BajaNomad - Riding a bicycle down Baja

Riding a bicycle down Baja

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BMG - 1-16-2008 at 09:24 AM

A friend of Ana's sister is riding his bicycle from Seattle to Tierra del Fuego, about 12,000 miles. Dave has made it down to San Diego and crossed the border into Baja yesterday, the 15th. He is an interesting writer and you may enjoy following his ride south. You may see him on the highway so at least wave. Ride South

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Bruce R Leech - 1-16-2008 at 09:29 AM

I hope he survives and nobody else dies because of his efforts. I will pray for him to have a safe trip. I wonder if they have driven the rode while others were biking down? I think he must have a death wish.

BMG - 1-16-2008 at 09:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bruce R Leech
I hope he survives and nobody else dies because of his efforts. I will pray for him to have a safe trip. I wonder if they have driven the rode while others were biking down? I think he must have a death wish.

It's not my idea of 'fun' and I think it's very dangerous but according to Dave:

Q: Isn’t that dangerous?

A: Yes, but not as much as you might think. The biggest hazard is traffic. Quite a few people do this trip each year and I have yet to hear of a fatality or life-changing injury. I think it’s much more dangerous to do something you don’t enjoy.

Norm - 1-16-2008 at 09:40 AM

YES BRUCE IS RIGHT ON THE $$$$$$$$ :mad:

HOPE HE WILL MOVE OUT OF THE WAY WHEN THE NEXT SEMI CUMS AROUND THE CORNER!!! HOW MANY HAVE BEEN RAN OVER ???? I HAVE HAD TO PUSH SOME OFF THE ROAD SO AS NOT TO GET HIT BY THE NEXT TRUCK !!!!!

bajadedom - 1-16-2008 at 09:40 AM

A very brave man....

Hook - 1-16-2008 at 09:48 AM

"A: Yes, but not as much as you might think. The biggest hazard is traffic."

No, really?

Is this what a lack of sun for days on end does to a person? I've always heard the suicide rate was higher in the Pacific NW. This is a novel means.

DENNIS - 1-16-2008 at 10:21 AM

He'll be a hood ornament on a Freightliner.

Bajabus - 1-16-2008 at 10:23 AM

Anyone riding a bike down baja has absolutely got to be nuts. It is an incredible risk.

I hope it goes well for him.

Mexitron - 1-16-2008 at 10:23 AM

I think it would be much more interesting, as well as safer, to mountain bike the dirt roads down the peninsula...

DanO - 1-16-2008 at 10:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Mexitron
I think it would be much more interesting, as well as safer, to mountain bike the dirt roads down the peninsula...

Yep, no traffic.

David K - 1-16-2008 at 10:28 AM

Very selfish to scare the Mex. 1 drivers or put them in harm's way to avoid hitting him on a road not designed for bikes (no shoulder, raised roadbed or steep cliff just inches from the pavement).

But that's just my opinion, based on the physical facts of that road. :light:

[Edited on 1-16-2008 by David K]

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bajadock - 1-16-2008 at 10:33 AM

BMG, from this "idiot" and avid biker, if he's going to do it, I'll support him any way I can. Interesting journal, thanks.

Cypress - 1-16-2008 at 10:42 AM

He'll be just another road hazard for drivers to deal with.

vandenberg - 1-16-2008 at 10:54 AM

Definitely a dangerous undertaking

But, on his way to pretty near the south pole, he will encounter worse, most likely.
So, this will be a trial part for him.
Let's hope he'll be around for the rest of his planned journey after he gets through with Baja :no:

I wish him lots of good peddeling and may the Gods be kind and not take other innocents he may encounter on his way. :biggrin:

BMG - 1-16-2008 at 11:05 AM

We haven't met him yet but he will spend a few nights here at the house assuming he makes it this far. I don't want to think what's going to happen when he and 2 vehicles try to share the road all at the same time. I'm sure we'll hear some interesting stories.

capt. mike - 1-16-2008 at 12:13 PM

Darwin award potential :lol:

why not put the bike on the ABC bus south aand enjoy a break? after the ferry to MMZT he can putt all he wants.

we saw some marooons peddling up the grade south towards concepcion from the mesquite punte...loaded to the hilt too with front rear bags.
they were walking the bikes. not much room there.

greasy skid spots waiting to be created. :smug:

Acuity - 1-16-2008 at 12:45 PM

We saw several bikers making their way across the desert when we came down in November. I don't know if the heat addled their brains, or they have a death wish, or simply are stupid. If they wish to put themselves in danger, then I would have no problem (Darwinian selection at its best), but their presence is a danger to all using the road.

Just what do they think would happen when the two semis or rvs have to pass each other where they happen to be riding?

[Edited on 1-16-2008 by Acuity]

Packoderm - 1-16-2008 at 01:05 PM

I would have to actually do the bike ride before I could make any concrete judgments. In a busy city like TJ it would seem that things would happen pretty quickly. But in the back country, I would imagine that the bike rider could hear what's coming up, take a look, and dash out of the way if need be. The bicyclists are not invisible, and the car drivers can slow down a bit and honk to give the riders some time. I talked to some riders on Highway 1, and they said that they didn't find anything scary at all, and that the Mexican drivers seemed to get a kick out of their type of adventure, smile, and offer water and whatnot. I'd have to see the statistics of car drivers harmed by avoiding bike riders before I consider myself as being an authority as to whether riding a bicycle is more dangerous than, say, an automobile driver trying to pass another driver on Highway 1. Trying to pass a slow moving vehicle on Highway 1 might be more selfish than riding a bike - who knows? At least the bicycle tourists don't ride at night with no lights like I've seen the Baja natives do.

Sharksbaja - 1-16-2008 at 01:13 PM

I take it he has no children. If he does he's a freakin' idiot. Otherwise he's just plain stupid.

