Originally Posted by
tarwheel
This is one reason why I don't actively try to "convert" people to bike commuting. I would feel terrible if I talked someone into biking to work, and then they got run over. When I started commuting, I was already a serious cyclist riding 6,000-7,000 miles a year. I was used to riding on the roads and had a helmet, a good supply of bright jerseys, tail light, etc. Although nearly everyone knows how to ride a bike, many people haven't really acquired the equipment and skills to ride in traffic. I'm not saying it can't be done by newbies, I'm just saying it is less safe unless you are willing to invest some money and learn.
when my coworker saw me riding to work last year she started asking me questions- i went over my experience, the equipment and of course told her to plan her route using google to avoid riding on the sidewalk. i can't say that i actively tried to convert her- i merely gave her some encouragement and the benefit of my experience.