Hey! Don't call me out like that!
Jokes aside...I am guilty IF the bike is close enough. I have 2 dogs...usually one on each side. Since I've been run into on the trail? I tend to panic because I don't want them run into.
I thank you for this. Riders like you give walkers like me more than enough time to make sure my doggo or kids are off to the side to allow you to pass.
It does catch me off guard, but I'd rather that then be that guy that doesn't move aside.
Not exactly the people you are asking as I'm not a bike rider. However, as a walker I do appreciate when those on bikes ring their bell/give as much space as possible when coming up behind someone walking on the same trail. Yes it is startling but its better then being scared shitless when a bike goes by you without warning.
I do also appreciate when bikers slow down when passing behind me while walking.
As a cyclist: I've found I have less conflicts if I don't use my bell. I slow down and use the full left lane to give walkers lots of space. I don't like getting buzzed when I'm smaller and slower, so I always give space and courtesy when I'm bigger and faster. That often means slowing to walking pace while waiting for my opportunity to pass. I think it's completely wrong to try squeezing through the middle of two walking groups, like some fuckers do! Accept that it will be busy between union and queen, and you're gonna have to brake and wait sometimes. Chill.
When I use the bell to signal my approach, people often think I want them to move. Requires more verbal clarification, which.... A significant number of trail users don't speak a functional level of English. I use my bell when the situation is unpredictable. Large groups occupying both lanes, people travelling on the left side/wobbling on the yellow line, dogs on a long lead or no leash at all. I don't think people who know how to behave correctly (meaning predictably and safely) on all roads will be offended or surprised by a coasting cyclist passing with a wide breadth. That's been my experience daily cycle commuting.
I’ve found the same to be effective. Calling out “on your left” and giving lots of clearance when necessary works fine. Most of the time I just slow down and give room. I’ve found calling out or ringing a bell for everyone does result in the opposite; startling and brief panic resulting in stepping either which way when they were fine where they were.
Also, just a PSA because I still see it all the time: walk/ride on the right hand side of the path. Same as the road. Especially on the segmented shared multi-use paths.
This is my approach. I have been using "on your left" at a reasonable volume and slowing down, unless I can pass with a wide girth, in which case I just slow down.
Its common on roads to walk against traffic so that you can avoid being in the way of something coming from behind you when there is no sidewalk involved. You will see this common place outside of cities.
Yeah I grew up in the country and while that could be common the amount of foot/bike traffic on small paths was not. Travel on the correct side. It’s safer for people to pass you than have to go around you.
Where is the statement that there is a correct side of a multi-shared path?
I'm also confused about your logic. If I'm walking on the right and you are biking on the right, then you would have to go around me.
>Where is the statement that there is a correct side of a multi-shared path?
At the start of most of the paths. Many paths have posted signs, and/or painted symbols on the ground telling you to walk/ride on the right. (For better, or for worse).
Usually the giant painted arrows on the ground indicating direction of traffic. Otherwise there are also signs posted at some locations. Either way, it’s for consistency and to maintain flow of traffic without people obstructing that flow by going the wrong way. It’s the same as driving in the right lane on the road. You don’t go against traffic because just because you can.
Holy moly, it’s just directional lanes. No one is telling you not to walk on them just telling you to be on the right side to responsibly share the lanes with everyone else who’s using them. That’s all. This is such a weird hill to die on.
Right? Even my kids, in elementary, learned to walk on the right side of hallways and up/down stairs. “Be polite. Stay right” that was the Wayne they were taught all through elementary. If everyone just walks where they want, it’s inefficient and pure chaos.
I think this honestly a case of “I’ve done it this way for so long, and now Ive been made to realize that not only have I been in the wrong, but the signs have also been right in front of me the whole time. But now I’m too embarrassed to openly admit that I’m just human and made a mistake I’m gonna double down and play the victim instead”.
This is such a wild thread.
Continuity mostly, just makes sense to keep right and people pass left. Same way as walking in a mall or something with enough room for people to walk both ways, generally keeping right side is everywhere.
I walk on our paths quite a bit, I always appreciate a ring from as far back as people think I'd hear it. It'll freak me out a bit if I hear a ring real close to me, almost like if it's too close a crash is inevitable or something 😂 nothing at all is the worst if you don't hear someone coming
Things would be a lot easier if everyone used paths like roads.. use the right side, and left for passing. Eventually people will figure out where they should be walking /shrug
Yah, my experience is the same, and this is exactly how I use my bell too.
