Cycling Safety And The b=n+1 Rule
Cycling Safety IDs
Clive’s blog today really struck a chord. I have diabetes. I ride alone at least once a week, after dark. I have diabetes so if I was to take a tumble or get clipped by a motorist, I could potentially be having a post-exercise hypo whilst insensible with an injury.
I’ve looked at RoadID before and always thought they looked cool, but expensive and that I was unlikely to wear them each time I ventured out. I’m not inclined to keep a wrist band on permanently, as I do a corporate job and a watch is enough adornment. I remove the watch and my two rings when I ride as I don’t like things jangling about on me.
So, Clive’s blog was a Godsend. These little stickers stick onto your lid, so if you’re a cyclist you’ll never leave home without them accidentally. Now that’s perfect for me, as I don’t run. At all.
Ask yourself: if you were to come a cropper on a ride, what would happen next? Then, think about buying the stickers, eh?
The b=n+1 Rule
Chris reminded me of something I’d forgotten this morning. The equation b=n+1 applies to all cyclists, where:
- b = Number of bikes required
- n = Number of bikes owned
This equation defines us all as cyclists. Once it takes effect, there’s no going back.
This equation is the reason that I downloaded the eBay app to my iPhone. This equation is the reason that I saved the searches “Rz120” and “Whyte t120s” into the eBay app. Now whenever anyone puts either of those two bikes for sale on eBay, I will hear a cheerful “BING!“, see a notification on my phone and instantly become stressed about whether or not to get involved in watching, or worse still participating, in the sale.
Oh yes, of course I rationalise: I’ve told myself that I’m just seeing how cheaply you can pick up a nice 120mm trail bike. I’ve told myself that I’ll save up diligently and not spend impulsively. I’ve told myself that I’m looking at shiny new trail bikes because my son is outgrowing his 24” bike and I can pass on my Fat Boy to him, so I actually really neeeeed a shiny new trail bike…
But we all know, it’s just the maths working their magic. The equation’s got me. I’m doomed. I’m a cyclist.
Are you? 😉