General Cycling Discussion - Why do I always seem to attract the jerks?

This is something that's been bugging me for a while and I'm curious if this is commonplace or if I'm just 'lucky'. In the past few months I've had objects thrown at me from moving cars, the most recent being just a few days ago (truck full of high school kids), as well as one instance where I was crossing an intersection in front of a stopped vehicle where the driver decided to honk at me right as I was in front of the vehicle. So far I haven't actually been hit with anything (knock on wood) and the honking thing didn't startle me enough to be a problem, but if these encounters continue it's just a matter of time. As far as I know I'm being a good citizen on the road -- I stay on the shoulder whenever possible and I'm always carfeul and courteous at intersections. I don't know if this is normal or if I'm just surrounded by a-holes in this area. Does group riding helps alleviate such things (safety in numbers)?

Grendel,

yeah, I hear ya.
Group rides will help, but it won't keep the
a**holes from being what they are.
Texas, ya gotta love it, where else can you get
the state that produced Lance Armstrong, and the
most ignorant Junior Varsity redneck morons.
you learn to live with it, and be a very
defensive rider. . .

Marty

Dosent this guy just say to you "throw shît at me"? :D

Klein -- heh, maybe that's it, I dunno. It could be worse; right now I ride in t-shirts and baggy MTB shorts -- I can only imagine how much more fun it would be to ride in full Lycra regalia and see how many a-holes I troll up with that getup. No thanks...

Originally posted by KleinMp99
Dosent this guy just say to you "throw shît at me"? :D

Originally posted by Hunter



no no, thats after the shît was thrown.....hahhahahahahhahaahh:D

I wonder if this is a problem just here in Texas or else where across the country. The Samething happened to my riding partner one day while he was out by himself. There was no warning just a flash went by his head as a couple of kids went by in a truck, he was out on a lone contry road and then they came back again and stopped like they were going to do somthing, good for him a car happened to come up, they got back in their truck, he happened to get the tag number and reported them to the sheriff, it was registered to one of the kids parents. The sheriff went to go pay them the parents a little visit and let them know what their little boy was up to!! Hopefully they were scared enough that the won't do it again.

That is just horrible!!! I never run into anything like that out here so far atleast. Most drivers that pass me, give me plenty of room. A older gentlemen riding opposite direction honked his horn and waved. I pass by a few schools mainly elementary and junior high, and some of them wave or say HI as I pass.. Riding through carbon canyon a few months ago, a guy in a truck gave me thumbs up as he passed me..

Originally posted by northtex
he happened to get the tag number and reported them to the sheriff, it was registered to one of the kids parents. The sheriff went to go pay them the parents a little visit and let them know what their little boy was up to!! Hopefully they were scared enough that the won't do it again.

That's what you should do when confronted with jerks. Just call the cops and let them deal with it.

I tend to be a little assertive while riding. If a car comes to an intersection as I am entering it, I'm likely to point to the driver or yell, "Hey!" or something to get the driver's attention. I'm not rude, but I do want drivers to know where I am and what I am doing. I'm also likely to acknowledge good behavior from drivers--a wave, a thank you if a window's down. I like saying things to drivers when their windows are open; they don't expect that. Not much anyone can do, though, to stop missile-launching teenagers.

Yo, Grendel.
It's about them, not you.
Keep on riding. Keep on smiling!
the g3

With a Klein jersey on- no way. A Klein jersey says this guy demands respect. I am proud when I have on my Klein jersey..In fact my Klein kit says Klein from ankles to jersey sleeves..
When new, my Klein bike would catch the eye of many a roadie.That is the group that I seek out for support.
Others don't like my garb, screw 'em.. I do put on a pair of soccer shorts when I go into stores, etc. Other than that, Cycle gear is comfortable and designed to be functional..While on the bike, I don't care what others think... Not the group that I have any intention of pleasing..

Similar experience a few years ago....pickup, redneck teenagers, thrown can.

A few miles down the road I see the pickup stopped at a diner, went inside wearing my lacra & flowerpower jersey, looked around, it was full of cowboy types, saw the boys at a table in their cowboy hats and boots.

Walked over to the table, and said in a loud voice "which one of you pu55ys threw the DIET PEPSI can at me.

Not a word from anyone in the room, how disappointing.

Originally posted by 1oldRoadie

Walked over to the table, and said in a loud voice "which one of you pu55ys threw the DIET PEPSI can at me.

