I commute by bicycle. I also drive on occasion. The majority of drivers don’t commute by bicycle and dislike sharing the roads with us. I just want to say, we give them every reason to hate us. But I truly believe that if cyclists were just that little bit more polite on their bikes, it would improve the general public’s view of us exponentially. I’ve been riding to work the last few days and I just shake my head when I see fellow cyclists taking on cars and everyone else like it’s the world against them. Sometimes it is, I know – I’ve been on the wrong end of some motorists shocking driving.

But it’s the little things I’m talking about, like a wave to a motorist if he/she lets you through, a gesture of thanks as in I appreciated that. Not dashing over a pedestrian crossing when a mother and her kids are halfway across just because you think you can make it, but all you’re really doing is scaring the hell out of the mother and adding another hater-of-cyclists to the list.

Say thanks when a driver waits for you in a side road to come past. Most of them pull out without looking, so appreciate the fact that you’re not swerving to avoid him/her. Use hand signals to communicate to drivers as to what you’re about to do.  Half the problems in this world are down to poor communication, so over communicate. And then say thank you!

There are probably a bunch of other things I’ll think of later, but I promise you, if you just show a little bit a appreciation and kindness on your bikes, you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes.  I know it can be hard sometimes and sometimes it feels like it’s not worth the trouble. But it is.

And remember, wear sunscreen. (bad joke)

Think twice, be nice. I just made that up.

You can use it.