Packoderm - 1-16-2008 at 01:24 PM

Is panga fishing without a life jacket more dangerous? It's all relative - like flying in a jumbo jet. It may look really scary, but...? Again, I'd have to see some real evidence and statistics of the odds. In the long run, living a life without adventure might be the less desirable option. However, I would imagine that the traffic on Highway 1 would reduce the enjoyment of such a journey. I have biked from Nanning, China to Hanoi, Vietnam, and I wouldn't have missed that for the world, but biking Baja doesn't seem that great.

rhintransit - 1-16-2008 at 01:31 PM

okay, I worry about the bikers. and I'm really concerned when I come across them stopped in the middle of Mex 1 taking pictures, etc. however, as SAG support for my sister/brother-in-law for some of their trips cross/down USA (crazyguyonabike.com)I just support them in what they choose to do which is not necessarily what I would choose to do. their last trip, cross country San Diego to Florida got aborted when they were hit by an RV awning that came loose at just the wrong moment. stuff happens.

I'm in El Juncalito, just south of Loreto, and will be living in Loreto for the next five weeks, so tell him when he comes thru this way and needs someone for local assistance or a place to crash for the night, let me know. will U2U you with email address and local address.

bikers

BajaDanD - 1-16-2008 at 02:46 PM

If they ride down the lane like they are a car instead of next to the shoulder, then cars/ trucks passing them would have to pass just like they were a car. Meaning wait until its safe to pass.
After all a bike is a vehicle and has just as much right to the lane as a car does.
That being said
I still think he's (*&%^%#^%$#) NUTS
Where he's going he'll have much more dangerous roads/ places, then Mex 1
DAND

Cypress - 1-16-2008 at 02:53 PM

A 2MPH bicycle in the middle of a 50MPH highway is an accident in the making for some poor soul. :no:

Bajabus - 1-16-2008 at 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cypress
A 2MPH bicycle in the middle of a 50MPH highway is an accident in the making for some poor soul. :no:

Especially on a blind curve or if he is in a dip and one of those countless crazy passes happens. We have all seen them and the sometimes result.

I suppose it is his right but it is a very dangerous thing. I have mixed opinions on it, one thing to undertake a risky thing for the joy and adventure of it and quite another to put others at increased risk for it.

Then again anyone that undertakes a drive down Baja knows it is somewhat more risky than a casual drive in the states. Bikes are a part of it.

Mango - 1-16-2008 at 08:02 PM

I could think of better places to ride(like the dirt roads as suggested); but, I don't see a problem with it. I've met many bike riders throughout Mexico during my years of travel and never met any of them that regretted it. It's not the most bike friendly country; but, they know that. Nonetheless, bicycling is an accepted form of transport by locals throughout Mexico (most often for shorter distances; but, often on the main highway) in addition to a private car, taxi, bus, horseback, and walking, etc...

If you can't slow down enough to wait for a safe place to pass a bike rider, it is you that is being unsafe, not them. Really, how had is it to sit on your rear and push pedals with you feet and spin a wheel with your hands? It's that hard? Whats the speed limit again? 60 - 80 KPH? (37 - 50MPH) You can't see far enough ahead to slow down?

Is it the cows fault they are in the road when you come around a corner with too much speed? Should all the potholes get out of your way?

What about hitting they guy with the broken down truck stalled in the middle of the road on a blind curve? Is it his fault you hit him? Maybe we could blame it on his engine, the automaker that made his truck, the road paving crew that built the road, the sun... anybody but you. That is much more convenient.

Driving a car is a serous matter. Don't neglect to look in the mirror and take responsibly for your own actions as well. I am sure he knows the risks of riding a bike and has done what he can to minimize them. If he messes up, he crashes and gets road rash. If you mess up you kill someone. He isn't the one that is causing you to drive to fast for the conditions.

So it's not the widest road in the world. So then do we ban semi's and RV's too?

Whether you drive a car or ride a bike in Baja or elsewhere I advise you to learn the risks and how to operate your machine safely. If you hit a pedestrian, bicyclist, car, rock, pothole, or horse because you were going too fast to avoid it or not paying attention - Who's fault is that again?

If you can't take responsibility for what your vehicle runs into you should put it in park permanently and walk away before YOU kill someone. BTW - As a pedestrian you'll need to watch out for the "crazy" insensitive drivers... they just might run you over and blame it on you for being in THEIR way.

I find it funny how everyone here was so overjoyed about the children receiving their bicycles for the toy drive; yet, are unwilling to share the road with anyone on a bike because they are "crazy" and "put others at risk". I just hope those kids never get run over by a reckless driver with flawed logic. Your not the only one with a quest to see what is beyond the horizon.

(Devils Advocate - Over and out)

bajadock - 1-16-2008 at 09:10 PM

Top 10 reasons to never visit Baja:

10. You/your family/friends will die
9. You will be kidnapped for ransom
8. You will be assaulted
7. You will be robbed or extorted
5. You will meet an unscrupulous real estate sales "professional"
4. You will meet an unscrupulous female "professional"
3. You will meet a diseased dollop of mayo on your fish taco and not be able to leave the company of a porcelain convenience for 72 hours
2. You will meet a gringo, who appears friendly, but find out that your political views are different and after 2 minutes of political discussion treat him/her/it worse than mexicans generally treat their dogs
1. You will encounter someone on a bicycle

bajaguy - 1-16-2008 at 09:20 PM

you forgot..............

They ran out of Pacifico

Alan - 1-16-2008 at 09:46 PM

People have the right to put themselves in danger if that's their desire. However they have no right to endanger the lives of others. On the majority of this road there is no room for him to get out of the way of others. If he wants to accomplish a real feat he needs to do it off the pavement. I am astonished at the selfishness of his act. Sorry folks, I'm not impressed.

David K - 1-16-2008 at 10:32 PM

Well, yah... since it's the ONLY highway down the length of the peninsula... :wow:

Riding Okay if it were possible for him to pull over so as to not cause an accident... but much of Mex. 1 there is no way to...

