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Last week I learned of Brady Clark and Mykle Hansen’s invention, the Speed-Vest. The idea is that the cyclist’s speed is displayed on their back, which in turn shows motorists that bicycles aren’t slowing down traffic all that much. The speed vest got me thinking, “What other messages could this be used for?”
I actually don’t think this is a very good idea..either the crazy wording or the speed display. When driving your will naturally steer towards whatever you are looking at. If you look left for long enough, you’re car will start drifting left. I want a driver to see me, make a mental note, and continue to drive. I don’t want them to be reading my back as they approach.
I have heard some people suggest, “You can’t hit what you can’t see.”
Urban Jeff> Sure you can. Curbs, shrubbery, pedestrians clad in grey at dusk…
You read my mind…when I saw those vests, I thought to myself, “hmmm, what ELSE could I put back there to get my feelings across to motorists?” Bravo.
How about “Somebody’s Dad”
I’ve been thinking a good vest design would the use of Sharrows. I think it would help people get used to seeing them in areas where they aren’t used. i wonder if there are any legal implications, it’s kind of like wearing a yield sign.
HAHAHA! You’re hired!
I’d like one that says KEEP LEFT with a left pointing arrow, but this still doesn’t protect me from cars that don’t use their turn signals, or pull out suddenly from a parking spot right next to me. I learned to ride on the left hand side of the right lane. I assume no one sees me even though I have a adult trike style. I was tempted to grab onto the back bumper and when they finally saw me, say they pulled out and snagged me, just to see the expression on their face. But, too dangerous. But I don’t know how to get people to concentrate on their driving. I do not believe the speed vest will help. What would help cyclists is if the gasoline was $6 or $7 a gallon, then no vehicles would be on the road!
What about, “Pleeez, don’t kill me!” Certainly would reflect my feelings when I’m on a bike at night…