Originally Posted by
-=Łem in Pa=-
Yes, REALLY !!
It doesnt warrant getting into stuff that might offend people or derail the thread
but 'urban camoflage' is a very important safety feature for commuting through
bad areas. All the stuff I said Id never do or become went out the window when
my commute went through Riviera Beach in FL., one of the highest concentrations
of violent gangs in the country. Over time I have found that looking homeless has
helped. If you've ever been chased, have people block you with a car to sell drugs,
or get the 'Thats my bike' by a gang of angry teens twice a week you'd understand
better. Now, I dress down, ride a beater and have more weapons than DiNero in
Taxi Driver and Im OK. If you look like you have -anything- worth 5.00 they will
try to take it.
I grew up in a bad neighborhood, and I completely agree with this advice. If you wear spandex and bright jerseys and have a really nice bike, you will be a marked target by anyone standing around with nothing better to do.
Originally Posted by
anthegreat1
In poor areas there are alot of people on bikes but not many cyclist.
Exactly. It helps to look more like "some dude on a bike" and not a "cyclist." That's why I normally ride through these areas in cargo shorts, basketball shorts, or jeans with the leg rolled up. And an ordinary shirt. If the neighborhood is bad enough to worry about, just blend in and you're fine.