Not a word from anyone in the room, how disappointing.

That reminds me of the time some piece of tourist scum wanted to shout abuse at me riding up Springbrook mountain a few years back. The didn't realise that 1. that road is a dead-end, and 2. On Springbrook I can keep up with anyone (I'd kick Lance's butt if he'd ever ride it). Sure enough I soon caught up with them. You've never seen anyone change their approach so quickly. It's amazing how gutless some people become when they lose that steel cage.

Its only happened to me once. Some 15 year old punk (I shouldn't be calling them punks given my age) decided to throw his pop can at me. I got off my bike, asked him why he did that. He sarcastically said he was bored. So I broke his nose and threw him into a wall and told him if he touched me again, I'd kill him so help me g-d. When someone distracts my riding, I get damn pissed. Same with J-walkers. I ain't stopping for them just because they believe it is alright to break the law.

Fear not! Help is on the way! My biking industry informants have told me that Shimano is currently developing a top secret, unique device which will enable vulnerable cyclists to retaliate against overly aggressive drivers. Carrying the code name "JRD," which stands for "Jerk Retaliation Device," this revolutionary new product is due to be on the market in early 2003.
The JRD is a small, heat seeking lightweight missile mounted on the cyclist's fork. When a cyclist carrying this device is crowded off the road or otherwise hassled, he or she simply pushes a bar-mounted button, launching the JRD. Seconds later, the missile silently wedges itself in the perpetrator's exhaust pipe, forming a tight seal. Unaware of what has happened, the jerk continues driving for a few miles until his engine explodes and stops. The retaliating cyclist then approaches the disabled car, opens the driver door, pulls him out, and beats the s**t out of him.
According to a reliable Shimano insider, JRD's will sell for only $1 each, which includes titanium mounting brackets. They will be available in single configurations as well as what is sure to be a popular option -- a 6 six pack cluster for only $4.95.
Happy hunting. :D

Maybe the problem is that you live in Texas.

On these forums, complaints about bad drivers who seem to be aggressive against bicyclists usually come from Texas.

Mike. We see them out here in California. Sure seems Texans have more complaints, than we do out here.. Worst thing happened to a friend while riding together. She was hit by a flying ice cream cone.. Hit right on her back..
Kids or high schoolers- common thread everywhere. Immature. What they think does not matter to me, as long as they do not run over us.. The ice cream cone incident was caused by some punk kid...

Originally posted by WorldIRC
Same with J-walkers. I ain't stopping for them just because they believe it is alright to break the law.

I always call out "I hit jay walkers ", still haven't had anything thrown at me except words.

And here I thought this was going to be a thread on dating
:beer:

Originally posted by trmcgeehan
Shimano is currently developing a top secret, unique device which will enable vulnerable cyclists to retaliate against overly aggressive drivers. Carrying the code name "JRD," which stands for "Jerk Retaliation Device," this revolutionary new product is due to be on the market in early 2003.
The JRD is a small, heat seeking lightweight missile mounted on the cyclist's fork.

Oh really? Guess what, too difficult to believe. I would really love to have one of that product available in the market.

WorldIRC, though I wouldn't agree with you doing that, I would have done worst than you if someone really bothered me on my ride. I'll make sure he/she won't even dare to bully a toddler on a tricycle. HEHEHEHE :D

Aholes everywhere,lots here in LA.

Originally posted by mike
Maybe the problem is that you live in Texas.

On these forums, complaints about bad drivers who seem to be aggressive against bicyclists usually come from Texas.

Unfortunately, Texas does not have a monopoly on this type of thing. I live in Pennsylvania, and I cannot remember a road ride where someone didn't disrespect me in some way. I live in a rural area, which may be part of the issue. I’ve had “drivers” shout obscenities; throw stuff (soda cans, cigarettes, etc); zip by @ top speed within inches of my handlebars– to actually hitting me and sending me to the hospital.

I’ve just about given up on the thought of living in harmony with automobile drivers. I now pack pepper spray, dog repellant, and occasionally (depending on where I ride) a handgun. I really hate to pack any of this stuff, but in the event that I have to defend myself – I like to be prepared.

The one thing I'm not prepared to do is quit riding due to these jerks. :D

i used to ride a lot just north of the woodlands in willis. had stuff thrown at me.

