Category: BLOG

As more people take up cycling, it’s become increasingly important to prioritize safety while on the road. One way cyclists can protect themselves in case of a crash is by using a camera to record their ride. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at cameras used by bicyclists for protection and evaluate their features and effectiveness.

1. Cycliq Fly6 CE ($179.99) The Cycliq Fly6 CE is a rear-facing camera with a tail light designed specifically for cycling. It features a 1080p HD camera with a 135-degree field of view and a 100-lumen rear light. The camera can record up to 7 hours of footage and has built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing. One of the standout features of the Fly6 CE is its Incident Protection technology, which automatically saves footage in the event of a crash.
2. Cycliq Fly12 CE ($279.99) The Cycliq Fly12 CE is a front-facing camera designed specifically for cycling. It features a 1080p HD camera with a 135-degree field of view and a 600-lumen front light. The camera can record up to 10 hours of footage and has built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing. One of the standout features of the Fly12 CE is its Incident Protection technology, which automatically saves footage in the event of a crash.
3. Sony RX0 II ($698.00) The Sony RX0 II is a small and lightweight camera that can be mounted to a bicycle. It offers high-quality video and photo capture, with 4K resolution video and 15.3-megapixel photos. It also has a waterproof and shockproof design, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. The camera also has a built-in image stabilization feature, which helps to keep footage steady even on bumpy terrain. However, the RX0 II can be quite expensive, and the battery life is relatively short.
4. GoPro HERO 9 Black ($449.99) The GoPro HERO 9 Black is a popular camera used by many bicyclists. It offers high-quality video and photo capture, with 5K resolution video and 20-megapixel photos. It also has a waterproof design, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. One of the standout features of the HERO 9 Black is its HyperSmooth 3.0 technology, which provides incredibly stable video footage even on bumpy terrain. The camera also has built-in GPS, which allows riders to track their speed and location. However, the HERO 9 Black can be quite expensive, and the battery life is relatively short.
5. Garmin VIRB 360 ($799.99) The Garmin VIRB 360 is a high-end camera that offers 360-degree video and photo capture. It features 5.7K resolution video and 15-megapixel photos, as well as built-in GPS and Wi-Fi. The VIRB 360 is also waterproof and has a rugged design, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. The camera also has built-in sensors that can track speed, elevation, and G-force. However, the VIRB 360 is quite expensive, and the battery life is relatively short.

Overall, there are many different cameras available for bicyclists that can be used for protection in case of a crash. The best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

“Streets are not just for motor vehicles. They are transportation pathways used for many types of vehicles, motorized or otherwise. We exist to make these streets safe for all users including bicycles, pedestrians, and motor vehicles.”

On this episode of “Simplifying Life Through Technology,” Mark and Michelle from SoundVision sit down with President Kevin Elder and Member at Large John Finney from Street Access for Everyone (SAFE).

Listen to the podcast here:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2014609/12052273

In honor of local cyclist Earl Gillon:

Learn how Kevin and John’s passion for cycling transitioned to promoting change for road safety. Kevin and John discuss the goals and impacts of SAFE and what initiatives they are taking to provide change.

“We are your Lake Norman area advocacy group for safer streets. Streets are not only for motorized vehicles. They are transportation pathways used by cars, motorcycles, trucks, cyclists, and pedestrians. We exist to make these streets safer for all users.

Street Access for Everyone, Lake Norman (SAFE) is a 501(c)(3) born out of a need to increase the safety of cyclists and pedestrians on our local roadways. This occurred following a spate of accidents involving local cyclists, including the death of a local cyclist, and several local pedestrians.”

SAFE’s Mission:

• “To encourage and drive advocacy for the safety of all road users.”
• “To effectively collaborate with town councils and law enforcement in the Lake Norman area.”
• “To drive positive change and improvements for our current and future road users.”

SAFE Activities and Outreach:

• “Attend Town Council Meetings.”
• “Collaborate with Law Enforcement.”
• “Collaborate with local driving school(s).”
• “Work with local town advisory boards (e.g., Cornelius Transportation Advisory Board).”
• “Clear road signs to increase visibility.”
• “Replace all “Share the Road” signs with ‘Bikes May Use Full Lane (BMUFL)’ signs.”
• “Educate all road users regarding current NCDOT laws.”
• “Collaborate with local towns regarding pedestrian and cycling safety issues.”