Phil C - 1-16-2008 at 10:41 PM

ALL of the people I've actualy met and talked to who were riding a bike on the highway in Baja had only seen it on a map! What an " ADVENTURE". Most of them were Euros. One couple even had thier dog in a trailer, we met them on the dirt road south of Puertocitos, at least they did some dirt, they were heading to Yucatan. they said the worst they had seen was the Orteaga highway!

bajadock - 1-16-2008 at 10:47 PM

I am an experienced/avid/adventurous bicyclist. I wouldn't do this ride, as there are other rides with more challenge and less danger. But, I support his right to challenge himself and goforit.

What I don't understand is the road rage expressed in this and other threads(June 25 2007). It's not me against you on the road,... is it?

Mango's point about Dia de Reyes bicycles is interesting. What is different about a 6 year old on their first bike in your cul-de-sac v. the guy/gal on Mex1?

Bob H - 1-16-2008 at 11:05 PM

Seems pretty unanamous that this is a crazy thing to do and very dangerous. I tend to agree 100 percent!
Bob H

Mango - 1-16-2008 at 11:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Alan
People have the right to put themselves in danger if that's their desire. However they have no right to endanger the lives of others. On the majority of this road there is no room for him to get out of the way of others. If he wants to accomplish a real feat he needs to do it off the pavement. I am astonished at the selfishness of his act. Sorry folks, I'm not impressed.

Selfish?

Many bike riders I've seen in Mexico are locals that may not own a car. According to the logic of many here they must be selfish also. They should go buy a $40,000 truck so some gringos don't have to be inconvenienced!

Should the slow trucks chugging their way up the grades have to get out of the way too? They take up far more room than a bike and often go as slow. Are they selfish?

For all the people that seem to be confused or panic when they see a bike, slow truck, RV, cow, etc... here is what to do:

If slower traffic, then check to see if it is safe to pass.

-If yes, then pass and continue.
-If no, then slow down and repeat algorithm.

Not so hard. Now is it?

It is fine for people to go faster than others. Just be safe and remain in control if you choose to do so. This often requires waiting until it is safe to pass a truck, car, or bike. In many cases, people pass when it is unsafe; but, this is not the fault of the person being passed - it is the fault of the person who make the bad decision to pass when it was unsafe

Mango - 1-16-2008 at 11:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob H
Seems pretty unanamous that this is a crazy thing to do and very dangerous. I tend to agree 100 percent!
Bob H

I also agree 100%

msawin - 1-16-2008 at 11:40 PM

In my twenty years of driving down #1 and seeing these "brave adventures" on the same strecth as me and wishing them to have as great a trip as mine, I think having read the posts entered before me. It comes down to those 3-10 seconds to make a decision. Where I put my car, with that 18 wheeler coming at me... And what do you do? Un-like my culdisac neighborhood, with junior on the new X-mas bike. All my neighbors are going about 15 miles an hour or slower. Backing out. Looking left or right.... OR No. A "18' ft'er doing 75 an hour right in front of you!! Quick.. left / right ,,,,, break / spead-up...stop...5 seconds and its over...

good luck to all, as I make the trip in 4 weeks myself.

martin-o

capt. mike - 1-17-2008 at 06:29 AM

wanna read the FUNNIEST reasons not to go to baja?
they are at Dale Pearson's site
www.gonetobaja.com :lol:

i say let 'em ride!!! its felony dumb but it should be their informed choice........ :?:

David K - 1-17-2008 at 09:03 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajadock
I am an experienced/avid/adventurous bicyclist. I wouldn't do this ride, as there are other rides with more challenge and less danger. But, I support his right to challenge himself and goforit.

What I don't understand is the road rage expressed in this and other threads(June 25 2007). It's not me against you on the road,... is it?

Mango's point about Dia de Reyes bicycles is interesting. What is different about a 6 year old on their first bike in your cul-de-sac v. the guy/gal on Mex1?

The concern/ outrage, etc. is about riding HIGHWAY ONE, not some residential street in the city.

Those trucks need that highway to transport goods, the people of Baja dependent on tourism need those RVs to use that highway to get south.... BUT, some Euro or Eco nut that thinks it would be fun to ride a bike on the highway that is not designed beyond the needs of trucks, RVs and cars is causing a problem... because a bike is so small, but still requires everyone to move into the opposite lane to get around it. That puts others in danger. The solution would be to use dirt roads instead...

Once again, look at this photo that jrbaja took and tell me where is there room for a cross country bike rider... and that is a straight section? What about the hills out of El Rosario or near Santa Rosalia?

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bajadock - 1-17-2008 at 09:13 AM

I think this is the third bicycle Mex1 thread in my 16 months here. History is repeated in many Nomad posts like this one. I enjoy this disagreement and discussion much more than the Union-Trib, Rocky Mtn News or Orlando
Scenile.

My road bike still hasn't touched Mex dirt/pavement for safety reasons. Safe travels to all.

mtgoat666 - 1-17-2008 at 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Alan
People have the right to put themselves in danger if that's their desire. However they have no right to endanger the lives of others. On the majority of this road there is no room for him to get out of the way of others. If he wants to accomplish a real feat he needs to do it off the pavement. I am astonished at the selfishness of his act. Sorry folks, I'm not impressed.

Seems to me the selfish individual is the one who thinks their auto has more right to the road than another legal vehicle.
Bikes have as much right to use a road as autos do. Autos just need to slow down when they see a slow vehicle and only pass when safe. You should not pass a bicyclist or any slow moving vehicle when another vehicle is heading toward you.
Will it really inconvenience you to slow down and wait to pass the bike when it is safe to do so?
What's your rush?

bajajudy - 1-17-2008 at 09:24 AM

More food for thought from our dear friend, JR

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vandenberg - 1-17-2008 at 09:35 AM

I have to agree with you all who say that the bicycle rider has the same rights to the road as anyone else.
However, if this right is in any way challenged, you'll end up with the biker, even if he's in the right, "deadright". Not much recourse here. :biggrin:

David K - 1-17-2008 at 09:38 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

It's not that he is being selfish in using a public highway... its simply that he is going to hurt someone else who comes upon him on a curve... he is so small and isn't seen until too late, the car swerves to avoid him and gets hit head-on by a vehicle in the other lane or goes over a cliff... How many will die or have their trip ruined because somebody has something to prove by riding a bike on a highway that just doesn't have room...? I mean, can't you see the photos? There is no shoulder on Hwy. 1 between San Quintin and Santa Rosalia. Hopefully, when he hears a car approaching, he will pull off the pavement or hug the cliff.