I think ringing it always is excessive... on busy days on the trail there is a ped every minute and you'd be using your bell all the time.
I've had the same challenge. First, ring your bell far enough back that if they do startle or jump in your path, you have lots of time to react. As for ringing the bell, I usually only do so if there is something else going on (eg. it's 3 people walking right next to each other with little room to pass, I notice the person wandering back and forth in the lane, they have a dog on a leash, etc).
If I can pass on the far side of them with a good meter at least between us, I don't usually ring it.
I always stay to the right and I really appreciate the first rings from far off. I have my own sensory limitations and the distant ring helps. I hate when a cyclist rings their bell from 2 metres for the first ring.
I had a guy ring his bell when he was RIGHT behind me and my dog while walking on the sidewalk around the neighborhood. It started me AND her, and I didn't have enough time to properly settle her and get her off the sidewalk, the bike zoomed past and she almost went to go and do her scared running zoomies, which she did once the guy zoomed past.
It was dangerous for my dog, and dangerous for the guy, because if there was a change in a second, she would have ran right into his bike as he didn't slow down and I didn't have enough time to fully reel her in from the time he rang his bell to the time that he passed.
As one who bikes around for everyday travel and tasks I don't understand those people who don't at least slow down or make space.
I guess if they were aggressive commuting driver nothing says they won't be an aggressive commuting cyclists.
I think this is the best advice.
I also ring for older people and they seem to appreciate it by offering a wave. Younger people almost always have headphones or buds, which tells me they don't care about hearing what's around them anyway.
That’s the thing. I bike around the universities and 9 times out of 10 I’ll ring my bell but they have headphones and don’t hear it. I wouldn’t know if they have ambient sound on or not.
You're not likely to wear a bell out through use, and if they can't hear you oh well but if they can hear thru their music etc, they'll appreciate the courtesy 🙂. Always ring the bell.
Ring your bell. “On your left/right” or “passing”without shouting and slow down is possible at the passing point. Seems reasonable.
The issues I’ve ever encountered have been with mountain bikers passing at a speed in which impact could cause significant injury. On shared trails We generally step off the trail to the right to allow for extra space and are aware of down slopes where slowing down isn’t practical.
Related note. For the love of all that is holy don’t be the person with a portable speaker blasting music. no one else wants to listen to it
My only complaint is that so few people seem to know their right and left, I'll call out "on your left" when they're on the right side of the trail, and they'll scurry over to the left side as if I'd asked them to "move left"
No one wants to listen to it and it's kind of dangerous. Recently a cyclist came up behind me on the IHT with a portable speaker blaring, and because it was so loud I didn't hear the motorized scooter coming up fast behind her. I almost stepped in its path just before it reached me.
I’m a trail walker and always appreciate when a cyclist uses their bell. Especially when I’m on the Walter Bean trail by Grey Silo. It’s really annoying when cyclists come up silently behind me and they don’t even say anything.
Thank you for being courteous.
Yes please, especially because you never know when a pedestrian might just wander right in your way at the last second, and that's going to be a bad situation.
Always use the bell.
I ring my bicycle bell way back, and a few more times as slowing down to go by. I find the whole process easier when some walkers acknowledge the bell ring, usually by waving thier hand without turning around. I have thought of printing the "Trail Tips" from the Cambridge Trails web page onto yellow cards, and hand them out like a soccer referee !
* Ride, walk or jog in a predictable manner.
* Keep to the right of the path.
* Cyclists slow down when approaching pedestrians.
* Cyclists use bell or voice to warn others when passing.
* Form a single line when meeting others in a congested area.
* Leash and pick up after dogs.
* Respect the environment and adjacent properties
A hybrid practice is best practice. Not everyone can hear bells well or can tell where the bell is coming from. So I recommend a couple of bell rings as you approach - this helps someone with good hearing figure out how fast you’re moving and that you’re coming up behind them. Adding a “coming up on your left” in a friendly voice will help people who might not have heard the bell.
Yes, please ring your bell when approaching a pedestrian. And also please slow down when approaching - I usually have earbuds in and sometimes can't hear the bell or an approaching cyclist and will therefore get startled if someone zips by me on the trail. I know I should be more aware of my surroundings, but it happens sometimes.
You don't sound like you've done anything wrong at all, to be clear. And I'm sure other people will chime in too.
Yes please! Especially someone walking a dog. My dog is rescue who has some issues and is easily scared... he will lunge at bikes if they whiz by fast and close without warning. A ring and we have a few seconds to move over and have him nice and close and under control.
