Bicyclist

MICHIGAN

Fall 2016 PROMOTING BICYCLING AND THE SAFETY OF

BICYCLISTS ON MICHIGAN ROADWAYS

In this issue:
LMB Tours Round-Up.
Find Out How to Help LMB Further Its
Mission in 2017.
CycleSavvy Breaks Down Different
Page 3 Page 5 Page 7
Behaviors in Cycling Spaces. Message from LMBs New LMB Bicycle Legislations LMBs Tour Directors Road to
And More! Board Chair. Journey So Far. Recovery.
 Urgency and Opportunity: More Than Ever, the Time to Ride is Now.
Lindsey DesArmo - LMB Board Chair
The League of Michigan Bicyclists, or LMB, is
a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization devoted For bicyclists, and those danger when they get on their bicycle. We
exclusively to the advancement of bicycling. who know and love people need your help. A narrow window of oppor-
Our mission is to promote bicycling and increase
the safety of bicyclists on Michigan roadways.
who ride, the summer tunity is upon us to pass a 5-foot passing
of 2016 in Michigan law, establish vulnerable roadway user
Michigan Bicyclist Magazine is a LMB member has been difficult and protections, and increase drivers education
benefit. It is published as part of our efforts to alarming. After so many time spent on bicycle safety. NOW is the time
educate Michigan cyclists, law enforcement,
policy makers, engineering and planning
recent cycling tragedies, to TAKE ACTION to contact your legislators and
communities, and others on issues affecting LMB is working harder the Governor and urge them to swiftly move
bicycling in Michigan. than ever to further its mission to promote this legislation. Ask your family members and
Michigan Bicyclist Copyright 2016 the safety of bicyclists on our roadways, and fellow Michiganders to do the same to help
On the Cover: LMBs Tour Director, Scott Elliotts to ensure that the increasingly clear need for protect their loved ones and cyclists in their
daughters, Evelyn and Lydia, take a break from real change in our legislature is heard loud communities. LMB staff and volunteers are
their ride on this summers Sunrise Adventure and clear. I am honored to serve as the new working tirelessly to make this message heard,
Tour.
Chair for LMBs Board of Directors during this but we rely on your continued support to get
Photo courtesy: Scott Elliott
pivotal time. Riding on the road is not only an it done. Please visit and share our action alert
Editor, Art & Design: ANETA KIERSNOWSKI enjoyable opportunity to experience our (www.LMB.org/takeaction) to connect with
Letters/Comments/Advertisements may be state in a unique way, to take in fresh air and your legislators. Additionally, please keep us
directed to: aneta@LMB.org breathtaking views. Bicycling also provides many in mind as you start to look forward to your
Michiganders the means to travel: to work, back year-end charitable contributions. Your
LMB Directors: home, to shopping centers, and even to schools. year-end donations help to ensure that our
MEREDITH BEGIN staff can continue this very important work.
DAVE BOURGEAULT This summer, my husband Joe and I ventured
JIM CARPENTER to new territories for us across the state,
LINDSEY DESARMO, Chair including to the crystal clear waters of Torch
NORMAN COX Lake in northern Michigan. Though it was a
DAVID JONES, Treasurer beautiful experience, our hearts were heavy as
MICHEAEL REUTER we rode around the lake. As this outing came
STEVEN ROACH on the heels of Kalamazoos tragic crash, where
YVONNE RUCKER Printed with
recycled content
a motorist struck nine experienced cyclists
MICHAEL SHEEAN, Secretary resulting in serious injuries for four and loss of
BRYAN WALDMAN life for five, we couldnt help but be hypervigi-
BRYAN WILKINSON lant. This tragedy was, unfortunately, only one
of too many motorist vs bicycle crashes over
Staff the summer, and the feeling of unease we felt
JOHN LINDENMAYER was echoed by fellow cyclists in later conversa-
Executive Director tions.
john@LMB.org
There is a need to change the tide and
ANETA KIERSNOWSKI keep bicyclists from feeling that they are in
Development & Communications
Director
aneta@LMB.org

