UPDATE: Here is the link for the Pedal Co-op in Philly.

Explaining a diversionary fall and how to cross RR tracks safely in downtown Orlando. Photo by Keri Caffrey.

Keri Caffrey and I taught roadway cycling to a handful of teens from Parramore Kidz Zone today.

While on the one hand it’s rather like trying to herd cats, on the other it’s more rewarding that teaching cyclists who already “know it all.”  Fewer bad habits to break, and more smiles from the sense of accomplishment.

When you tell a teen, “It’s safer to ride in the center of the lane than to hug the curb,” they welcome the advice.  They haven’t been socialized as much to keep all the way to the right.  They also see us adult instructors as real experts, while many club cyclists think we’re just self-appointed know-it-alls; so the teen are more receptive to our teachings.  And I’m sure they really like the idea of being able to do something they originally thought was wrong, and that makes them feel like equals and grown-ups.

The ideal payoff for this will be seeing one or more of them out on the road on their own and implementing the skills and practices we’ve taught them.