The Lance Effect
 

I've noticed a suprising uptick of good will from motorists during July. It was especially evident last Saturday morning when the River Ride made its way back into downtown. I noticed a few friendly beeps and waves from cars and a few folks on the sidewalk waved as we rode down J Street. Combine that with a couple of weeks of commutes without incident, and I think we've got the Lance Effect.

Anybody else notice it?

I expected to see both more cyclists and more friendly motorists but have not encountered either. Though the beastly heat (1FF cooler here than in Sacto too! I feel ya) probably contributed to people's poor moods.

I got a "Go Lance" from a kid the other day as I commuted home and happened to sprint down a particular side street.

Was glad the kid knew who Lance was... Who knows, maybe a generation is being built that will be more bike friendly.

Funny you mention that. I was walking from my office to the LBS to get my bike yesterday. I was wearing my yellow jersey and carrying my helmet & bag. I noticed people checking me out and smiling.

Either they thought I looked like an idiot, or maybe there was a Lance effect going on. :)

I had that happen last year. It was just a few days after the tour was over. I had finished riding on a road bike I had. I was driving home, windows down, and bike racked up in the back of my truck. I pulled up to a light. A SUV was next to me. I could see the kids pointing at me, and finally I heard the driver say, "No I don't think that is Lance". Light turned green, and one of the kids yelled " way to go Lance". I just had to laugh.

This year, I only have one "nice motorist". I was putting along on my mtn bike. Came up to a 4 way stop. All the cars that were at the stop honked or waved me on.

Nope, but I've noticed more aggressive group rides.

I got "nice ass" is this the same**********

Oh, I'm sorry your commute's been so boring lately...:D

No, but if someone tells you "your ass is beyond category" then you know they've been following the tour.

Well, lets see- in one week, I have been hit by a ford explorer, effing up my front wheel, thrown onto the street, getting injured in the process, all without a helmet, had a empty bottle thrown at me, and heard numerous threats and taunts.

Yea, call it the lance effect.

See... if you were wearing a helmet, and had on a yellow jersey... :rolleyes:

I get a negative effect. Year round I wear a high-vis, yellow vest. Now people see me and say, "what, are you trying to be like Lance?". People just assume that I'm out there because I'm tour-inspired, and I don't seem to get as much respect and space during this time of year.

I do have a yellow bag that I wear when I ride.. Does this help me?