BEN SAINT-ONGE
Administrative Assistant
ben@LMB.org

SCOTT ELLIOTT
Tour Director
scott@LMB.org

League of Michigan Bicyclists

416 S. Cedar St. Suite A, Lansing, MI 48912
(517) 334-9100
www.LMB.org

1 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016

Directors Hub
John Lindenmayer LMB Executive Director
After a year filled with triumphs and tragedies,
LMBs voice to make bicycling safe and convenient
for everyone in Michigan is louder than ever, thanks
to supporters like you!
I hope you will consider donating during LMBs
Annual Campaign. We rely on the support of
individuals like you as we fight to make Michigan a
more bicycle-friendly state.
Im pleased to share that a few generous donors have pledged more
than $15,000 towards LMBs Challenge Fund. These funds are set aside
as a special year-end match to encourage new and increased giving
during our Annual Campaign. Please visit www.LMB.org/donate to take
advantage of this unique opportunity to double the impact of your gift!
There is no way to sugar coat it, 2016 has been a difficult year. From
the senseless massacre in Kalamazoo that killed five and injured four
cyclists, to losing a world champion triathlete at the hands of a passing
driver, to the heartbreaking news of a 22-year old driver that killed a
19-year old bicyclist near Adrian, this summers headlines were painful.
Just weeks prior to LMBs 30th Anniversary of Shoreline West, our grief
was magnified when we learned that our own Tour Director, Scott
Elliott, was the victim of a horrific hit and run by a drunk driver.
At least 23 bicycle fatalities have occurred in Michigan this year. This
disturbing news is compounded by the fact that bicycle fatalities rose
57% the previous year. As LMB learned of each new injury and fatality,
our hearts ached with sadness and frustration.
We found comfort in the inspiring stories of leadership, generosity,
and compassion that emerged, however. Amazing volunteers selflessly
stepped up to help host Shoreline West during Scotts recovery. LMB
graciously received many generous donations in honor of Scott and
others. Ghost bikes were placed anonymously at crash sites to raise
awareness. Memorial rides were organized to honor fallen cyclists,
demonstrating resilience. Many communities banded together to
provide outlets for grief and fundraise for the families of crash victims.
Local efforts to adopt policies to protect cyclists were invigorated, and
resulted in many successes. It is clear that bicyclists and non-cyclists
alike are eager to prevent future calamities in our communities. To all
who helped to make Michigan bicycling better in his or her own way,
thank you!
Through all of these painful headlines, LMBs resolve to make Michigan
a more bicycle-friendly state has only strengthened. In 2016, LMB led
the charge to enact new policies to safeguard Michigan bicyclists. We
are pleased to share that our key legislative priorities are moving closer
to the Governors desk. These include bills to:
Establish a 5-foot passing law requiring drivers to pass bicyclists safely,
Improve drivers education to allocate more time to bicycle safety, and
Enhance penalties for drivers who injure or kill vulnerable roadway users.
But our work is far from done. We need to carry forward our energy to
ensure that our 5-foot passing and drivers education bills are signed
into law. Likewise, your support will help us continue to advocate for
the Vulnerable Roadway User legislation, which is currently stalled in
the Senate. Your donations underwrite LMBs ability to advocate on
behalf of Michigan bicyclists.
Your donation also allows LMB to annually distribute thousands of
copies of our award winning What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know
booklets. These invaluable resources are funded primarily through
the generosity of individuals like you. They provide essential bicycle
safety information to clubs, shops, event organizers, law enforcement,
and others. Your support helps advance our Share MI Roads campaign
to educate drivers and bicyclists about how to safely interact on the
roads. LMB also relies on your contributions to promote Michigan
bicycling through our annual Ride Calendar and other means.
The voice of bicycling in Michigan grows louder with each new
donor and every renewing contributor. Please take advantage of this
opportunity to help grow our voice and ensure that we continue
to forge ahead in 2017. Together, we can prevent more senseless
tragedies, increase ridership, and support on-the-ground advocacy
efforts to help make Michigan bicycling safe and convenient for all!
Thank you for your support during our Annual Campaign!
Mark Your Calendars
LMB Tours 2017
Sunrise Adventure
June 15-18
Shoreline West
August 5-12
Michigan Upper Peninsula (MUP)
July 9-15
Registration begins January 1st.
LMB.org/tours
2
The long process of physical
and mental recovery is arduous,
especially when it involves
something you love dearly.
Dmitriy Shapiro
Originally reported in Adrians The Daily
Telegram, Oct. 10, 2016.
For avid cyclist Scott Elliott, associate professor
in the Department of Philosophy and Religion
at Adrian College, surviving a potentially
life-threatening crash is not keeping him off
his bike.
On July 23, while finishing a 93-mile ride
from Coldwater, through Indiana and Ohio,
Elliott was the victim in a hit-and-run crash
involving an alleged drunken driver. While he
considers himself lucky to be alive, his injuries
were extensive.
Elliott suffered fractures to his collarbone,
shoulder blade, eight ribs, two vertebrae,
his pelvis and femur. Worst of all was the
damage to his cheekbone, for which he
underwent extensive surgery that included
the installation of metal plates.
The hit knocked Elliott unconscious. Luckily his
riding partners were there to help him, and to
witness the incident.
Elliott was released from the hospital four
days after the incident. Because of the nature
of his injuries, he spent weeks sleeping in a
hospital bed for three hours at a time. While the
physical injuries were extensive, the psycho-
The helmet Scott was wearing at the time of his hit-and-run
crash saved his life.
3 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016
logical impact on him and his
family was worse.
I cant ride very long without
the shoulder being severely sore
and fatigued. But theres also
a lot of psychological issues,
Elliott said. Im anxious about
being on the road. My wife is
terribly anxious about me being
Scott Elliott, LMB Tour Director and passionate cyclist, survived a near fatal
hit-and-run crash this summer and has since gotten back on his bicycle.
on the road.
all the time. So now for my life to be short
In the early stages of his recovery, Elliott
weekend rides is really quite different.
volunteered at Re-Bicycle Lenawee an
Adrian-based nonprofit co-op that repairs Getting back on the bicycle was important
bicycles for community members and for Elliott. He said he did not want the drivers
works to provide bicycles to low-income irresponsible actions to take away something
residents. Elliott is a board member with that is so dear and so central to his life. Yet, he
the organization. According to Elliott, the didnt realize how much anxiety he would face
volunteer work gave him a way to be involved when he began riding on open roads again.
in his hobby without forcing himself to get
back on a bike too soon. He waited, as he put Bicycling began in 2008 for Elliott. Feeling
it, for the desire to ride to emerge naturally. overweight and unhealthy, he took it up as
a way to get healthy and avoid going to the
After months of recovery, Elliott, who is the gym. Before long, it came to be much more.
Tour Director for the League of Michigan
Bicyclists a nonprofit organization There was just something fulfilling about it
dedicated to educating and advocating for and the kind of quality of life that came from
cyclists in the state felt the pull to get back being alive, he said. Feeling good, being
to riding. healthy, seeing people, seeing my community,
not wasting money on gas and my car and all
He wanted to participate in the Tour de Troit, a those sorts of things. It became about a way
Sept. 17 cycling event in downtown Detroit. He I could see the place I live in from a different
got on a bicycle again just prior to the event. light. I could experience my environment in a
way that was very intimate and personal and
Its an amazing event, but it worked well
meaningful. I was in my environment, not just
because they shut down the streets, so its all
passing by it.
bicycles, Elliott said. It was a good way to
kind of ease back into it. For now, going for rides on public roads takes
extensive planning and mental preparation
Its great if you think in terms of recovery, but
from Elliott and his wife.