To learn more about SAFE:

• Visit our website:
• https://safelkn.com/
• Check out our Facebook page:
• https://www.facebook.com/safelkn/
• Read More About SAFE’s Outreach:
• https://safelkn.com/about-us/in-the-press/

Who are Kevin and John?

Kevin Elder has an extensive background in Engineering. Kevin has been a designer for Ingersoll Rand for almost 15 years. Currently, he designs industrial air compressors for Ingersoll Rand.

John Finney has been an IT Pro for over 20 years. Currently, John works privately in Cyber Security.

More about the accident that took the life of local cyclist Earl Gillon.

https://newsofdavidson.org/2020/01/13/22105/pillar-of-local-cycling-community-killed-when-struck-by-car-on-hwy-115/

Check out SoundVision’s Podcast with Kevin Elder and John Finney, as well as our other podcasts, on Apple and Spotify.

Are you tired of riding alone on your indoor trainer? Do you want to spice up your workouts and make them more enjoyable? If yes, then Zwift is the perfect platform for you.

Zwift is a virtual cycling platform that allows you to ride in a virtual world, complete with stunning landscapes and challenging routes. You can ride solo, join group rides or races, and connect with other cyclists from all over the world.

How it works: To get started with Zwift, you need a few things: a bike, an indoor trainer, a computer or mobile device, and an internet connection. You will also need to create a Zwift account and download the app.

Once you have everything set up, you can start riding. Zwift uses a combination of sensors, such as speed sensors and power meters, to track your speed, power, and cadence. This information is then used to control your avatar in the virtual world.

You can choose from a variety of routes, ranging from flat roads to steep climbs. The virtual world is filled with other riders, and you can see them as you ride. You can chat with them, give them a thumbs up, or even draft behind them to conserve energy.

Features Zwift offers – Several features that make it the ultimate virtual cycling platform:

1. Group rides and races: You can join organized rides or races, which take place at scheduled times. This is a great way to challenge yourself and push your limits.
2. Training plans: Zwift offers a variety of training plans for all levels of riders. These plans are designed by professional coaches and tailored to your specific fitness level and goals.
3. Virtual power-ups: You can earn virtual power-ups, such as a speed boost or a draft boost, by riding through specific areas on the course. These power-ups can give you an edge in races or help you climb hills faster.
4. Social features: You can connect with other riders from all over the world, chat with them, and join virtual clubs. You can also see how you stack up against other riders on the leaderboards.

Benefits Zwift offers – several benefits for indoor cycling:

1. Fun and engaging: Zwift makes indoor cycling more fun and engaging by adding a virtual world and other riders to the mix.
2. Motivating: Zwift can be a great source of motivation, as you can set goals, track your progress, and compete with other riders.
3. Efficient: Zwift allows you to get a great workout in a short amount of time. You can choose from a variety of routes and workouts, so you can get a specific type of training in.
4. Safe: Riding indoors on Zwift is safer than riding on the road, especially in bad weather or at night.

Conclusion: Zwift is the ultimate virtual cycling platform, offering a fun and engaging way to ride indoors. With a variety of routes, group rides, and training plans, there is something for every level of rider. If you want to spice up your indoor training and connect with other cyclists from around the world, then Zwift is the perfect platform for you.

The way we design and plan our cities and towns has a significant impact on pedestrian and cyclist safety. Infrastructure, such as sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks, can encourage or discourage people from walking and biking. It is important to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety in urban design and planning to create safe and accessible environments for everyone.

