Inspired by a recent review of the ridiculoulsy expensive bike bell from the states recently on the STW site, I got to thinking that a cheap subtle bell to alert fellow trail users of my approach might be a good idea. Now I can hear your stifled giggles and those of you at the back openly laughing, but bare with me.
Being honest I didnt actually know whether this would be a good idea so I figured spend as little as possible and then if it ends up in the bin its no great loss. A few hours later and 0.0001 club card points better off I attached a tiny black bell to my handlebars (colour cordinated so it doesnt draw attention to itself – I have some dignity).
I want to tell you good people that this was truly liberating experience for me. I tend to go out and ride early Sunday mornings so towards the end of the ride it is common to come across walkers and I have always tried to maintain good relationships with other trail users but this means slowing down and saying excuse me – the alternative being shouting from a distance which often offends people, sensitive as they are. But not now, oh no, now a ding ding from the bell alerts the walker to my presence well in advance allowing me to maintain my speed as they politley step aside. But the best thing about it………..most people fall about laughing (myself included) at the hairy arsed mountain biker on super expensive trail beast ringing a bell like a girl – thus eveyone is happy. We all have a laugh and head off into the day with a smile on our face, I can ride faster and the relationships are not only maintained but enhanced. Trust me people its the future it really does work, got over yourself and get one! Now where can I get a dog whistle?