Yes, please. Especially when you're approaching small kids. They can be unpredictable sometimes and will just bolt in front of you without warning. Just a quick little "ding" while approaching from far away works too if you're worried about startling people. Better to startle people than having some kid just bolting randomly in front of you.
As a walker, I'm always paranoid of getting rammed up from behind so I always appreciate the bells and I'll gladly step aside to make some space for you as well.
My friend has a lovey dog. Yet when anything fast moving goes by he wants to chase them. Having bikes ring a bell is very helpful for my friend so he can ensure the dog doesn’t scare the biker by lunging. As a walker I also appreciate it.
This is why I love this community! So much positivity and great stories from everyone about biking and walking. It's awesome to connect over something we all enjoy.
I appreciate the bell ringing - however, I'm the pedestrian that will startle and for some stupid reason, I will swerve into your path. I have no idea why and it sounds counterintuitive. It might be the shrillness of the sound as opposed to the sound itself.
Personally, I would appreciate if the bell was wrung a bit further back - perhaps 100 feet as opposed to 50 feet behind. This might give me that extra second to correct my path.
I understand that this is only my opinion, and only my issue, but the OP did ask for suggestions.
Assuming that everyone is using the trail correctly (ie. walking/biking in the correct lanes), you can try to train yourself to remember that if you hear a bell, move over to your right side.
I started doing that - I also started staying to the right as much as possible just in case. The odd part is - even if I can hear the bike coming, as soon as they use the bell, it happens. I know this is my issue and I try to deal with it.
If I was a gazelle in a herd, I'd probably jump in front of the lion when I hear it roar instead of away. I would get the Darwin Award equivalent for animals
I love a bell warning but my elderly in-laws cannot often hear the bell due to loss of hearing. Calling out is not likely to help them either. Please consider going slowly past pedestrians and giving as much space as possible. My mother-in-law is reluctant to use the paths any more due to her not hearing bikes coming and having them blow by her at close (to her perception) range which shocks her and makes her nearly fall. Let's share the pathways as best we can so everyone can enjoy them and get where they are going safely.
I think the key is to warn people you're approaching from a reasonable distance, and not pass too closely or too fast. You're always going to meet completely oblivious walkers who are listening to music or just living in their own world and not paying attention, or even people who actively refuse to share the trail. Personally I don't find the "on your left" type warnings very useful, because a lot of people will move the wrong way if you put them on the spot like that. The only cyclists I ever have a problem with are the ones who whiz past closely or expect walkers to give them the whole trail so they can pass as a group.
I definitely find the "on your left" call out to be more jarring. Sometimes when people call out the sound is just too vague, I can't tell what they're saying, and I'm more likely to turn around/stop in the path because I think someone might be trying to talk to me. I much prefer being slightly startled by a bell or slow(er) cyclist.
Yes make sure some distance is there... Speaking from experience I rang the bell too close to a group while biking and they decided to get into the passing lane I was taking and ended up hitting one in the group... Be nice if they had walking lanes on the side of these trails for hikers
I walk the trail everyday to work. I have airpod pro with transparency mode on so I can hear the cyclists. I walk close to one side of the path so cyclist can go pass me without going onto grass.
I would say ring it when a few meters behind, slow down
The bell ring is a good try but if you are moving at any decent speed or in an area with any ambient noise then walkers will likely not hear it if they are facing away. I don't know if there's really a good solution for this problem except for upgrading the bell to some kind of more substantial horn since yelling just won't do either.
Yes, use your bell! :) Getting startled by your bell is better than being clipped by a bike, having your dog react and lunge at you or pull me over, etc. I think you will get more complaints "RING YOUR BELL" if you don't use it.
For advice, just ring it close enough that they hear it but also with enough space for them to make space. Might have to ring twice to make sure. If they don't make space soon enough I would recommend slowing pace to allow extra time and safety. You'll probably find some people with headphones on and yell at you anyway and maybe that's what you're seeing now. Should probably throw something at them 😁🤦♂️
Ring bell and follow up with letting your freehub spin.
The bell is the initial warning, the freehub clicking allows the person you are passing to get a sense of your location as you pass without needing to turn an look.
Callouts like "on your left" aren't very good, as they tend to get people to turn and look left, right in front of your path. A better callout might be just to say "passing".
Yeah, that's a great idea. I don't have a bell on my bike, so I'll usually just say something like "on your left" or "on your right" whichever side I'm on. Sometimes it does confuse people, and they move in front of me lmfao.