Blame the Mexican budget cutters who designed the thing to be made as cheaply as possible, back in 1973... and promissed to widden it in the 'near future'.

bancoduo - 1-17-2008 at 01:24 PM

Sharksbaja - 1-17-2008 at 01:44 PM

So what I hear is this: When driving Mex 1 always slow to a safe speed to avoid hazards such as bicycles that may be up ahead.

That's classic. So we are supposed to be ready for a bike in the middle of the road on a blind turn 200 miles from nowhere. I'm trying to be rational understanding but it escapes me.
How in the world can you expect us to slow down to 20 mph or less on EVERY turn. How ludicrous.
Bikes do not belong on that road, period. I certainly wouldn't want to run one over.....no matter who was at fault. It is a judgement call on the bikers behalf not the truck or auto driver.

btw, You should see our narrow crappy roads here with no berm. I see very few cyclists on them.

wilderone - 1-17-2008 at 03:02 PM

"a bike is a vehicle and has just as much right to the lane as a car does"
Since when? Exactly what are the laws regarding bicycle travel on Mexican highways? And assuming arguendo that a "bike" is a vehicle - then is an ice-cream cart a vehicle? A horse-drawn carriage (as I saw en route to Copper Canyon once)? Is a bicycle "street legal" as that criteria applies to motorbikes? Was Mex. 1 built for automobiles? Is Mex. 1 also a bike lane too then? Who has right of way - an auto or a bicycle? Who yields to whom? Obviously there isn't a dedicated bike lane, so the lane must be shared. And the cyclist, going 10 mph is a hazard to an automobile going 50 mph - the same as any other "vehicle" which is going slower than the majority of the traffic. Thus, the cyclist is a hazard. The bicyclist usually has the attitude "they can just watch out for me and go around." Pretty self-centered. Yes, we all know the risks, and a cyclist on the side of the road is one more risk of hazardous conditions to watch for, in addition to the coyotes, cows, goats, autos with flat tires, rocks, fallen objects, etc. The cyclist is a nuisance and a hazard and has no "right" to travel down the middle of Mex. 1 obstructing traffic (as I also experienced a few years ago). Or they ride 2 or 3 abreast chatting, pretty much uncaring as to how much space they take up in the lane. Simply irresponsible given the driving conditions. Another time, I saw a cyclist off the shoulder walking his bike in the dirt, with a crazed look on his face, like he desparately wanted somebody to get him out of his predicament. These people don't have anything better to do with their time?

BajaDanD - 1-17-2008 at 04:13 PM

Pedal power has right of way over motor power pedestrians have right of way over pedal power If a bike is in front of you in the lane you must slow down and go around it when safe the bike has no obligation to move over to let you pass Problem is all you drivers that think he has to move out of your way will run him over because you think he shouldnt be there
DAND

Cypress - 1-17-2008 at 04:22 PM

He can bike down the middle of I-5 if he wants. :biggrin:

He can do anything he wants with his bike. :tumble:

I have a suggestion or two. :biggrin:

DENNIS - 1-17-2008 at 05:00 PM

Suicide is a personal decision.

Mango - 1-17-2008 at 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
So what I hear is this: When driving Mex 1 always slow to a safe speed to avoid hazards such as bicycles that may be up ahead.

That's classic. So we are supposed to be ready for a bike in the middle of the road on a blind turn 200 miles from nowhere. I'm trying to be rational understanding but it escapes me.
How in the world can you expect us to slow down to 20 mph or less on EVERY turn. How ludicrous.
Bikes do not belong on that road, period. I certainly wouldn't want to run one over.....no matter who was at fault. It is a judgment call on the bikers behalf not the truck or auto driver.

btw, You should see our narrow crappy roads here with no berm. I see very few cyclists on them.

Cows don't belong on the road either. But they often are, even 200 miles from "nowhere". If you choose to drive too fast for the conditions, that is a personal decision. Don't blame the cow for putting you in danger.

All being said. I'd never ride a bike on Hwy 1, either. But people (locals included) have every right to do so, and not to be berated because of it.

The speed limit on most of the highway is 60 - 80 KPH. Something like 37 to 50 MPH. If you want to take a blind turn at 90MPH I can't stop you. But, I'm going to find fault your logic if you put much blame on anyone but yourself if you get into a wreck because you were unable to stop or slow in time for a hazard ahead of you.

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
Suicide is a personal decision.

Well said. In car, boat, or bike.

I often drive way over the speed limit and in both lanes in long straight sections when I have good forward visibility. However; when I can't see far ahead as I approach a vado or turn, I slow down and return to my lane. I also slow down for any oncoming traffic. Look miles ahead and count oncoming cars on mountain turns.

I drive safe. I got an A in Driver Ed, and aced my driver tests for autos, CDL, and motorcycles, when I was much younger. It's not rocket science, it's called driving safely, knowing the limits of the machine you are operating, and respecting other peoples right of way.

Last time I drove down and back on Hwy 1 I passed a total of 3 bike riders on the road. I came upon them on a blind turn between LA Bay and Guerrero Negro and I had to slow down (quickly) for all of one or two minutes until I could pass safely. I also passed about 5 cows and a few dogs standing in the road. Big deal! Hwy 1 is a breeze compared to many roads in Mexico. In Mexico you better be ready for the road to end around the next corner; because, sometimes it does.

BTW - BMG's friend has a really cool bike, and it would be great for dirt roads! That's what I would recommend. I wish him luck.

Slow down and enjoy life. Park, then enjoy a cold one.

Also, I hope everyone has fun explaining their logic to cows, rocks, extra wide trucks, and old ladies crossing the road... I'm going to put this thread in park and enjoy a cold one.

Tomorrow I'm going for a bike ride, so watch out world...

