Thursday, February 19, 2009

Biking Magic 1992.11.20

Magic. This word can help you ride your bike on the street or in the dirt by using five easy tricks.

The first trick is to “Move your eyes.” When riding, don’t stare at one place, even if you should see a unicorn. Instead, look over your shoulder, to your right, to your left, or just in front of yourself.

When you move your eyes, you also must “Always look ahead,” your second trick. Try to see what’s way in front of you as you ride. Watch for a car pulling out of a driveway a block ahead of you, for example. Or if you’re riding on a trail, look for fallen trees, or fallen giants for that matter.

If you always look ahead, you will “Get the whole scene.” This third trick lets you check out what’s going on across the street from where you will be in a minute, or that hot-dogger who doesn’t seem to be paying attention to where he’s going on your side of the trail.

By getting the whole scene, you will be able to use the fourth trick, “Imagine your escape.” Think about where you will go if that hot-dogger wipes out in front of you, and turns into a tree. Where will you go if a car pulls out of a driveway right in your way? Will you be able to stop in time to avoid hitting the rider or the car? Leave a way out for you to go.

When you have imagined your escape, you’re ready to “Connect with ‘em,” your fifth and last magic trick. Wave at drivers who might be about to turn into your path; if possible, make eye contact with them. Wear brightly-colored clothing. Have reflectors on your bike. Make sure other people, and low-flying pegasii, know you’re around so they don’t crash into you.

Move your eyes. Always look ahead. Get the whole scene. Imagine your escape. Connect with ‘em. By using these five tricks, you can enjoy years of riding your bike without crashing. Remembering the tricks is easy. The first letters of the tricks spell magic.

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