TRAIL RAGE!

Packs of Racing Cyclists Set Blood

Boiling on West Bethesda Stretch of CCT

Several users of the Capital Crescent Trail have reported a substantial increase in cyclists using the hiker-biker route to train for racing. Solo, or in packs as large as 20 cyclists, their speed and sheer numbers are intimidating other users of the trail. There have been several impolite verbal confrontations reported as well, after trailgoers warned the cyclists they were endangering others.

The reports are all from west of downtown Bethesda, and specifically, west of Dorset Avenue in Kenwood. This makes sense because that is the last at-grade crossing on the trail until it reaches Georgetown. That means there is no mandatory stop along that stretch, and is perfect for high-speed cycling.

I think going fast is a good thing for exercise. It's also one of the most appealing features of intercity bike routes separated from auto traffic: in some cases, commuters may be able to get to work faster by bike than by car or transit. And that is a powerful selling point to non-cyclists considering becoming bike commuters.

However, the CCT is a shared-use path, and as they say, "can't we just all get along?" Packs of cyclists that large suddenly coming upon a mother pushing a stroller or a hard-of-hearing senior citizen are a recipe for a fatal disaster.

The rules regarding speed are somewhat murky. Generally, bikers are warned to keep to a "safe, reasonable speed." Of course, with such bike facilities being few, it's not surprising that racers would find the CCT the perfect place to train. I don't think they have any nefarious intent, but at the same time, users need to respect each other on the trail.

Serious accidents and injuries from bike-walker/jogger collisions are more frequent on the CCT than many realize. As the weather gets warmer, this is a good time to review some good safety practices on the trail.

First, do not use headphones, particularly if you are a pedestrian on the trail. Keep right. Cyclists should not ride more than 2 abreast. Cyclists should give a loud horn/bell/shouted warning well in advance of passing a pedestrian or fellow cyclist. Be prepared to slow or stop as congestion levels ahead change. If you are walking a dog, keep the length of leash short enough that your dog cannot stray into passing bike traffic, or bite fellow trailgoers. Parents should walk/ride behind their children.

As with much in life, common sense prevails. By being alert and respectful of others, you'll probably avoid 99% of bad behavior and accidents. If common sense is failing, simply turn to the above rules advocated by local CCT users and the Park Police, and everyone on the trail will have a safer and more enjoyable day.