:lol:

DianaT - 1-17-2008 at 09:19 PM

Judy,

Thanks for that picture---says it all

Diane

How much money do you have to bet Gibson

Sharksbaja - 1-17-2008 at 10:38 PM

and what the hell does a fat person have to do with not wanting to compete with bikes on a 20ft wide major hiway?

Quote:

What's the bet all the whiners here look like the David K guy in profile.

I understand the rights of ALL travelers. They should ALL think about putting ALL the other vehicles headed north and south at risk for their own pleasure. I don't think the average traveler in Baja puts nearly that much risk on the road as a cyclist does.

Maybe cows are in the road but is it because they don't understand the word "dangerous"? No it's because they are stupid animals.

[Edited on 1-18-2008 by Sharksbaja]

BajaDanD - 1-17-2008 at 11:50 PM

As I said before the bicycle has the right to be there and does not have to move over to the side of the road like some of you seem to think, when ever a car comes up from behind the car has to slow down and wait for a safe oppertunity to pass just like it would for any other slow vehicle on the road . OH HOW INCONVENIENT
And Yeah!!! a bike is a vehicle
From Wikipedia
The bicycle , bike , or cycle , is a pedal-driven , human-powered vehicle

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicycle

In the US there are signs posted saying no bicycles or pedestrians on the freeways like I 5 but most hwys its OK to ride a bike. Its not legal to ride side by side in the same lane with another bike.
Hwy 1 from San Fran to San louis obisbo has some streches that are pretty dangerious for cycliest the difference is if you are run over by a car, help will come a lot quicker
In the middle of nowhere in Baja help may never come
It may be stupid to ride a bicycle down Baja but if you are dumb enough to run one over you are at fault not them.
Get over it.
DAND

Sallysouth - 1-18-2008 at 12:09 AM

And here we go again. Whats up with you gibson? Read and try to understand what the people are trying to say here. No shoulder, blind curves, deep cliff drop-offs. My family has been put in harms way because of bike riders in the past on certain dangerous parts of the Hwy1 and just because of the fact that there was NO shoulder or way to see the upcoming bicyclist.A vehichle moves along with the flow of traffic or at a safe speed,and all of a sudden, in the middle of BFE, along the edge of a cliff, no lights, warning or anything,blind curve, here is a slow moving , going uphill, person on a bike.Now, you are traveling at the speed of say, 35mph, and all of a sudden, you round the curve, a Semi is heading right your way!! Go do the math.remember, NO shoulder.

Sharksbaja - 1-18-2008 at 12:22 AM

I don't think we are arguing over whether or not a cycle has road rights. It's mainly about some foolish person who wants to ride the road regardless of how dangerous it is to himself and others.

Mango - 1-18-2008 at 01:40 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
I don't think we are arguing over whether or not a cycle has road rights. It's mainly about some foolish person who wants to ride the road regardless of how dangerous it is to himself and others.

It is about how people, who are upset that someone else's reality may require them to face the reality of their own recklessness, are unwilling to respect other peoples rights and share the road with bikes.

gibson - 1-18-2008 at 03:49 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Mango
[It is about how people, who are upset that someone else's reality may require them to face the reality of their own recklessness, are unwilling to respect other peoples rights and share the road with bikes.

thanx for being able to articulate this so much better (and less offensively) than moi. :spingrin:

gibson - 1-18-2008 at 04:03 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by jdtrotter
Get a grip!

Diane

P.S. And if you are really in the bicyle industry, why don't you try helping some of the Baja bike teams --- there are some great teams, like our Mountain Bike Team in Bahia Asuncion----great people and dedicated riders.
[Edited on 1-18-2008 by jdtrotter]

******************************
*****************

thanx for the offer ... of all the international assistance we supplied for teams worldwide, probably had the most fun with the mexican kids and our distributor outta Hermosilla (sp). fun days!!

[Edited on 1-18-2008 by BajaNomad]

Mexitron - 1-18-2008 at 09:25 AM

I still fantasize, if the government ever improves the main highway, they should put in a separate bike path paralleling the highway--call it the bicycletta nautica :lol:

Might draw a lot of bicyclists in to "do the peninsula" and they'd have to buy supplies the whole way. Would really be a cool way to experience Baja.

DianaT - 1-18-2008 at 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Mexitron
I still fantasize, if the government ever improves the main highway, they should put in a separate bike path paralleling the highway--call it the bicycletta nautica :lol:

Might draw a lot of bicyclists in to "do the peninsula" and they'd have to buy supplies the whole way. Would really be a cool way to experience Baja.

That is a great idea. :yes:

However, how long do you think that bike path would remain a bike path and not be turned into an alternative road, or a place to pass another vehicle if it was next to the highway?

Diane

vandenberg - 1-18-2008 at 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by jdtrotter

Quote:

Might draw a lot of bicyclists in to "do the peninsula" and they'd have to buy supplies the whole way. Would really be a cool way to experience Baja.

That is a great idea. :yes:

However, how long do you think that bike path would remain a bike path and not be turned into an alternative road, or a place to pass another vehicle if it was next to the highway?

Diane

Diane,
The Mexicans will solve that problem with some stratigically placed "TOPES" of some "EXTRA" height. :biggrin:

rts551 - 1-18-2008 at 10:11 AM

come on guys lets all just travel the speed of Bicycles.... so we can be safe... including the cows.

Does this mean I am going to gain weight?

rts551 - 1-18-2008 at 11:00 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by soulpatch
I have to just laugh while reading this. On one hand I read posts about heading to baja to slow down and relax and then I am reading this post about, god forbid, paving roads and ruining the "idyllic" life. Too funny.
Please, can't we all just try to be exactly the same? Sheesh, then everything would be so much better.

Patch - wrong post. This one is about two wheel travelers

mtgoat666 - 1-18-2008 at 04:13 PM

seems to be that the consensus of most nomads is that they have some civil right to speed faster than safe for road conditions, and that any bicyclist, cow, coyote, turtle, fallen stone or tumbling tumbleweed that dares to get in their way as they hurl around blind corners is at fault for any damage that occurs to their monster SUV, pickup-towing-boat, RV, or humble ego.