Originally posted by cyclezealot
With a Klein jersey on- no way. A Klein jersey says this guy demands respect. I am proud when I have on my Klein jersey..In fact my Klein kit says Klein from ankles to jersey sleeves..
When new, my Klein bike would catch the eye of many a roadie.That is the group that I seek out for support.
Others don't like my garb, screw 'em.. I do put on a pair of soccer shorts when I go into stores, etc. Other than that, Cycle gear is comfortable and designed to be functional..While on the bike, I don't care what others think... Not the group that I have any intention of pleasing..


Let me shake your hand.

Originally posted by Grendel
In the past few months I've had objects thrown at me from moving cars...
People who do such things often don't realize the consequences they may face if confronted by the police. One court here in the Atlanta region several years ago awarded about $6,000 to a cyclist after he was hit with a candy bar thrown by a passing vehicle.

After going through enough of life's trials myself, it amazes me how some people still act as if they'll never be taught a lesson
by the "wheel of fortune." ;)

I have had loads of problems with people trying to throw stuff, people making comments, lads in cars trying to feel my arse while they are still in the back seat of the car that was scary they were driving so close and I didn't know what to do I really thought I was going to come off my bike!! I think that sum people are just jealous I mean are they getting off their fat arses and cycling to places???? :p I also get jibes about my cycling hat too!! the worst thing is I think its harder when u are a lone girl out cycling and u come across a load of males hurling abuse but I always tell someone where I am going and always carry my fone, money etc!! So if I get stuck in a jam I can get help :D

trmcgeehan lmfao at ur post!! :D

I was just reading that Sports Illustrated article about lance and it mentioned all the stuff thrown at him by morons in texas, and all the times he was harassed etc. It does seem that TX has a lot of that, probably due to being a real 'car'culture where cyclists are regarded as the enemy, like LOs Angeles. That and the 'redneck' pickup truck culture. Too bad because TX seems to have a lot going for cyclists, warm weather, lots of open roads, etc.

I've occasionally been yelled at but interestingly enough, the rural roads are the best, for the most parts. The drivers tend to drive fast but give cyclists a wide berth. Anyways, no one attracts jerks more than anyone else. Even Lance gets harrassed!

This morning on the way home from my commute, I stopped at the money machine at my bank. A jerk came up, I thought he was using the f word at the machine. I did not look at him, but with my back turned to him, I caught a glance of him through my mirror attached to my glasses.
It was not the money machine. It was me.. Loose any sleep over it. No.. And I had my my California Republic Jersey with a fairly large US flag on the back.. Can't please them, so to hell with them.
And here I am in supposedly tolerant California with enlightened motorists ! Just hope we cyclists don't have to come to packing heat- guess I would do that over giving up my cycling... But, lets not overact- this does not happen- at most more than once a ride, if that.. There are jerks everywhere...
What was amazing. by the numbers such behavior is usually shown by punks under 20- naw, this guy looked around 30 plus .. He had a huge gut and when he got out of his van he was smoking..

He sounds like a jealous git after all would u like to be podgey unfit fat geezer like him??? I'm sure u wouldn't people only say stuff when they are either 1) extremely jealous and 2) scared

:roflmao:

Queensland is the Texas of Australia. :cry:

i've had a lit cigarette flicked at me from a moving car. that and a soda can (on different occasions) and of course the occasional honk or hand gesture.

be careful out there. 700 cyclists get killed every year and 54,000 injuries from bicycle accidents each year.

now let's roll!!

I just remembered an incident from years ago. I wasn't into cycling as seriously but I used to ride my bike a lot and one day I was out on a nice ride and these guys in a car started following me and making catcalls, hooting and horny-guy noises. THey all looked like Cheech and Chong. They were yelling "Hey baby!" and one of them flicked a cigarette out of his window, narrowly missing my leg. I yelled ,"watch it you idiot!" and one of them said, "hey, we got a live one here!" Like I was a trout or something. I said, "Get lost, f-ers" and they just laughed and drove off.

Originally posted by Grendel
This is something that's been bugging me for a while and I'm curious if this is commonplace or if I'm just 'lucky'. In the past few months I've had objects thrown at me from moving cars, the most recent being just a few days ago (truck full of high school kids), a So just wait till you get hit with "NICE A_S!!". by a bunch of high school morons.Will make you wonder of it's a compliment or maybe yer playing to the wrong crowd.;)

There have been numerous times something has been thrown at me.. Guess the worst time, In front of the high school- and they were high schoolers; traffic was barely moving, so some high school idiot, spit at me.. The brat's spit actually hit me on my lower calf..

