Thread: Do you wave?
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Old 03-12-26 | 10:16 AM
  #21  
flangehead
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Joined: Dec 2006
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From: Houston, TX

Bikes: 2017 Co-op ADV 1.1; ~1991 Novara Arriba; 1990 Fuji Palisade; mid-90's Moots Tandem; 1985 Performance Superbe

I use a helmet mirror to maintain situational awareness of what's coming up behind me. My practice (which isn't 100%; sometimes my attention is up front or my hands aren't available..)
  • If I see a motorist in the lane next to me change lanes for more separation, I wave to them in a "thanks" manner.
  • If I see a motorist approaching in the lane next to me and getting within 100', I swing my head (I don't really look) then I'll lift fingers off left side to acknowledge their presence as they pass.
  • If I see any large vehicle (commercial truck, semi, pickup truck pulling a visible trailer) I'll wave to them early 200-400' to let them know I know they're coming up. I yell out either "trailer" or "heavy" to remind myself that there will be more exposure in both length and width, and to be ready for a wind buffet.
I don't know which motorists appreciate this or which ones it infuriates. Most likely 99% don't notice at all. However, these practices make me feel better.
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