I am writing in protest of <a href=

“https://northernstar.info/opinion/columnists/article_02786122-c51a-11df-91d9-0017a4a78c22.html”

target=”_blank”>Taurean Small’s article on helpful suggestions

for bikers.

Though I do agree with Small on the issue of sidewalk biking, going

so far to call all bikers “potential killers” is uncalled for. As

bikers, we should all be riding on the road. However, walkers of

DeKalb need to understand there is a greater risk to us on the road

than bikes are to you on the sidewalk. I understand the fear of

riding on the road, having had a friend bedridden for the last two

months and a girlfriend who received a minor concussion from

incidents with vehicles.

As bikers, we are put into an awkward middle ground. Drivers of

DeKalb do not understand that a bicycle is a vehicle and we are to

share the road. I have personally been yelled at by a passing car

to get on the sidewalk. However, this article is telling us that we

are not welcome there as well.

What is needed between the bikers, walkers and drivers of DeKalb is

respect. Bikers, respect the rights of people using the sidewalk

and be courteous. If you are brave enough to use the road, follow

the same rules as when you drive a car.

Drivers, please respect these bikers that are sharing the road, and

help to prevent future incidents. Walkers, please understand why

some of us choose to share your sidewalk. If you treat us with

respect, the same will be returned.

Matthew Turner

Senior

Industrial Engineering