[sjclaeys]

So it sounds like in Virginia we are getting two steps back and no steps forward on cycling-related bills.

[sjclaeys]

Just so I understand. The bill against following too closely is now dead, but the bill requiring “full stops” is on its way to passing?

[sjclaeys]

Yes, it was a great time, though I missed Baiskeli telling his amusing story related to IPAs. Thanks to Consularrider and DismalScientist for leading me there and back from Arlington.

[sjclaeys]

Not to get too off topic on a bike forum, but Stone’s Enjoy By 2-15-13 is an outstanding double IPA. Good after a ride home in the snow.

[sjclaeys]

I rode home via 14th St bridge, MVT, 4MR and W&OD to near East Falls Church. Took it easy and overall not too bad. Only some problems with ice on the W&OD toward the end of the ride.

[sjclaeys]

I hope to join. Is the meeting spot at the top of the trail at Ohio or down at the access to the W&OD?

[sjclaeys]

The Weather Channel has deemed to name the winter storm coming through today Khan. All cyclists must do their best William Shatner impersonations while out and about.

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[sjclaeys]

So what is the general consensus for the Custis tomorrow morning?

[sjclaeys]

Regarding SB959/HB2217 (the trail stop sign bill), I realize that I am playing arm-chair quarterback, but it seems that the best way to manage it is to either: 1) get it sent back for reconsideration after a study is done on how to make crossings more safe; or 2) add on additional amendments to either improve the bill or mitigate its abuse, such as establishing a 15 or 20 mph maximum speed for motor vehicles at crossings, requiring motor vehicles to yield when pedestrians/users are at a crossing (not just in a crossing), requiring local law enforcement to provide public reporting on actions taken against trail users and motor vehicles at crossings.

[sjclaeys]

I have concerns about both how the bill is drafted (what is meant by “complete stop”) and the likelihood that it will be enforced in an abusive manner. However, I am also concerned that opposition from the cycling community will be viewed as hypocritical in light of us pushing for the bills against dooring and following too closely. I know that there are significant differences in the merits and implications between the W&OD stop sign bill and the dooring and following too closely bills, but your average legislator will see some balance in passing all three because they will think that they are creating both rights and responsibilities for cyclists. Overcoming this view will be challenging.

[sjclaeys]

The Weather Channel has named this “storm” Iago, either after the main character in Shakespeare’s Othello or the parrot in Disney’s Alladin.

[sjclaeys]

It is not a real storm until the Weather Channel gives it a name. They are up to Helen, so I am rooting for Ignatius.

[sjclaeys]

I worked in that building several years ago. With a Department of Commerce ID, I could park my bike at a rack in the courtyard nearest to Pennsylvania Avenue. It is outside, but covered and theoretically within the security perimeter. There are showers in the Department of Commerce gym. There are also other showers somewhere in the building but I am not sure how well they are kept clean or if they are still open with the current renovation of the building.

[sjclaeys]

Last a rider with a bright flashing front light passed me on the MVT. I nicely said, “Please don’t use flashers on the trail.” He slowed down, asked why and switch to a steady mode after I explained why. Very psyched.

[sjclaeys]

I was surprised by the number of bicycle commuters out on a cold morning. Maybe they were all Freezing Saddles competitors. Also, if you take your commuter bike to the shop for a tune up over the holidays, check the seat height before getting on. Finding out that it was raised too high is not a good way to start a morning ride.

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