Cyclology: Past catching up with you

Frequent glances in a mirror mostly defines vanity. Yet, while cycling it is a safety device. I often see other cyclists without mirrors and wonder about their safety. Maybe they never had a mirror while cycling and don’t realize their near mishaps. For me, it is as essential as a bike pedal. I’d find it difficult to maneuver around safely without my mirror.

With mirror-less biking, I have experienced times when it is so quiet I feel alone with my thoughts then to suddenly have an electric vehicle or a swift, speeding biker pass me without a sound. It provokes the “Where the heck did that come from?” Other times, the sounds of a close highway or noisy environment over takes the sound of a close approaching vehicle, bike, runner or any other mode of transportation. All these scenarios could cause me to become unsteady by the obliviousness of my surroundings. I mean, what if I ebbed while they flowed or visa versa. I shudder the thought.

Frequent glances towards my bike mirror provides me with a sense of what to expect and to avoid. Yes, I could turn my head to check my surroundings but frequent head turns can cause me to become unstable. It is a strange feeling when you think, “I was just there and nothing was around. How did this (other mode of transportation) just pass me, nearly hit me or I hit them?” Remember that “the past has a way of catching up with you” so be prepared and let vanity be your safety.