While we’ve referred to him as “J from Perth” to protect his identity, this Super UpRider is close to marking his 100th incident post on UpRide.
A firm advocate for recording rides, he states, “I record my riding because… people will lie. It’s just that simple.” With the trusted Fly 12 by Cycliq as his companion, J documents everything from prevalent road hazards to the unanticipated behaviors of other road users. He commends UpRide for being an “awesome platform” and emphasizes the need for robust infrastructure and thorough education for cyclists.
“Record your ride. Make it count.
Why do you record your ride?
I record my riding because I work with people and I know that in the absence of other forms of accountability, people will lie. It’s just that simple. The Fly 12 is a solid, reliable unit that takes care of all that. I also record because I believe that good data collection can lead to positive outcomes in education and infrastructure design. I also record for a bit of a laugh because I never know what dumb thing I’m going to see next.
What do you think about UpRide?
Upride is an awesome platform that is steadily building up a density of data that is providing great information about the nature of cycling hazards. It provides an excellent reference database of driver/rider behaviour.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road?
Well thought-out infrastructure makes a huge difference to cyclists. I have seen structures built by local councils that supposedly make cycling safer but have done the exact opposite. Good driver/rider education is also very important. Most people think they are great drivers and will even try to justify why they ‘speed up for orange and slow down for green’ or, why they are OK running a red signal or, why cyclists aren’t allowed on roundabouts. The same goes for cyclists. I have witnessed a Fremantle cyclist dressed in black, no lights, no helmet, wrong side of the road, both hands on their mobile, at night. There can never be too much good quality education.
What do you ride with?
I have a Fly 12 attached to my helmet. It records where I am looking. So far, only one sour person has tried to tell me that is illegal – the police have no problem with it.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
We are all pushing towards a low-carbon economy. I’m not sure about those people that drive those big, puffy ego-utes, but most are trying, and that often means cycling. I easily save $1000/month by not having a second car at home, I stay fit and I arrive at work feeling invigorated rather than annoyed by the traffic. My best advice is to gear up with a helmet, hi-viz, lights, and a Cycliq camera. Educate yourself. Check up on road rules as they relate to tricky things like double-lane roundabouts (did you know cyclists can do hook turns in these?). Communicate with your local council in a positive tone if things aren’t right – they really like positive people rather than whingers.
Most of all, get on your bike and ride. Feel the joy of the sun, the breeze, the rain, and freedom. Cycliq has got your back.
Thanks for using UpRide J!
Want to share your story?
We’d love to hear from you. If you would like to share your stories and experience as a cyclist please reach out to the UpRide team.