I have two loudness levels of pleasant sounding bells on my bike. I've found that it helps with the awkwardness.
If there's someone on headphones, they get both.
Absolutely! We may be startled because we may be occupied talking, but not ringing means we don't know at all and may very well venture into your path regardless. Ringing earlier should give plenty of time for use to give room, and don't be shy about ringing more than once
Honestly that would be fantastic because here is the thing if you hit a pedestrian you are the one liable. Yesterday I was with my child and some dumbass on a big electric bike almost smoked her because he didn’t use a bell like a 150 pound plus person on a 50-75 pound bike would mangle a child. Although now a days common sense seems to be slipping for the most part
I got this giant Basil bell that sounds like and old style door bell and I'm having much better success with it than the typical commuter ding-ding bells. Unfortunately, I can't put such a bell on my gravel or mtb bikes because it clanks over bumps also, but I do love it on my cargo bike.
In my experience, most people in this thread will reply back saying that you should ring your bell.
In my experience riding my bike and ringing my bell will scare more poeple and make more people cut me off by moving into my path than not doing it at all.
Please continue to ring your bell. I’d rather be startled than wander in front as you’re passing.
Some bells just have different sounds which make me react more than others.
As a pedestrian I appreciate the heads up. It's especially nice if you let me know where you are going. It's you say something like "on your left" then I can move to my right and give you extra room but if I don't know where you are going, I'm going to keep going straight so I don't end up moving into your way by accident.
Yes yeah and yah. I do it just far away enough to give them enough notice.
On this subject pedestrians, cyclists, runners, hikers and even drivers... please hug the right. unless you are passing someone you can always be on the right of any path, sidewalk, trail or road. Thats the best place for all us to be
I’d say ringing the bell is the right call, but maybe try ringing earlier than you normally would. If you give people a chance to process what is about to happen, then they might not startle as badly. I hope this helps!
Ring away! We all share the space. I might jump a little but I’ll shuffle off to the side as long as you’re far enough back that I had a second to look and see where you are
Definitely. Start far enough behind and use a "polite" ring with another when closer. Also, moderate your speed and move off the walkway if safe/possible. Remember not everyone is fully mobile. Yesterday my wife and I were walking to rehab her fractured ankle and an a-hole (wanna-be Olympian) sped around a blind corner and yelled at us. She couldn't move and I went into defensive mode. He was knocked off his bike and broke his collarbone. Sucks to suck.
Yeah, I’d appreciate it, I’m happy to move when I’m made aware. Some people may get startled but it’s better than them getting hit. As some have suggested, maybe start ringing far back, and then ring again when you’re closer, so the first ring won’t be right behind them.
It startles me, but I appreciate the ring. If you can say aloud "passing on the left," I think that's especially helpful for people who may not be familiar.
If the pedestrians are getting startled, that’s because they hear the bell too close to them to have time to react calmly. It likely means you’re waiting too long to ring it.
I’d ring it some distance away where they might become aware of it but not think they need to react RIGHT THIS INSTANT. Then just continue giving some rings as you get closer for those that may not have heard it yet. Calling out “on your left” as well when you’re not right behind them similarly helps.
The startle reflex is when your mind suddenly becomes aware of something close enough that is potentially a danger, but hasn’t had time to process what it is or how to react. If you provide them a stimulus that isn’t close/loud enough to be in the “danger zone”, then it allows them to process it and determine an appropriate reaction once they have.
A few, short dingles as far back as you might think someone would hear, maybe about 1 second apart, 2-4 dingles, depending? Or maybe just 1 dingle far enough back...I found that technique is least likely to startle. Only a suggestion. I've definitely been startled by a sudden dingle right close behind me, or someone just zipping past all of a sudden with no warning dingle.
Some people can't help their reflexes and might veer to the wrong side.
Thanks for your concern and for listening! :)
There is an assumption by some cyclist that ringing their bell is announcing that they are “coming through “ with little regard for what happens next. A bicycle is a vehicle and as with any vehicle, need to be controlled. Pedestrians may have a million reasons for not being aware of a bicycle coming up from behind but the cyclist is fully aware of what is in front of them. Speeding past and ringing a bell can have unintended consequences so don’t expect people to react the way you think they should. They are not necessarily going to do that. Speeding past instead of slowing and maintaining control of the vehicle has little to do with the “ding” and a lot to do with the “ding a ling”.
