidelines for your perusal.
1). If a cyclist is approaching, do not panic. Continue on your original path. I assure you that the cyclist has already noted your speed and direction and has adjusted his or her movements to accommodate you, the pedestrian. Any attempt on your part to accommodate the cyclist will only result in an awkward two-stepping shimmy after which there will only be apologies and mutual embarrassment.
2). Building on the first guideline, try not to mosey down the Boulevard three abreast; it makes it very difficult for other pedestrians to pass you, and even more difficult for cyclists. As much as it thrills me to bike-stalk you and your friends while trying to maintain my balance at your leisurely pace, it is unsafe.
3). Don’t discard your unwanted items in someone else’s bike basket. This is the most important rule. I have an entire inventory of objects that were deliberately left in my basket by various buffoons and merry-makers. And although I was flattered by the burrito that was left in my basket last semester, I have to say I am picky about food that comes from strangers. It’s a basket-think Toto, not trashcan. I do, however, gladly accept flowers.
4). Feel free to shout a compliment at a passing cyclist noting the quality and charisma of his or her ride. I promise you it will be met with gratitude.
5). Invest in a bike of your own. Even though cycling through SMU has its burdens, it is one of the simplest pleasures of springtime. Take advantage of our lovely campus and maybe, just maybe, it will become a better place to bike!
Rebecca Quinn is a sophomore majoring in Spanish, French, and Art History. She can be reached for comment at [email protected].