its pretty horrifying if you think about what I
was doing prior to being hit by this person. I Still, for all the challenges, he considers
mean, at the time I was hit, I had 4,000 miles himself fortunate to be alive. As a member of
under my belt for the year and was riding
Long Process continued on page 10
Recent Legal Decisions Affecting Bicyclists
Sarah W. Colegrove and Todd E. Briggs
The Michigan No-Fault statute, adopted in
1973, is very likely the most litigated section
of Michigan law. This area of the law is
constantly evolving due to the ever-changing
composition of the judiciary and the myriad
situations that give rise to injuries.
Michigan No-Fault law can be categorized
into two basic sections: 1st Party Benefits
and 3rd Party Claims. Both sections apply
to a bicyclist when he or she is injured by
a motor vehicle. In each insurance policy,
the 1st Party is the insured, the 2nd Party is
the motor vehicle insurance company, and
the 3rd Party is an unknown person that
has his/her own No-Fault motor vehicle
coverage. For the purposes of this article, we
will assume that the bicyclist either has
his/her own motor vehicle that is insured or
that someone in his/her household does. We
will leave it for the subject of a future article
to discuss what happens when the bicyclist
or any member of his/her household does
not have an insured motor vehicle.
When the use or operation of a motor
vehicle causes injury to a bicyclist, the
bicyclists own motor vehicle insurance
automatically provides the bicyclist certain
coverages, without regard to who was at
fault. These benefits, called Personal Injury
Protection (PIP), provides coverage for
all necessary medical and rehabilitation
benefits for your lifetime without any cap or
ceiling. See MCL 500.3107(1)(a). PIP benefits
also provides coverage for Wage Loss for up
to three years and coverage for up to $20.00
per day for Replacement Services for things
such as housekeeping and yard-work, if the
injured party is no longer able to perform
these tasks due to the injury. It is interesting
to note that the $20.00 per day amount for
replacement services was established in
1972 by the Michigan Legislature and has
not been increased in 44 years.
PIP benefits also provides coverage for
In-Home Nursing or Attendant Care which
may be provided by a family member or
third party hired by the family. The servic-
es must be reasonably necessary for the general ability to lead his or her normal life.
injured persons care, recovery and rehabili- Additionally, to prevail in a 3rd Party Claim
tation, including meal preparation, feeding, against the at-fault driver, the bicyclist must
dressing, personal assistance, hygiene, be less than 50% at fault. See 500.3135(2)(b),
bathing and transportation to medical the comparative negligence section of the
treatment. PIP also covers Accommodations: No-Fault Act.
renovations to make a home/apartment
accessible or suitable. It also covers purchase The No-Fault Act limits the type of damages
or modification of a motor vehicle, if neces- an injured party can receive under a 3rd
sary. Finally, PIP covers reasonable expenses Party Claim. An allowable claim includes
associated with establishing a guardianship noneconomic losses such as pain and
or conservatorship, including attorney suffering, long term disability, and
fees incurred. disfigurement. Claims for expenses,
work loss, and survivors loss that exceed
Another important part of the No-Fault Act is coverage provided by their 1st Party Benefits
that if you have health or disability insurance are also allowable.
coverage, that insurance company has first
priority to pay for your medical expenses or It is important to remember that the
lost wages before your No-Fault coverage. No-Fault law only applies when a bicyclist
sustains injury when the use or operation
Once you have met your health or disability
of a motor vehicle is involved. The No-Fault
coverage limitations, then your No-Fault
law does not apply when a bicyclist sustains
benefits will cover your medical and
an injury due to a defect such as a pothole
rehabilitation expenses. Often, this is called
in a sidewalk or in the road, when the injury
Coordinated Coverage.
is caused by another bicyclist or pedestrian,
When a bicyclist suffers death, permanent or when the condition of a trail or bike path
serious disfigurement, or serious impairment causes the injury.
of body function due to the use or operation
We hope this summary of Michigan No
of a motor vehicle, the bicyclist can bring
Fault benefits is helpful, in the event you are
an action against the at-fault driver of
injured while bicycling. The laws that apply
the motor vehicle. This injury threshold
to bicyclists contains many mandatory time
has been narrowed quite significantly in
limits and specific requirements that must
the last fifteen years due several factors
be met to recover your benefits. It is best to
beyond the scope of this article. To prove involve an experienced bicycle attorney as
serious impairment of body function the soon as practical after an injury, so that all
injured party has to show an objectively your rights are protected.
manifested impairment of an important
body function that affects the persons As always, safe and happy biking.
2016 Sarah W. Colegrove and Todd E. Briggs.
Todd and Sarah are lawyers in private practice. In
addition to helping athletes injured in bicycle and
sports-related accidents, they concentrate in the
areas of civil litigation, probate, trust and estate
administration. Todd and Sarah are competitive
cyclists, swimmers and triathletes. Each has
competed in many state and national running, biking
and triathlon competitions, including the Ironman.
Briggs Colegrove, P.C.
660 Woodward Ave., Suite 1523
Detroit, Michigan 48226
attorneys@briggscolegrove.com
(313) 964-2077
4
Summer of Tragedy, Summer of Progress
Aneta Kiersnowski
The bicycling world in Michigan was shaken to
its core this summer. The Kalamazoo cycling
tragedy, when nine experienced cyclists were
mowed down by an allegedly intoxicated
driver leaving five dead and serious injuries to
the surviving four, was on a level Michiganders
had never seen before. This tragedy dominated
the news in the weeks that followed, bringing
attention to the dangers cyclists sometimes
face on our roadways. The attention eventually
reached the State legislature, quickening the
movement of some of LMBs most important
policy issues.
While the Kalamazoo tragedy may not have
been necessarily prevented by new laws, the
tragedy spread awareness of the alarming
number of bicycle crashes in Michigan. In 2015,
bicycle crashes rose a staggering 57% from
the year before. To date, there have been 23
bicyclist fatalities in 2016 in Michigan.
These tragic numbers are preventable. LMB
has called for simple legislative measures that
have been adopted by other states in order
to keep cyclists safe. The most prominent is
a statewide safe passing law. LMB is pushing
for a standard requirement of five feet of space
that a motorist must give a cyclist as they pass
them on the roadway. Michigan lags behind
the rest of the country in this protection,
being one of only 11 states that do not specifi-
cally require motorists to pass safely. LMB is
also advocating for vulnerable roadway user
5 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016
protections for bicyclists, pedestrians, and
wheelchair users. These protections would
increase the penalty for motorists who injure
or kill non-motorized users. With the rise of
distracted and intoxicated driving, these
penalties would serve as an additional deterrent
for these actions. This summers crash in
Kalamazoo, though a tragedy in every sense
of the word, brought attention to the urgency
of these needs, and was a catalyst for change.
State Senator Margaret OBrien, from Kalamazoo,
heard the call of her community as it mourned
the loss of the five neighbors and friends who
were killed doing what they loved. She, along
with Senator Knezek of Dearborn Heights,
took the opportunity this fall to introduce a
package of bicycle safety bills. They introduced
LMBs five-foot safe passing (SB 1076 and 1077)
and vulnerable roadway user protection
(SB 1029 and 1030) bills. To round out the During the Senate session, votes on our bills were displayed
digitally, showing green for a yea vote, red for a nay vote, and
package, they also introduced a bill that would
yellow for Senators who abstained or were excused from voting.
require increased time in drivers education
(SB 1078) to help new motorists learn how to the Senate Judiciary Committee. To ensure
safely share the road with bicyclists. that the hearing would be visibly full of cyclists
and cycling supporters, LMB again reached
Once the bills were introduced, LMB and its
out to our members for their support. The