Here are some ways that urban design and planning can impact pedestrian and cyclist safety:

1. Sidewalks and Crosswalks: The presence of sidewalks and crosswalks is crucial for pedestrian safety. They provide a designated space for pedestrians to walk and cross the street safely. Crosswalks should be clearly marked and have sufficient lighting to ensure visibility at night.
2. Bike Lanes: Bike lanes provide a designated space for cyclists to ride safely. They should be separated from motor vehicle traffic by a physical barrier, such as a curb or bollards, to prevent collisions. Bike lanes should also be connected to other parts of the transportation network to encourage cycling as a viable form of transportation.
3. Traffic Calming Measures: Traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps and roundabouts, can reduce the speed of motor vehicle traffic and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. These measures help to slow down cars and create a safer environment for vulnerable road users.
4. Safe Routes to School: Creating safe routes to school is important for the safety of children who walk or bike to school. Safe routes should have sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes to ensure that children can get to school safely.
5. Mixed-Use Development: Mixed-use development, which combines residential, commercial, and office space in one area, can encourage walking and biking by making it more convenient. Having amenities, such as grocery stores and restaurants, within walking or biking distance can encourage people to leave their cars at home.
6. Accessibility: It is important to ensure that the built environment is accessible to all, regardless of ability. This includes providing curb cuts, ramps, and other features that make it easier for people with disabilities to navigate the built environment.
7. Public Transportation: Public transportation can also play a role in pedestrian and cyclist safety. Transit stops should have sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists can safely access public transportation.
8. Parking: Providing adequate parking for bicycles and encouraging the use of bike sharing programs can help to reduce the number of cars on the road and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Urban design and planning can have a significant impact on pedestrian and cyclist safety. It is important to prioritize the needs of pedestrians and cyclists in the built environment to create safe and accessible environments for everyone. By prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety, we can create healthier, more sustainable communities that are safer and more enjoyable to live in.

Biking and walking are healthy, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective ways to get around. However, pedestrians and cyclists are some of the most vulnerable road users, and the infrastructure and policies in place often prioritize motor vehicles over their safety. This is why advocacy is crucial to improving conditions for those who choose to bike and walk.

Here are some ways that you can advocate for better infrastructure and policies that prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety:

1. Write to Your Local Officials: One way to advocate for better infrastructure and policies is to write to your local officials. Contact your city council members or state representatives and express your concerns about the lack of safe infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists. Explain how improving these conditions would benefit the community as a whole.
2. Attend Public Meetings: Attend public meetings where transportation plans are being discussed. These meetings provide an opportunity for community members to give feedback and voice their concerns. By attending and speaking up, you can make a difference in how infrastructure and policies are developed and implemented.
3. Join a Local Advocacy Group: Joining a local advocacy group focused on pedestrian and cyclist safety is a great way to amplify your voice and be part of a community working towards positive change. These groups can provide resources, information, and support to help you make a difference.
4. Use Social Media: Social media is a powerful tool for advocacy. Share news articles, videos, and other resources related to pedestrian and cyclist safety on your social media accounts. Use hashtags and tag your local officials to draw attention to the issue.
5. Vote: Voting is one of the most important ways to make your voice heard. Research the candidates and their stances on pedestrian and cyclist safety, and vote for those who prioritize this issue.

Advocating for better infrastructure and policies that prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety is crucial for creating a safer and more equitable transportation system. By taking action, you can help ensure that walking and biking are safe and accessible options for everyone in your community.

Riding a bike to school is a healthy and fun way for children to get exercise and develop independence. However, parents must weigh the benefits against the safety concerns and take appropriate measures to ensure their child’s safety. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of children riding their bikes to school, safety concerns, what parents should do, the school’s responsibility, and other considerations.

Benefits of children riding their bikes to school

Riding a bike to school has numerous benefits for children. Here are some of the advantages:

1. Physical activity: Cycling is a form of physical exercise that can help children maintain a healthy weight, develop strong muscles and bones, and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.
2. Improved mental health: Riding a bike can boost children’s mood, reduce stress, and improve their overall mental health.
3. Environmental impact: Biking is a sustainable mode of transportation that can reduce carbon emissions and help protect the environment.
4. Socialization: Children who bike to school can make friends with other cyclists and develop their social skills.
5. Independence: Riding a bike to school can give children a sense of independence and self-reliance.

Safety concerns

While the benefits of cycling to school are undeniable, parents should also be aware of the safety concerns. Some of the safety issues to consider include:

1. Traffic: Children who bike to school may have to navigate busy roads with cars, buses, and trucks. This can be dangerous if they are not careful.
2. Weather conditions: Poor weather conditions, such as rain or snow, can make cycling more hazardous.
3. Lack of visibility: Poor visibility can make it difficult for drivers to see cyclists, especially during dawn or dusk hours.
4. Other hazards: Children may encounter other hazards on their route to school, such as potholes, uneven pavements, or stray animals.