DENNIS - 1-18-2008 at 04:31 PM

Jeezo....Hasn't this guy been turned to Chiligrind yet? He'd better get on the road soon to realize his successes and mistakes.

I wish him the best ride of his life.........Go for it.

gibson - 1-18-2008 at 04:43 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sallysouth
My family has been put in harms way because of bike riders in the past on certain dangerous parts of the Hwy1 Go do the math.

your family's in harms way in 'certain dangerous parts' because you're driving like an ass! your OWN family!! how does that feel? & congrats.
do.the.math.
"inconceivable" (the princess bride)

gibson - 1-18-2008 at 04:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rts551
come on guys lets all just travel the speed of Bicycles.... so we can be safe... including the cows.

close to 100percent of the Hwy is wide open visually unimpaired! do.the.math.

wheredothesepeepscomefrom??

Alan - 1-18-2008 at 05:21 PM

I love all the posts proclaiming his right to ride. You are absolutley correct. I never questioned his legal right to be there, just as everyone of us has the legal responsibility to do everything in our power to prevent from injuring him and all others on the road.

As I tried to express in my previous post I fully support his right to personal challenge. Just as I am opposed to all laws and regulations that do nothing more than attempt to protect us from ourselves.

However, legal rights aside, I feel we each have a moral responsibility to not endanger others by our actions. It makes no difference whether you are driving at 100 mph, or riding a bicycle on Mex 1. Yes both examples are exhilarating and personally challenging. My concern is when people perform these stunts with no regard to the safety of others.

He obviously has decided he can still live with himself if a family that swerved to miss him met a semi-head-on. Obviously the driver of that family was "legally" wrong because he was unable to stop within the distance he could see, yet knowing my actions may have contributed to their deaths is not something I could live with. That is not something I could do and people that can accept that do not impress me.

BajaDanD - 1-18-2008 at 05:24 PM

Bottom line if you hit the biker or crash because you tried to go around him and hit another car its your fault for not waiting to pass when safe and if you come around a curve and hit a biker or another car while trying to go around the biker its still your fault for driving too fast for the conditions of the road and when to Mex cop shows up thats exactly how he will call it while he is arresting you for the accident
unless the biker is doing something ilegal or pulls out in front of you its your fault
If he is already in the lane when you come up on him its his lane same as if he was a car going slow
If it was a car/motorcycle/ tractor going slow and you hit him Your fault

I still think its a bad idea to bike Mex1 mainly because of all you boneheads that think you own the road and that a bike needs to move out of your way, or if you come around a blind curve and there is a bike in the road in front of you that they dont have a right to be there.

Alan - 1-18-2008 at 05:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by gibson

close to 100percent of the Hwy is wide open visually unimpaired! do.the.math.

wheredothesepeepscomefrom??

Have you evr driven this road? I can think of numerous blind curves.

bajalid - 1-18-2008 at 06:03 PM

God bless him! I rode mt bike from san felipe to purtocitios and my road bike from TJ to Ensenada.In the years driving to cabo I have seen and talk to the riders and they had great stories I wish I was riding with this guy!
But I would use my mt.bike for this trip(more gears for up hill) :lol:

BajaDanD - 1-18-2008 at 06:03 PM

Ive driven it hundreds of times and yes there are blind curves but if i came around one and hit a biker or crashed because I had to go around one and hit another car it would be my fault even if it was a stupid idea for the biker to be riding Mex. 1
I dont even ride a bike but I know unless there are signs posted or laws saying they cant ride a bike down Mex 1, That if you come upon one in the lane in front of you they have the right to be there and treated just like they were a car in the lane. They even have the right to ride down the center of the lane like a car and sometimes thats safer because cars behind will have to slow and wait to pass instead of trying to squeeze by
DAND

vandenberg - 1-18-2008 at 06:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666
seems to be that the consensus of most nomads is that they have some civil right to speed faster than safe for road conditions, and that any bicyclist, cow, coyote, turtle, fallen stone or tumbling tumbleweed that dares to get in their way as they hurl around blind corners is at fault for any damage that occurs to their monster SUV, pickup-towing-boat, RV, or humble ego.

Man, I drive a Toyota Corolla and my ego is far from humble. :biggrin:

Mexitron - 1-18-2008 at 06:16 PM

I'm trying to think how many cyclists I've seen over the years on Mex 1...probably 10 or 20 total--not many...so the chances of a bad situation are slim. I would say I've been far outconvenienced by RVs going slow, or worse--those hideous RV caravans which are like trying to pass a train! That said, I still wouldn't want to personally ride the highway--my fear of being hit would ruin the enjoyment of it...

rts551 - 1-18-2008 at 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by gibson

Quote:

Originally posted by rts551
come on guys lets all just travel the speed of Bicycles.... so we can be safe... including the cows.

close to 100percent of the Hwy is wide open visually unimpaired! do.the.math.

wheredothesepeepscomefrom??

Was tongue in cheek-- but...100% I know where you come from!

wiltonh - 1-18-2008 at 06:33 PM

I just got back from Lapaz and we saw a at least 5 or 6 cyclists in the month we were down there.

I count dead horses, cows and dogs on every trip. My attempt was to determine which ones were smarter. My counting has lead me to believe that goats were the smartest of all, because you never see them dead along the road.

So far I have not had to count dead cyclists and I sure hope it does not start. We came up a hill and there was a cyclists in the road just over the top. No one was coming, so I was able to go around but if that had not been the case, it would have been hard to stop.