members sprang into action. An Action Alert
day of the hearing, LMB and Senator OBrien
was set up to allow Michiganders to contact
hosted a coffee hour for the supporters to
their local Senator and Representative, as well
as Governor Snyder, to urge their support. meet and share their stories ahead of the
To date, over 8,000 emails have been sent hearing. Many of the people who attended
through the Action Alert. lost loved ones who were cyclists. Others had
close calls of their own and were still recover-
The bills were soon referred for a hearing in ing, both mentally and physically, from their
experiences.
During the hearing, emotional testimony of
cyclists who were affected by tragedy on the
roadway was shared in support of the bills. The
sole opposition was raised by a representative
of the Secretary of States (SOS) office, citing
concern that adding extra time to drivers
education could lead to increased costs and
possibly less participation. The testimony
was capped off by the emotional appeal of
one of the survivors of the Kalamazoo cycling
tragedy. The Committee voted unanimously
to approve all five bills, moving them to the
Senate floor.
With this significant victory, LMB members
began to again reach out to their Senators
through phone calls, letters, and even social
media posts, to urge them to vote yes on the
Senate floor.
The bills were finally put to a vote during a
whirlwind session in late October.
The safe passage bills (SB 1076 and 1077)
codified the required distance to pass a
bicyclist as five feet. SB 1076 addressed motor-
ists passing on the right of bicyclists. Examples
of why a motorist might pass
on the right of a bicyclist
include when the bicyclist is
riding on the far left side of a
one-way road, or when the
bicyclist is maneuvering away
from the right side of the road
in order to make a left turn.
SB 1077 addressed the more
common occurrence: motorists
passing on the left of a bicyclist.
It states:
The driver of a motor vehicle
overtaking a bicycle proceeding
in the same direction shall pass
at a safe distance of at least 5
feet to the left of that bicycle,
and when safely clear of the
overtaken bicycle shall take
up a position as near the right
hand edge of the main traveled
portion of the highway as is
practicable.
Language was added to SB 1077 to allow
drivers to pass bicyclists in a no-passing zone.
It states:
Notwithstanding Section 640, if it is safe to do
so, the driver of a motor vehicle overtaking a
bicycle proceeding in the same direction may
overtake and pass the bicycle in a no-passing
zone.
Significant changes were made to the drivers
education bill (SB 1078). Originally, the bill
sought to require no less than three hours of
information pertaining to bicycles, motorcycles,
and other vulnerable roadway users, including
pedestrians. The revised language now splits a
single hour between all three user groups.
This bill was modified on the Senate Floor to read:
Classroom instruction shall include not less
than 1 hour of information concerning the
laws pertaining to bicycles, and motorcycles,
and other vulnerable roadway users, including
pedestrians, and shall emphasize awareness
of their operation on the streets, roads, and
highways of this state.
The laws of this state pertaining to aware-
ness of bicycles, motorcycles, and other
vulnerable roadway users, including pedestri-
ans, shall also be incorporated into additional
curriculum, which shall include, but is not
limited to, laws pertaining to yielding the
right-of-way, traveling at a safe and reasonable
speed for conditions, ensuring a safe distance,
and distracted driving.
Though the reduction in required time was
a disappointment, the inclusion of the second
sentence, which requires that bicycle information
also be incorporated in other areas of the
curriculum outside of the stand-alone hour
segment offers an avenue to spread bicycle
safety throughout the curriculum.
Senator OBrien was in favor of the reduction
in time in order to appease concerns by
the SOS office over the original three hour
requirement. While LMB pushed back on
any reduction in time, we still believe this is a
positive step towards educating young drivers
about sharing the road. Additionally, Senator
OBrien and SOS are already discussing
opportunities to make more
substantial changes to the drivers
education curriculum next session,
including adding more time to the
entire course. This will provide the
cycling community new opportu-
nities to push for additional bicycle
safety content.
After these minor adjustments in
language, SB 1076, 1077, and 1078
passed when called to a vote on
the Senate floor.
One omission from our Senate
victory was our vulnerable
roadway user bills that create
enhanced penalties for drivers who
injure or kill a bicyclist. Despite
the Senate Judiciary Committee
unanimously passing SB 1029 and
1030, Republican leadership did not
schedule the bills for a floor vote,
stating concerns about creat-
ing special classes of penalties. Despite the
setback, LMB remains optimistic about the
prospect of advancing these bills.
The bills that passed out of the Senate now
await action by the House. They will be referred
to the House Transportation Committee for
a hearing. LMB will be closely monitoring
the progress of the hearing, as well as the
movement of the rest of our bicycle safety
legislation. No matter what steps or stages
lay ahead of the bills, our members are ready
and eager to spring into action once more to
ensure they continue to move forward.
6
 LMB Tours 2017 Season Wrap Up
Sunrise Adventure
The Sunrise Adventure kicked off the summer
with a fixed-base, three day event. Riders were
free to choose from a variety of routes each
day, looping around the City of Alpena. In
total, over 140 riders were treated to spectacu-
lar views of Lake Huron, scenic farmland, and
crystal clear inland lakes while their loved ones
sampled the best of our host city.
The variety of local attractions in the area
made it easy for our riders to enjoy their time
off their bicycles as much as their time riding
them. Throughout the weekend, when they
werent cycling, riders sampled the wonderful
attractions in Alpena: glass bottom boat tours,
ice cream shops, brew pubs, and wineries.
With so many options at our home base, many
family members and friends who do not ride
joined the cyclists and shared the adventure.
Perfect June weather sealed the deal. This
years Sunrise was one to remember!
7 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016
MUP
As the summer heat began to sizzle, riders on
our Michigan Upper Peninsula Tour, affection-
ately referred to as MUP, found a respite from
the heat the rest of the state was experiencing.
There were plenty of days during the week-
long tour where the sun shone off the surfaces
of the Great Lakes along our route. However,
a few milder, slightly overcast days kept riders
cool and feeling refreshed as they cycled.
At times, riders found themselves immersed
in quiet remoteness as they rode through old-
growth forests. The route was also dotted with
rustic delights. Fresh baked sourdough bread
at Brick Oven Bakery, brews at the local brew-
eries, and other U.P. staples welcomed riders
along the way.
A layover day in Sault Ste. Marie gave riders
a chance to recharge. The Soo, one of the
more bustling areas of the U.P., had plenty to
explore, from historical sites to fudge shops.
After the layover, riders were ready to
Aneta Kiersnowski
conquer the final leg of the tour. The home-
stretch offered gorgeous views: Lake Hurons
shoreline skirted the route in many parts.
The U.P. is stunning mid-summer, and MUP
showed it off at its very best.
Shoreline West
What did Shoreline West look like 30 years
ago? This was a topic of discussion during
LMBs largest bicycle tour, which celebrated
its 30th Anniversary in August. Luckily, Shore-
line has a loyal group of riders and volunteers,
some of which have been around from the
very beginning, who were able to answer that
question.
To celebrate the milestone anniversary, nearly
600 riders and volunteers, veterans and newbies
ranging in age from 4 to 76, came in from 38
states and two countries, to ride the route.
Just like in years past, riders cycled through
fields of sunflowers, past impressive sand
dunes, and up a couple screaming hills topped
with panoramic views that made the climb worth it. Cherry
Point Market again had plenty of fresh coffee and cherry
turnovers ready for our group. Watermelon was served at the
top of Arcadia Hill, long dubbedWatermelon Hill by Shore-
line riders. In the evenings, riders ventured to the charming
towns that hosted us for great food and the occasional adult
beverage. Shoreline West has always showcased a little bit of
everything that makes Michigan awesome, and as usual, it
did not disappoint this year.

