While the Austin City Council’s street committee is looking at ways to make Austin safer for those who pedal for fun and for work, there are ways bicyclists can decrease their risks.

Saturday, July 31, 1999

While the Austin City Council’s street committee is looking at ways to make Austin safer for those who pedal for fun and for work, there are ways bicyclists can decrease their risks.

Rydjor Bike store owner Dan Ulwelling put helmets at the top of his safety list.

"They’re a lot more user-friendly than they were years ago," Ulwelling said. "They’re also not so uncommon now."

Ulwelling said helmets range in price from $35-$100 in his store and $15-$30 in department stores.

That’s a wide range in prices, but, as Ulwelling said, "you get what you pay for."

"There are a couple companies that do independent testing of helmets – not all the helmets on the market meet their requirements," he said. "Prices also differ because of differences in weight and breathability."

Ulwelling also rated reflectors and lights on bikes as a top priority as well as making sure the bike fits the rider properly. Having a bike that works well is also necessary: if a person’s brakes need tightening, odds of running into something unexpected increase dramatically.

Finally, Ulwelling pointed out that bicyclists are responsible for knowing the traffic laws and obeying them.

Rydjor employee and Southern Minnesota Bike Club member Dale Vandenover seconded his opinion.

"Bikers need to remember that they have to obey the same rules as cars," Vandenover said. "I find most motorists here very polite."

Still, accidents happen.

The accidents this summer, and the daily experiences that come with being a "utilitarian" bicyclist, prompted resident Knowles Dougherty to go to the council two weeks ago.

"I’m not a recreational cyclist," Dougherty told council members. The long-time Austin resident is a familiar sight on streets and avenues in his white bike helmet.

"I bike to get places," he said. "I think there’s a real problem in Austin. Getting to the mall you take your life in your hands … I know parents who won’t let their kids bike because it’s not safe."

Council street committee chair Mickey Jorgenson promptly put the issue on her committee’s agenda, and is planning a meeting with community members soon. Originally, the meeting was set for Aug. 3, but Jorgenson said she’s rescheduling due to the absence of committee member Gloria Nordin. Dougherty, Vandenover and Ulwelling are also planning to participate in the meeting.

"We definitely need to look at 18th Avenue and the surrounding area," Jorgenson said. "We should address bike needs as part of the long-term plan for that area."

The street committee will also consider Dougherty’s proposals for bike lanes on residential streets and arteries, and other bike-related safety issues.