What parents should do

Parents can take several steps to ensure their child’s safety while biking to school. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Assess the route: Parents should assess the route their child will take to school and identify any potential hazards. They should look for routes with bike lanes or quiet streets with less traffic.
2. Provide the right gear: Parents should ensure that their child has a properly fitting helmet and appropriate cycling clothing, such as reflective clothing or lights for increased visibility.
3. Practice with their child: Parents should practice cycling with their child before they start biking to school. This will help children develop their cycling skills and build their confidence.
4. Set rules: Parents should set rules and expectations for their child’s behavior while cycling to school. They should remind their child to follow traffic laws, signal when turning, and be alert and aware of their surroundings.
5. Communicate with the school: Parents should communicate with the school about their child’s cycling plans. They should inform the school about their child’s route, expected arrival time, and emergency contact information.

The school’s responsibility

Schools also have a responsibility to ensure the safety of students who cycle to school. Here are some ways schools can promote safe cycling:

1. Provide bike racks: Schools should provide secure bike racks or storage areas for students’ bicycles.
2. Educate students: Schools should educate students about safe cycling practices and traffic laws. This can be done through classroom instruction or workshops.
3. Promote bike safety: Schools can promote bike safety by encouraging students to wear helmets, use reflective gear, and follow traffic laws.
4. Monitor the area: Schools should monitor the area around the school for potential hazards and work with local authorities to address any safety concerns.

Conclusion

Cycling to school is a great way for children to stay active, develop independence, and reduce their carbon footprint. However, parents must also consider safety concerns.

Running on public roads can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, get exercise, and explore your neighborhood or city. However, it’s important to be aware of the safety risks and take steps to protect yourself while running on public roads. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some key tips for staying safe when running on public roads.

1. Be aware of traffic: The first and most important safety tip for running on public roads is to be aware of traffic. Always be alert and look both ways before crossing a street, and always run against traffic so you can see any vehicles approaching you. Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight or reflector if you’ll be running in low light conditions.
2. Wear proper shoes: Running shoes are designed to provide support and cushioning for your feet, which can help prevent injuries. Invest in a good pair of running shoes and make sure they fit properly to help prevent blisters, calluses, and other common running injuries.
3. Use headphones wisely: While music can be a great way to keep yourself motivated while running, it’s important to use headphones wisely. Limit the volume of your music so you can still hear what’s going on around you, and avoid wearing earbuds that completely cover your ears, as this can limit your ability to hear traffic and other sounds.
4. Stay visible: Wear bright, reflective clothing so you can be easily seen by drivers. If you’ll be running in low light conditions, carry a flashlight or reflector to make yourself more visible to drivers.
5. Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated while running, especially if you’ll be running for an extended period of time or in hot weather. Carry a water bottle or hydration pack, and take breaks as needed to drink water and rest.
6. Run with a buddy: If possible, run with a buddy or join a running group. Running with someone else can help you stay motivated, and it’s always safer to run with a partner, especially if you’ll be running in a less populated area.
7. Stay aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings while running on public roads. Avoid running in poorly lit areas or areas that feel unsafe, and avoid running with your phone or other valuables visible.
8. Safety tips for female runners: Female runners face unique safety challenges, including the risk of harassment or assault. To stay safe, consider carrying a personal alarm or pepper spray, and run in well-populated areas whenever possible. Avoid running alone in isolated areas, and trust your instincts – if a situation feels unsafe, it’s best to avoid it.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy running on public roads while minimizing the risk of injury or other hazards. Remember to always be alert and aware of your surroundings, and take steps to protect yourself while running on public roads.

Mountain biking is a popular outdoor activity that offers a unique and exciting way to explore the beautiful landscape of the Lake Norman area in North Carolina. With its stunning scenery, varied terrain, and abundance of trails, the region is a true paradise for cyclists of all skill levels. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best mountain biking destinations in Lake Norman and the surrounding areas.