In addition to the usual gems along the route, LMB planned a

few special surprises to celebrate our milestone. One surprise
was LMBs new photo booth. A backdrop, camera, and fun
accessories were available for riders to use at every site.
Riders posed and had their photos sent to them or posted to
their social media accounts. By the end of the tour, LMB had
collected many humorous shots of riders just goofing around!

During the layover day in Traverse City, LMB hosted an

anniversary concert. Michigan musician Joshua Davis, best
known for his 3rd place victory on NBCs The Voice, was on
hand to serenade our riders. This historic City Opera House

Now and Then - Shoreline West is as much fun in 2016 as it was in the 80s and 90s.

provided a beautiful backdrop for the intimate performance. Riders who stuck
around after the encore even got a chance to chat with Davis and have their CDs
signed.

So, how did Shoreline West look 30 years ago? The route, some of the landmarks,
and the gear and equipment of the cyclists have changed quite a bit. However,
looking at the smiling bicyclists enjoying the beauty of Michigan with friends and
loved ones, most things look exactly the same.

LMB Tours
LMB Tours help fund our education and advocacy efforts and help grow our voice
to make Michigan bicycling better. LMB is extremely grateful to the volunteers,
host cities, and riders who join us each year to make these tours so special. Plan-
ning for LMBs 2017 Tours is underway and is shaping up to be even bigger and
better than this year! Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to contact
the LMB office. Registration for all tours opens January 1st, 2017. Visit LMB.org/tours
for more information.

8
Three Categories of Cycling Space
& How to Behave in Each of Them - By Sue Kropscott, Cycling Savvy
It is important as a cyclist to be extremely
aware of the world around you while you ride.
Think of the environment you are traveling
through as cycling space. Understanding
cycling spaces dictates how to behave in
order to have the best and safest ride.
Cycling space can be divided into three
categories: shared pedestrian space, roadways
along the side of motor traffic, and the regular
travel lane of a roadway. Each category has
unique rules, hazards, and riding behaviors.
In shared pedestrian space, a cyclist is
separated from motor traffic, but encounters other
non-motorized traffic, including pedestrians,
joggers, etc. This type of space includes sidewalks,
shared use paths, and rail trails.
There are a number of potential hazards in
shared pedestrian space. Pedestrians can be
one of them. They move at different paces
and may stop or step to the side without
warning. Buildings, landscaping, parked cars,
and other objects can create blind intersections.
Also, debris can easily collect in shared pedes-
trian space.
These hazards dictate riding slowly and
cautiously in shared pedestrian space. Yield
to other users in the space. Always give an
audible signal, such as a horn, bell, or shout of
passing on your left, to warn others that you
are moving through.
Dont lose awareness of nearby motor traffic
because you will likely encounter it at inter-
sections and driveways. When this happens,
cyclists have the right of way but must also
follow any traffic signals.
Although it is legal in Michigan to ride on a
sidewalk, unless prohibited by local ordinances,
it is not recommended. Typical sidewalks
are not built to accommodate cyclists. They
are too narrow for normal operation, sight
lines are inadequate, and uneven surfaces
are common. If you must ride on a sidewalk,
always ride in the same direction of traffic and
ride with extreme caution. Do not assume that
motorists can see you and be extra careful
when crossing intersections and driveways.
Another category of cycling space is the
roadway along the side of motor traffic. Most
bike lanes fall into this category. Bike lanes are,
unfortunately, not a part of every roadway. As
a result, the best place to cycle may not always
be clearly defined.
Riding in bike lanes is not mandatory in
Michigan. A cyclist is not required to use them
when their design, condition, or other factors
may actually make cycling more dangerous.
The shoulders, the edge of the pavement, and
along the curb of a roadway are alternatives
that fall under this category of cycling space.
The biggest hazard when riding in this cycling
space is motor vehicles. There are many
potential points of conflict with other traffic,
particularly at intersections and driveways.
The edge of the road also collects debris,
can contain drainage grates, and is where
pavement first begins to break. Riding to the
right of traffic also means shorter sight lines,
the potential of being in motorists blind spots,
and being harder to be seen by motorists.
Use moderate speeds. Be aware that shoulder
traffic must yield to all other traffic. Obey all
traffic signs and signals. Use hand signals to
communicate with motorists so that they can
predict your movements and respond to them
accordingly.
At intersections, move into the general travel
lane and position yourself according to your
destination. This generally means moving to
the left side of the lane or into the left- turn
lane if turning left, moving to the middle lane
if proceeding straight and a right-turn lane
exists, and moving to the right-turn lane or
right side of the lane if turning right. Again, always
signal to motorists to make your intentions clear
before you change lanes.
The third category of cycling space is the
regular travel lane of a roadway. In this space,
cyclists are part of the traffic flow.
Riding in this space means being part of all
traffic and following the same rules as motorists.
Follow all traffic controls. Cycling near the
center of the lane can increase your visibility.
Even though there are fewer surface hazards
in the regular travel lane, always remain alert.
The differences in the cycling spaces
become easy to spot once you determine to
look out for them. No matter where you are
traveling on your bicycle, your behavior is
important in ensuring that you arrive at your
destination safely.