[Edited on 1-19-2008 by wiltonh]

Alan - 1-18-2008 at 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaDanD
Ive driven it hundreds of times and yes there are blind curves but if i came around one and hit a biker or crashed because I had to go around one and hit another car it would be my fault even if it was a stupid idea for the biker to be riding Mex. 1
I dont even ride a bike but I know unless there are signs posted or laws saying they cant ride a bike down Mex 1, That if you come upon one in the lane in front of you they have the right to be there and treated just like they were a car in the lane. They even have the right to ride down the center of the lane like a car and sometimes thats safer because cars behind will have to slow and wait to pass instead of trying to squeeze by
DAND

No arguments from me regarding legal determination of fault. My point was moral responsibility. If my car was disabled on a blind curve I have a moral responsibility to try to warn of a hazard ahead. If I don't do a thing to warn anyone and a family plows into my disabled car do I merely say "Stupid people were driving too fast"? They may have been legally wrong but I would have been morally wrong.

Sharksbaja - 1-18-2008 at 07:43 PM

It's very obvious to anyone who rides bikes on the road ANYWHERE, that cars treat bikers like squat.
A problem is you think all of the non-bike riders are
p-nche for some reason or another. That's just not right. My point was and is much the same as your own... that the road is dangerous, and more so with bikes on it. Period.
Unlike the hiways in the US the Mex roads are barely wide enough for two large vehicles passing one another. There are stretches of road that go for miles with no shoulder whatsoever. Not to mention a dozen other hazards.
Where do you get the idea that we/I don't yield? I always yield for bikes.
The road is dangerous for bicycles regardless of how we all here drive. I sense the notion that some of you think that if an accident occurs with a bike then it has to be the "big" vehicles fault. I can't find reason to believe that it always is the drivers fault. Bikes can easily fall into your "blind spot" due to the nature of physics. That people aren't prepared for bikes in compromising positions means that inevitably the two will meet at inopportunistic times. ie, in traffic, around curves, behind trees etc. It's harder to see a cyclist than a 4 wheeled vehicle. That includes motos as well. You hear many times about fatal accidents whereas the guy was "never seen".
I would love to think that everyone who plies that road had perfect vision, was not road weary, had excellent reactions and were courteous and astute drivers. Let's face it there are REALLY LAME drivers on that and every other road. They present a problem for us all no matter WHAT they drive.

It is an idiot that runs into a bike
End of pant.....

P.S. I pray that guy has good fortune.

Al G - 1-18-2008 at 09:16 PM

I too wish him good luck...more for the other people sake...because he knows it is a dumb A$$ thing to do...remember this:

A senior citizen said to his eighty-year old buddy: "So I hear you're getting married?" "Yep!" "Do I know her?" "Nope!" "This woman, is she good looking?" "Not really." "Is she a good cook?" "Naw, she can't cook too well." "Does she have lots of money?" "Nope! Poor as a church mouse." "Well, then, is she good in bed?" "I don't know." "Why in the world do you want to marry her then?" "Because she can still drive!"

:lol:

Can you see something wrong with your theory??? of course not...if you were that smart you would not be riding Mex 1.. :biggrin:

Packoderm - 1-18-2008 at 09:19 PM

I can agree that RV caravans are more selfish and dangerous than one or two people riding bicycles.

Al G - 1-18-2008 at 09:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Packoderm
I can agree that RV caravans are more selfish and dangerous than one or two people riding bicycles.

Tell me who is the dumbest...

gibson - 1-18-2008 at 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Alan

Have you evr driven this road? I can think of numerous blind curves.

too many times but admittidely (sp) I'm taking the full length into account as that's what I drive. I see your point.
But even on a long flat wide-open stretch of road it may be necessary to slowWAY down to accomodate all utilising the hwy. I just have ZERO problem with that and actually find myself cheering for the peddlers!! (the furtherist thing from these whiners' minds). different strokes I guess.

Interestingly and very tellingly (i'm on a 'ly' trip), while locals (and that's all that matters to me in the end) may consider the cyclists loco .... they won't ***** about it or exhibit road rage. period.
done

[Edited on 1-19-2008 by Hose A]

ridesouth - 1-24-2008 at 05:33 PM

Hello-

My name is Dave Liddell and I am the cyclist you have been conversing about. I had such a great time reading this thread, I laughed so hard reading everyone´s opinion of my trip and their assumptions about my riding style, my sanity, and my intelligence. Very amusing.

I thought I should give a little back and give you a glimpse of the view from the saddle. The roads are indeed treacherous but comparable to sections of Hwy 1 in the US. Near TJ there was quite a bit of traffic but the shoulder was also wider. Riding south of Rosarito the shoulder quickly dissapeared but so did much of the traffic. In the US I had jerks on the road mess with me daily. Down here I´ve had almost none. In general I find that the drivers here are much more courteous than the US. They may drive faster but that doesn´t nessecarily mean they aren´t safer. The truck drivers are very percise. They will not pass unless there is room to do so. I cringe every time I hear one of them slow behind me to wait to pass. I hate to be the inconvenient gringo and try not to let that happen. There is almost no situation where I can´t pull off to the side of the road even at the expense of a few layers of skin. Skin grows back and pain is fleeting, death is something entirely different.

Almost every single blind corner has a shoulder made of concrete to allow drainage. This is due to the fact that most of the serpentine sections are in mountains and they need this drainage to maintain the roads. I never ride with headphones. If I hear a vehicle behind me and a blind corner or hill is approaching I have a choice: either hurry around it and put some distance between me and it, or wait for the vehicle to pass. 90% of the time I take the latter unless the vehicle is a great distance off.

If I see vehicles approaching and hear vehicles behind me I gauge the size of the shoulder and decide whether or not to pull off. The key to riding these types of roads is to keep alert, decide what you are going as early as possible, and take your time to enjoy the view when it´s safe. This is not a fast mode of travel. The most milage I´ve done in a day is only 65 miles. If I was in a hurry I´d be on a plane instead.

Sure this is dangerous, but it´s also intensely rewarding. Death is NOT part of the program. I am doing this to live, to really live. I mitigate my risk to a personally acceptable level. Danger, stupidity, sanity, are largely subjective.

The people here are extremely kind and helpful, the sunsets and vistas are mind blowing, the cactus is like nothing I´ve ever seen, and the food is very very good in a very straightforward way. I feel more alive than I ever did sitting at a desk trying to save the world one dot com at a time. Mexico is a beautiful place on a bike, on a human level. You should try it sometime.