• Fisher Farm Park: Located in Davidson, Fisher Farm Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers. With its rolling hills, smooth singletrack, and challenging technical sections, the park offers a variety of riding experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started, or an experienced rider seeking a more challenging ride, Fisher Farm Park has something for everyone.

• Lake Norman State Park: This beautiful park is located on the shores of Lake Norman and offers a fantastic network of trails for mountain biking. From scenic, rolling singletrack to technical descents and steep climbs, the park has a wide range of trails to choose from. Whether you want to explore the parks’ natural beauty, or test your skills on the more challenging trails, Lake Norman State Park has something for everyone.

• Mazeppa Park: Another great mountain biking destination, Mazeppa Park offers a mix of challenging and fun trails for cyclists of all skill levels. With its rolling terrain, scenic views, and challenging descents, Mazeppa Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a great day on the trails.

• The Whitewater Center: This world-renowned destination is a true mecca for mountain bikers, offering some of the most challenging and exciting riding experiences in the region. With its technical descents, steep climbs, and rugged terrain, the Whitewater Center is a true test of skill and endurance for even the most experienced riders.

• North Mecklenburg Park: This park is known for its scenic beauty and well-maintained trails, making it a great destination for mountain biking. With its rolling terrain and challenging descents, North Mecklenburg Park is a must-visit destination for cyclists of all skill levels.

• Cedar Valley Bike Park: With its challenging technical sections, steep climbs, and fast descents, Cedar Valley Bike Park is a true test of skill and endurance for experienced riders. Whether you’re looking to push your limits or simply enjoy a fun day on the trails, Cedar Valley Bike Park is a great destination to consider.

• West Branch Nature Preserve: This beautiful nature preserve is located on the shores of Lake Norman and offers a network of scenic and challenging trails for mountain bikers. With its rolling terrain, fast descents, and technical sections, West Branch Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination for cyclists of all skill levels.

These are just a few of the many great mountain biking destinations in the Lake Norman area of North Carolina. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or an experienced rider seeking a new challenge, this region offers something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a great day on the trails, be sure to check out these fantastic destinations!

Bicycle and pedestrian safety is a crucial issue on our roads, as these vulnerable road users are often at risk of serious injury or death in collisions with motor vehicles. As a society, we must work together to ensure that our streets are safe for everyone, regardless of whether they are traveling by bike or on foot.

One of the most important factors in promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety is educating both motorists and non-motorists about their rights and responsibilities on the road. Motorists must understand that bicycles and pedestrians have the same legal rights as vehicles, and must be given the same respect and consideration. This includes yielding to them at intersections and crosswalks, and giving them adequate space when passing.

In addition to educating drivers, it is also important to provide infrastructure that promotes safe interactions between motorists and non-motorists. This includes things like bike lanes and sidewalks, as well as traffic calming measures such as speed humps and roundabouts. These infrastructure improvements can help to reduce the speed and volume of traffic, making it safer for everyone to use the road.

Another important aspect of promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety is encouraging more people to walk and bike. The more people on bikes and on foot, the safer it is for everyone. This is because motorists become more accustomed to seeing people on bikes and on foot, and are more likely to anticipate their presence on the road. This is the concept of “Safety in Numbers”, when more people bike or walk, there will be more likelihood that drivers will watch out for these non-motorized road users.

In addition, cities can also promote bike-share and bike rental programs, which can make it easier for people to try biking without having to invest in a bike of their own. Furthermore, cities can also improve their public transportation systems, as this can help to reduce the number of cars on the road, making it safer for bicyclists and pedestrians.

However, it is not only the responsibility of the government or the cities to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety. Individuals can also take steps to ensure their own safety while biking or walking. This includes wearing reflective clothing, using lights at night, and following traffic laws. Additionally, bicyclists should always wear a helmet, as this can greatly reduce the risk of head injury in the event of a crash.

In conclusion, promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety is a complex issue that requires the cooperation of everyone in society. Motorists must be educated about their responsibilities to non-motorized road users, cities must provide infrastructure that promotes safe interactions between motorists and non-motorists, and individuals must take steps to protect themselves while walking or biking. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone on our roads.