Sue Kropscott is a CyclingSavvy Instructor and life-long transportation cyclist.

CyclingSavvy is a program of the American Bicycling Education Association
(ABEA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting successful bicycling
through bicycling-related education for the general public, traffic engineers,
transportation planners, law enforcement professionals and educators.
CyclingSavvy is an adult traffic cycling course, whose mission is to make
a difference in peoples lives by empowering them to use their bikes to
go anywhere they want, safely and confidently, using any of the facilities
available.
Photos Through its I am Traffic program, ABEA provides resources and
by Chris Nowak
pursues bicycling equity through the 6 Es of Equality, Education, Enforcement,
Engineering, Encouragement, and Evaluation. For more information,
visit cyclingsavvy.org

9 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016

The 5th Annual Michigan Bicycling Photo
Contest sponsored by American Cycle and
Fitness is in full swing!

Between now and December 15th, submit

your best bicycle-themed photos for the
chance to be on the cover of our 2017 Michi-
gan Ride Calendar, and win other fun prizes!

We are looking for images that highlight the

beauty, adventure, diversity, and triumph of
bicycling. Images must be taken anywhere
in the state of Michigan and have a bicycle-
related theme. Photos that depict scenery
must also include some connection to or
indication of bike travel. We are especially
interested in images that showcase the
wide range of bicycle-related experiences:
touring, road, dirt and trail riding, rural and
urban settings, scenery and weather, people,
and the emotions of bicycling in Michigan.

In addition to being the cover of the Michi-

gan Ride Calendar, the 1st place winner
will also receive a $250 American Cycle and
Fitness gift certificate good at any store or
online, $250 LMB gift certificate good for
LMB bicycle tours or merchandise, one-year
LMB membership, and other LMB swag. The 2nd and 3rd place winners will also receive prize packages. All winning images will be printed in
the Michigan Ride Calendar, the Michigan Bicyclist Magazine, and/or other LMB publications.

For full contest rules, prizes, and instructions, go to LMB.org/photocontest.

CALLING ALL WRITERS

Long Process continued form page 3
the local bicycle club, the Adrian Maple Wheelers, Elliott
sees bicycling gaining in popularity in the Adrian area and
that it is more important than ever for road users to be
cautious on public roads.
Weve got to work together. Weve got to share these roads
that belong to everyone, Elliott said. Theyre shared roads
and we all need to work together for the betterment of our
community and the safety of all of us.
LMB is looking for cyclists who also have
a passion for writing to volunteer as a
Contributing Writer in the Michigan Bicyclist
Magazine. Authors will be given guidelines and a
deadline for their stories, but may choose their
own topic. Writers may also volunteer their time
on an assigned project.
Those interested can contact Aneta Kiersnowski
via email: aneta@LMB.org.