Originally posted by pokey
So just wait till you get hit with "NICE A_S!!". by a bunch of high school morons.Will make you wonder of it's a compliment or maybe yer playing to the wrong crowd.;)

I know....and I hate to ask...But... Pokey... is this compliment of "nice a_s"...... is this a personal experience of yours?

Originally posted by 1oldRoadie


I know....and I hate to ask...But... Pokey... is this compliment of "nice a_s"...... is this a personal experience of yours? Sure...why do you ask?

Gee, you even attract them here.

Cheers...Gary

I've never been attacked by words or objects. I think part of it might be that I look like a twelve year old, so they think I'm just a kid. :confused:

Originally posted by christine
I've never been attacked by words or objects. I think part of it might be that I look like a twelve year old, so they think I'm just a kid. :confused:

Maybe they've seen your avatar? Unfortunately that doesn't work for me. :cry:

be careful out there. 700 cyclists get killed every year and 54,000 injuries from bicycle accidents each year.

Yikes that a bit high isn't it!!!! I think that over here u are five times more likely to be involved in a road traffic accident over here riding on the roads!!!

I have been hit twice in 7 years but only sustained bad bruising and scrapes oh and not too forget the guy who slowed down to overtake me then pulled in blatantly on my left then slammed the car door open in my path!!!! I hit his door at over 20 mph he saw me but he didn't care about me obviously!!! he said "Sorry I didn't see u" but he did because he pulled in right in front of me!!! Too busy fiddling round with bills on the passenger seat!!! I always look out for people opening doors but I knew he had seen me!!
:( the second time someone turned left straight into me I went flying right over the bonnet and that nearly put me off cycling for good but I can't I love it too much to give it up!! ;)

Nice ass is frequently shouted at me all Summer long but I don't seem to have that many problems in the winter though!!! :rolleyes:

I have been riding my bike for a long time, been very lucky, no stuffs has ever been thrown at me, that is knock on wood, the last time I was bragging about not having flat, I have five (5) flats in just one ride, cross the fingers guys....

Originally posted by Giant_racer
I have been hit twice in 7 years but only sustained bad bruising and scrapes oh and not too forget the guy who slowed down to overtake me then pulled in blatantly on my left then slammed the car door open in my path!!!! I hit his door at over 20 mph he saw me but he didn't care about me obviously!!! he said "Sorry I didn't see u" but he did because he pulled in right in front of me!!!

When that happens, take down a # and call the cops. That tosser obviously thought he was funny. Let's see how funny he thinks he is with a 10.30pm phone call from the police.

Originally posted by Chris L


When that happens, take down a # and call the cops. That tosser obviously thought he was funny. Let's see how funny he thinks he is with a 10.30pm phone call from the police.

yes that's another option, and considering the response time of the cops here in T.O. is about two (2) minutes, man that guy will be going some where else....:crash: :crash: :crash: :crash:

I am really starting to appreciate riding in rural Wisconsin. Alot of my riding is done in the summer evenings, I have ride 30 miles on sunday nite and only see 2 or 3 cars the whole ride - none of which threw anything at me! During week nites I usually see 20-25 cars/trucks over a couple hour span. Man, I love the country!

Even when I do venture into the metropolis (Milwaukee metro area), I have not had anything thrown at me, or yelled at me. Centuries, 150-mile weekends, all have been very freindly from the 'cages'. I have not heard of any problems with others riding in the Milwaukee metro area either. Must be Texas & west coast....(knock on wood)

....although I do get on occasional 'honk' from the interstate when I am out running.

Many moons ago, when I lived in Wichita, Kansas, three guys in a convertible with the top down threw a lighted firecracker at me. Luckily, it missed as it exploded. Down the road, they got caught in a long line of stopped traffic. I almost got to them, but the line of cars started moving just before I reached them. This was probably a good thing. As I approached them, I had visions of climbing over the trunk, jumping into their midst, and punching them all into the middle of next week. In real life, they probably would have thoroughly whopped my a** and taken my bike to boot! In my dreams, I'm Clint Eastwood. In real life, I'm Rodney Dangerfield! The good Lord was watching out for me that day!

Good grief, you could really have been hurt! I would have tried to get their license number and reported them. What if the firecracker had hurt someone else, maybe a little kid or someone driving or whatever? My advice is in situations like that, take down their number but don't try to catch up to them. You never know what kind of things people can do.