Who would think that delivering documents on a bike would spawn a phenomenon as the bike messenger? One part world class athlete, one part fearless masochist, the messenger cult is one of pride and poetry where stripes are earned with scrapes and bail-outs. If you live in an area where messengers are utilized, you probably have a pre-conceived idea of how you feel about these people. If you do, better yet if you don't, take a few minutes and allow yourself to be moved.
Do me a favor, take 7 minutes out of your day and watch this video. The motion is amazing, it's a nice tour of the city, and the music will offer a few moments of zen.
I'm sorry, but these guys are crazy and as dangerous to others as they are to themselves. A car reacting out of panic could kill several, and the possibility of death to the rider. I hope people do not think it's cool.
Bill Hertzenberg, Trek 7.5 owner.
Posted by: Bill Hertzenberg | February 05, 2008 at 02:17 PM
Hey Bill, Your point is very well taken. I submit it to highlight one aspect of bike culture. Ride safe everybody and thanks for reading!
Hootie
Posted by: Hootie, The Bike Lane Blogster | February 05, 2008 at 10:35 PM
Cool video, but I've never seen such irresponsible riding in my life. Keep it up, and they'll end up splattered across some intersection, tying up traffic worse than it already is, and doubling the insurance rates of some guy just trying to get to work.
Posted by: superconductor | February 10, 2008 at 02:05 PM
1st: These Messengers are PROFESSIONALS! Crazy? Maybe but they are successful in their work and live to ride another day.
2nd: I ride and work in NYC and riding thru GRIDLOCK traffic should motivate us all to ride more for a healthier SELF and PLANET.
3rd: Accidents happen more often in automobiles than bicycles but they are all that, ACCIDENTS (never intentional). But even a parked automobile is way more dangerous with absent minded drivers and passengers suddenly kicking open doors into a cyclist but we all should be accountable for our actions. Even if you have the right of way, you should still be cautious and look before crossing any intersection because you never know what lunatic (jay walker, auto or bike) will run a light or stop sign and t-bone you.
4th: I personally think they are cool but wish that enforcement were a lot tougher on ALL OF US because you all complain about the insurance premium but still insist on your little bubble of selfish comfort and drive with your cell phones/crackberry/ipods, while reading, blaring music, eating, while under the influence of legal &/or illegal drugs, etc....The cyclist riding at a fraction of your speed should have the preferential treatment since its the better way to go for everyone.
OB ~ Trek 4300
Posted by: OB | February 17, 2008 at 11:28 PM