10
 Thank You to Our Donors!
LMB Benefactors - $1,000 + Clifford Miller* Lawrence & Deborah Dudek*
Dennis Pace & Anne Grofvert* George & Melanie Moses* Bill & Nancy Duemling*
Steven & Leslie Roach* Thomas Owens* Nick Durrie
Michael Sproul* Third Coast Cycling ** BikeMich **
Nathalie Winans *** Paul Rehkopf* Bill & Jeannette Erickson*
Cherry Capital Cycling Club ** Luisa Schumacher-Resto* Bradley Eshbaugh*
Kisscross Events ** Michael Sheean* Phillip Farber
AAA Michigan Michael Unsworth* Bill Frey*
Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society ** Steven & Connie Vorenkamp Kris Gaumer
Briggs Colegrove, P.C.* Ginger Virkler* Allen Gelderloos
Clinton River Riders Bicycle Club ** Al's Quick Release Bicycle Sales & Service* June Grabemeyer ***
Makulinski Family Foundation* Solarbos, Inc.* Judy Gruner*
The Mosaic Foundation* Cycle Safe, Inc.* Patrick Harrington*
Sinas Dramis Law Firm/Bryan Waldman* Rotary Club of Northville ** Thomas (TJ) Hill*
Tri-County Bicycle Association Heart Smart Events, LLC ** PEAC **
Rock 'n' Road Cycle* Marble Parent Council
Platinum Level - $500 to $999 Ultimate Cycle Challenge ** Ann Hunt*
Gary Berk Bell's Brewery, Inc. ** Kerry Irons*
Hugh Garton* Downriver Cycling Club ** Anne Johnson*
Dan Kent Marilyn Kamp*
PALM, Inc. ** Silver Level - $100-$249 David Kepler
John Lindenmayer* Dick Allen* Doug Kirk*
Vic Lukasavitz* Paula Anderson* Steve Kofflin*
Timothy Oberle* Doug Arenberg* Bob Kollar*
Lenny Provencher Debbie Bacal* James Kovacik
Anne Readett* Steve Barnaby Cynthia Krupp*
Paul Selden* David Barnas* Phillip Kurrle*
Jackie Young* Teri Batton* John Lark*
The Greenway Collaborative* Joan Bauer Al & Denise Lauland*
Genesee Wanderers Bicycle Club ** David Baute* Dan Lonowski*
American Cycle & Fitness *** Syd Baxter* Robert Madsen*
Climate Ride* Brian Beauchamp* Kevin Magin*
Primal Wear Karen Beauregard* Michael Marcincuk
Wayne State University ** John Begin* Gerard Martin
Meredith Begin* Colin Mayers*
Gold Level $250 to $499 Mark Bissell Suzy McCain ***
Carol Bray* Albert Bordine* Kevin & Cynthia McCurren*
Albert Cattell* Eric Bouwens* Brian McGrain*
Amy Duggan* Jim Carpenter* Paul Medley
Michael Ehr* Ed Carrigan* Thomas & Deborah Miller*
Karl Fava* Christine Causley* Kristi Miller
Judith Finneren* Riley Combs* Rich & Kristy Moeller*
Shannon Gleason* Loose Spokes, Inc. ** Wes Nichols*
Mark Hall* Don & Nancy Culbertson* Lisa Nuszkowski*
Slow Spokes Bicycle Club ** Sam Davis Bob Otwell*
Roger Hoffman* Barbara Derian* Sarah Panken*
Sue Kropscott* Ken & Becky DesArmo* Southern Lakes Parks & Recreation **
Richard & Julie Lapinski* Lindsey DesArmo* James Pfander
Mary & John Lindenmayer* Wendell Dilling* James Pike

11 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016

*2015 Year-End Appeal Donor ** $1 Per Rider Event Sponsor *** In-Kind Donations
 Donations from October 1st, 2015 to November 21st, 2016
Bike Tour Vacations, LLC ** Brian Baer* Bill & Sherri McConnell*
Mark Redman Denise Banyai Bonnie Michalak
Robert Robertson* Thomas Baumann* Patrick Mier*
Ben Saint-Onge*** Peter Bowen* Dave Mordis*
Rob Pulcipher* Stephen Brown Dennis Murphy*
Ty Schmidt* Robert Burslem* Joan Nelson*
Bob Schuelke* Sheila Byrne* Stephanie O'Brien*
Big Bear Sportsmans Club ** Brian & Pat Cahalan* John Palmer*
Constance Shaub* Cathleen Cannon* John Pierce*
Gary Siler* Philip Caruso* Nancy Pomeraning*
David Smale* Deborah Compeau* Jeanne Powers*
Craig Smith* Ron Coon John Renkema*
Ron Sollish* Dena Cukr Richard & Lisa Robinson*
Luanne St. Peter* Chuck Cigrand* Karen Ross*
Karen Stearns* Michael Darga* Bill Savage*
John Syslo Ingrid Davis* Barbara Schmid*
Robert Thomas* Margaret Dekoyer-Watson Kevin Schumacher
Matt Thompson* Mike Dombroski* Gordon Seiler
Toni Thompson* Frank Eaman* Grace Singleton*
Thomas Tisue* Janet Emmons* David Smith*
Maumee Valley Adventurers ** Suzanne Erbes Max Stafford*
Marco Verzocchi* Jonathan Frank Flint Stuart*
Larry Warbasse* Mike Franskoviak Jim Sunstrum*
Margaret Ward* Gretchen Gabler* Alison Tansey
Douglas Warren* Lisa & Mike Hamm Robert Thayer
Thomas & Paulette Wayne* Friends of Fred Meijer Heartland Trail ** Michele Tice
Ron Zeeb* Richard Helling* David Tindall*
P&T Fitness ** Sharon & George Hermach* Randy Valko
Richard Williams Edward & Virginia Hessler* Donald Van Suilichem*
M. Roy Wilson* Malcolm Hickok* Jim Winter-Troutwine*
Diana Yount* Michael Hinterman PEAC
Gannett Foundation Patrick Hudson* West Michigan Coast Riders **
Maumee Valley Adventurers Beryl Hugen Algonac Lions Club **
Michigan Human Powered Vehicle Assoc.* Mark Jacobs Bicycle Village
Millenium Auto Wash Inc.* James Jeske* Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County **
MRA Psychiatrics, PC* Robert Kennedy Give Back Foundation*
Cascades Cycling Club* Aneta Kiersnowski Fallasburg Historical Society **
Friends of the Musketawa Trail ** Rosalie Koenig Habitat for Humanity Montcalm County **
Friends of the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail, Inc. ** James & Lenore Kolhoff*
Fleis & Vandenbrink* Kirby Koriath Copper Level - $1 to $49
Miller Recruiting Services, LLC* Lorna Koscielny* Barb Appledorn*
Detroit Randonneurs ** Nancy Krupiarz* Susan Bailo*
Benzie Sunrise Rotary Club ** Patricia Langeland Robert & Johanne Balwinski*
Grayling Rotary Club ** James Lee Tom Batchelor*
Cascades Cycling Club ** Steven Leiby* Carol Beard
Robert Lovell Shari Bence
Bronze Level - $50 to $99 Georgia Makens*
Dale Abbott* Leonard Marszalek
Maggie Ardito Stephen Martina* Continued on Next Page

