In any case folks, remember that like the war on terrorism (auto-terrorism?), earning the respect of vehicle drivers on the roadways is an ongoing battle. I find the best way is to get out and ride courteously and professionally, with reasonable deference given that (in my opinion) cyclists are secondary road users. Riding in the countryside like I do, it is quite rare for me to have an unpleasant encounter with a vehicle, simply because I choose roads that have (for the most part) a decent shoulder and moderate traffic.
It was bizarre to read this complaint about a bicycle rally to raise money. Heck, most of the time when I see bicycle rallies on the road drivers are honking and giving thumbs up, since it is a highly visible way to support a cause. While any sort of rally, march, parade, or whatever is going to 'disrupt traffic' in some way, I still think such rallies present a positive image of cycling.
roughstuff
roughstuff