-Dave

gibson - 1-24-2008 at 06:31 PM

all the best and keep rubber side down and beans intake up

vandenberg - 1-24-2008 at 06:32 PM

Good post Dave.
Interesting to hear the other side.
Welcome to the board and hope to get some sort of travel log of your experiences.

rhintransit - 1-24-2008 at 07:24 PM

good for you Dave. have you passed Loreto yet? or El Juncalito? I passed one cyclist making the climb up to our look out, stopped to wait for him, give him an atta boy, etc, but he road on past my car parked at the top, didn't even stop to rest. boy, some legs and lungs.
feel free to u2u if I can give you local advice or assistance.

bajadock - 1-24-2008 at 07:34 PM

BRAVO!

Mango - 1-24-2008 at 08:43 PM

Dave,

Welcome to Baja Nomad and thanks for sharing. It's good to hear about other peoples adventures and realities. I am glad you have had a great ride so far. I hope it continues to get better as the world rolls by.

As you found out Baja is a special place. I think you will find that Mexico is pretty diverse as you head south on the mainland. Enjoy. It's a beautiful country full of great people.

Take care and keep us updated.

Bajabus - 1-24-2008 at 09:32 PM

Kudos to you my friend and best of luck. One mans ceiling is anothers floor.

Sharksbaja - 1-24-2008 at 09:43 PM

First off, good on you for the reply. It is comforting to know you are keyed into the dangers and hazards of that and other roads. It's also nice to hear you having no problems and are enjoying Baja. It's good you acknowledge the risk.
With that said amigo, you've convinced me that you are a prudent rider. It isn't your cautious nature of biking that worries me..... it's the driver who because of their lack of skills, eyesight or whatever that pose the biggest threat. Some drivers are just plain dangerous any time on any road. The fact that few brave souls ply the road means that they are not a common engagement.
Good luck and keep enjoying Baja. Remember if none of us here cared for life and yours in particular than perhaps this thread wouldn't have existed.

bajalid - 1-25-2008 at 03:50 PM

dave,love your thread.Wish I was riding down baja! and you are so right about the people in baja! keep pedeling will be looking for your next msg.
and people give him a break! :rolleyes:

bajadedom - 1-25-2008 at 11:50 PM

Wonderful to read a polite reply to some of the stuff that gets thrown at people making a simple post here-You are a brave man and may God bless your journey.

[Edited on 1-26-2008 by bajadedom]

gibson - 1-26-2008 at 03:01 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajadedom
and may God bless your journey.

[Edited on 1-26-2008 by bajadedom]

oh please!!!

tajo - 1-26-2008 at 10:31 AM

Roads in Baja are not only for car drivers - also for pedestrians, cyclists and cows - we should remember about it. Some nomads think that Mexicans consider cyclist to be "loco" - maybe - but it is rather an opinion of Sunday drivers, and more likely US-American than Mexican ones. I know that road cycling is very popular in Baja - and if you have questions about it, you may contact with the Club Ciclopista Tijuana, which very often announces road bike rides in the yahoo newsgroup Bajacamping.

I did not biked in Baja much , only once from San Telmo to San Pedro Martir, and another time on the road nr 3 near Ojos Negros - up to Laguna Hanson and Rumorosa - but I agree that the truck drivers are very kind in Mexico. Somebody advised to use dirty roads - but really you should have special tyres, because of jumping cholla and other cactus thorns - I repaired my flat tires three times between Laguna Hanson and Rumorosa. And you need plenty of water, because there is a small chance to find it on a dirty road.

Sallysouth - 1-26-2008 at 11:32 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by gibson

Quote:

Originally posted by Sallysouth
My family has been put in harms way because of bike riders in the past on certain dangerous parts of the Hwy1 Go do the math.

your family's in harms way in 'certain dangerous parts' because you're driving like an burro! your OWN family!! how does that feel? & congrats.
do.the.math.
"inconceivable" (the princess bride)

gibson, you needn't go name calling here.I was not even in the vehicle,and how do you know the person was driving like a "burro"? You have a problem , dude.See I didn't even call you a nasty name and got MY point across.Congrats on what? Take a pill or have a cerveza.

Mexitron - 1-26-2008 at 11:36 AM

tajo--yes, that's the tricky part of riding on the dirt roads--you have to very careful about finding water...the good news is that there are lots of tinajas and springs throughout the peninsula--finding out about them ahead of the ride is the challenge.

David K - 1-26-2008 at 03:38 PM

"Roads in Baja are not just for cars", yup... I can agree that is true from what I have seen on them... BUT, the fact is they were NOT designed for bike riders to use along with traffic. In other words, there is NO shoulder where a biker can pedal without being in a traffic lane, like most highways in the U.S.

I do respect Dave for posting here and being intelligent enough to know how to share the road with cars that may not be able to safely get around him or thinking that he has some 'special privilages' on a Mexican highway.

I hope your trip is a safe and rewarding one Dave... Thanks again for posting your reaction to our concerns for the safety of you on vacation and others who must use that narrow road in autos or trucks.

gibson - 1-26-2008 at 05:16 PM

nice 'backpeddling' guys & gals!
hilarious

Sallysouth - 1-26-2008 at 09:59 PM

Well said DK.I too , hope for Dave's journey to be an experience of a lifetime.His post said quite a bit about his knowledge and his being aware of the dangers that could be around each and every corner.I still think it is a death wish, but that is MY opinion.Hopefully we will get a trip report from him! :wow:

Sallysouth - 1-26-2008 at 10:03 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by gibson

Quote:

Originally posted by bajadedom
and may God bless your journey.

[Edited on 1-26-2008 by bajadedom]

oh please!!!

you have a problem with someone wishing your friend well in the name of God? Thats just downright mean. :fire:

bajadedom - 1-26-2008 at 10:14 PM

Gibson must be in politics....probably anti- Pledge of Allegiance too.... Hope he doesn't drive south while Dave's on the road...

Thanks for the support Nomads-God Bless all of you!

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