12
Robert Berard* Keith Hudson* Robert Schwarz
James Bergman Lori Huver Thomas Shuster
Ellie Bergman* Chuck Jager* Stan Simek
Pete Bosheff Owen & Jane Jansson* Dallas Simpson*
Steve Brostek Patricia Johns* Arthur Slabosky
Bob Bruttell* Cynthia Kadzban* Dawn Sloan*
Steve Brown* Karen Kalk* Susan Smith*
James Bruckbauer* Sue Karschnick Daniel Sommerville*
Nancy Burghardt Paul Kelly Doug Spence
Joseph Calcaterra Karen Kligman* Shelley Spivack*
Lisa Campbell* Gordon Knight Lisa Stack
Dennis Carlson* Philip Knowles Karen Stearns
Douglas Carvell* Wayne Koppa* Hillary Taylor
Roger Caylor Joseh Krier Anthony Thaxton*
David Chapin* Michael LaCharite John Thomas*
Patricia Cheal* Walter Lohmann John Torongo
Lori Childs* Patty Mackey Liz Treutel*
Brian Clark Joanne Mahoney Brooks Twist
Mary Clulo Rosalie Mancier* Karen Van Oss
Susan Cockerill Chuck May Nancy Vanderkolk*
John Crowe Michael McDaniel Auburn Williams Lions Club **
Allison Cummings David Medema J Walter
James Dake David Miller Jo Ann Wassenaar*
Bill Danly Michael Mironiuk* Philip Wells*
Jessica Deforest Renee Mitchell Arlene Willmann*
Margaret Doetsch* Ronald Mosher* Randy Winchester
Joseph Dragun Dean & Kat Musgrave* Michael Woizeschke*
George Dykstra* David Nall* John Wood*
Rod Ebrite David Naumes* William Wright*
Scott Edick Jack Noppe David Yonkovit
Edward Elliott James O'Donnell* Elias Zamaria
Scott Elliott* Kalamazoo Bicycle Club ** Joerg Zeller
David Fejedelem* James Paschal Assenmacher Cycles
Meg Finerty Brian Pawlik Bauer-Ford Reclamation
Dennis Francisco Joseph Pergande* Oscoda United Methodist Youth Group **
Caitlin Frederick John Person Boston Square Community Bikes*
Marilyn Freeman Phillip Peterson Camp Michawana **
Peggy Gerou-Betz Gerrit Pols* Chalfonte Foundation & Michigan Donor
Carl Gildner* Hank Post* Family Council **
Mike Goeddeke Christine Redmond Pedal Bicycles
Thom Goodyke Kate Remlinger* Shiawassee Arts Council **
Gaston Gosselin Debbie Richards Washtenaw Bicycling & Walking Coalition
Jennifer Grau* Christina Riddle* Capital Area United Way
Robert Greene* Curt Roelofs*
Tim Greenhoot Wilfredo Romero
Klaus Gross-Galindo Michael Roon LMB is thankful for every one of our generous
Kelly Guswiler Jim Rossow* donors and aims to make this list as complete
Mark Hagar Patti Ruggiero and accurate as possible. LMB also would like
Lisa Hebb* Tim Saari to thank the dozens of donors who collec-
Robert Herbst Gene Sawdon tively gave over $2,000 anonymously. If any
Nazih Hijaouy* Jacobus Schoonveld errors, omissions, or other corrections to this
Robert Howard Chad Schreur* list are needed, please contact the LMB office.

13 MICHIGAN BICYCLIST | FALL 2016

 Memorial Gifts Membership/Donations
Annual Memberships q New qRenewal
qIndividual/Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30
In Honor of All Victims of the Loren Simons
qOrganization/Club/Shop/Industry . . . . . . . . . $60
Kalamazoo Cycling Tragedy of June 7, Jacob Stahl qLifetime-Individual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $450
2016 John Stanek (3-Pay Plan - $170/yr)
Paul Eddleston Jon & Magel Strong qLifetime-Organization/
Club/Shop/Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1000
Todd Troutman (3-Pay Plan - $350/yr)
In Memory of Michael Ayers Ray & Janel Van Arragon
Larry & Julie Ayers Bryan Waldman PROMO CODE
Kristin Bergan Keri White Donations (tax deductible)
Marietta Driscoll Jack & Heather Zadigian q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500
Joan Hollar CFT-Sinas Drama Cycling Team q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250
Anita Mills Sinas Dramis Law/Bryan Waldman q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125
Nancy Sudia Faith Wesleyan Church q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $75
qOther . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Teresa & John Vandersloot
Thomas Wallis In Memory of Michael C. Vargo Name
Michael Vargo, Jr.
In Memory of Ralph Finnerin Contact (for Shop/Club/Org//Ind)
John Stephens In Memory of Harold E. Ward
Margaret Ward Address

In Memory of Tony Nelson

City State Zip
Don Tinson In Honor of Scott Elliott
Robert & Johanne Balwinski
Phone
In Memory of Eric Snider, Jr. Dan Compeau
Eric & Julie Anderson Norman Cox E-mail
Karn Brynildson Brian Gilchrist
Erin Buitendorp James Jeske Website
Bill Chapman Ellen Muehlberger
Join, renew, or donate by check or credit card today!
Mary Cusack Thomas Owens
qVisa
Michelle Detering Peggy Penny qMasterCard Please make checks
Jim & Marilyn Dingman Christine Redmond payable to:
qDiscover
League of Michigan Bicyclists
Susan Grettenberger Kate Remlinger q American Express
Dedria Humphries Charlie Stelzer
Name on Card
Nan Jackson Dan Stockwell
Dave Komives Cindy Urquhart Card #
Linda Koning Comfy Campers, LLC
Mary Laatsch Additional Anonymous Donors Card Address (q Same as Above )
Steven Leiby
Chelsea Matchett In Honor of Scott Elliott & the Expiration Date (mm/yy)
Alan & Jayne Mathews Kalamazoo Victims
Signature
Kim Metzer Cindy Urquhart
Karen Murphy q Im interested in writing for Michigan Bicyclist
Rick Oberle In Honor of Joseph, Samuel & Magazine.
Bob & Lynda Ohman Penelope Riegling
Elaine Pogoncheff Ryan Riegling Membership Total
Sean Quinn Additional Donation Total
Paul Reasoner
Bill and Molly Schmidt
Grand Total $
Sara Shady

14
 MICHIGAN NON-PROFIT ORG

BICYCLIST
US POSTAGE PAID
LANSING MI
PERMIT #979
416 S. Cedar St. Suite A, Lansing, MI 48912
LeagueofMichiganBicyclists
@MIBicyclists

Dated Material: December 2016

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15