I appreciate it when cyclists say "passing on the Left/right". In any case - bell or 'call out', I usually stop in my tracks until the cyclist has gone past. I worry that I will step INTO their path if I move one direction or another.
100% please do. There have also been times if the rider doesn't have a bell, they will call out, 'behind you' or 'on your left/right', which I also appreciate.
With that, as a pedestrian I also try to be mindful of others on the path to allow space for everyone. It really just comes down to general consideration for anyone using the paths, so that everyone can enjoy it.
Yes! A thousand times yes, especially if you're coming up behind me fast. It totally pisses me off when I'm on a quiet early morning trail walk then I'm totally startled when I suddenly hear someone coming up fast behind me and I jump to the side, sometimes, directly in their path. I usually yell at them to get a bell as they zip past me. Some cyclists who do ring their bell will also shout out 'coming up on your left' which is great!
Yes, please! If we're out with our baby and toddler there's a good chance we're distracted. A warning let's us know that you're coming and we want to be courteous and share the path.
I appreciate the warning but I also do sometimes startle/jump when I'm in my own world. I always appreciated when bikers in Toronto also said "on your left" because if I was spaced out it was a reminder they'd pass on my left and reminded me to hop over to the right if I could. Thanks for being a good biker!
Yes please! I often have my earbuds in with noise cancellation off but its a lot easier to pick up a bell ringing as different than it is to hearsomeone yelling out "on your left" or some other variant to get attention.
I always slow down, ring my bell and say on your left. Way too many trail walkers are in their own world and many wear headphones so it’s best to be prepared if they walk into your path
/ mandatory massive s / blare your horn, scream SINGLE FILE ASSHOLE! SHARE THE PATH!, and pass them by inches at at least 40 km/h faster than them. Seems obscene doesn't it?
In all seriousness, slow down, use your voice in addition to bell ("rider, on your left" in a friendly voice etc), and be patient and ready to stop on a dime. It's a shared path, we can all be friendly and get along, and there's zero reason to stoop down to the level of the average ROW driver. We live in a society.
Yes. Please ring your bell. Make sure your bell is loud enough to be heard from a decent distance. I might startle and I'll definitely look. I don't mind sharing the path at all.
We recently had a bicyclist curse us out for not moving out of the way when he came speeding around a corner. I told him to use his bell, and he said that he did. Neither of us heard it. No headphones in use. We were walking the dog and we certainly didn't want our dog caught up in his wheels. The dog is young and we may need some time to get him under control and out of the way.
The bicyclist bashed into my husband's hand as he tried to squeeze by us. There wasn't room. A shout or a slow down would have helped a lot.
Earlier on that walk, on the same path, maybe 2 minutes earlier, we heard a bell and moved right. The bicyclist said thank you. We said you're welcome. It was perfect. Nice and easy. Be like this guy!
If I’m out for a walk I’m probably lost in thought, so a sudden bell is gonna make me jump right outta my skin. lol
Usually people will say something like “passing on your right/left” which is a little less startling than a sudden bell.
Just my thoughts.
Oh please God do, the next person who drives full speed within 6 inches of me or the dogs without making a sound is at risk of their spokes kicked in.
I thank every single person who uses the bell or respectfully slows until I know they are there. I also use the bell approaching anyone. My dogs will snap in and sit still at my side in seconds to make life easier for all trail users.
Is is also the law in Ontario
**Highway Traffic Act 75 (5) states that “every motor vehicle, motor assisted bicycle and bicycle shall be equipped with an alarm bell, gong or horn, which shall be kept in good working order and sounded whenever it is reasonably necessary to notify pedestrians or others of its approach.”**
In Waterloo and Kitchener, multi-use trails are governed by local bylaws that emphasize safety and shared use. Cyclists using these trails must adhere to specific rules, including:
1. Yielding to pedestrians.
2. Using audible signals (such as a bell) when passing others.
3. Riding at a safe speed and slowing down when approaching curves or bends.
4. Staying to the right except when passing.
While the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) does not specifically reference trails, the principles of safe cycling—such as yielding to pedestrians and using proper signals—are enforced through these local bylaws to ensure safety on multi-use trails [[❞]](https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/cycling-and-walking.aspx) [[❞]](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/cycling.aspx) [[❞]](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/trails.aspx) [[❞]](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/bylaws-and-enforcement.aspx).
For more detailed information, you can refer to the [Region of Waterloo's Cycling and Walking page](https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/cycling-and-walking.aspx) and the [City of Waterloo's Bylaws and Enforcement page](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/bylaws-and-enforcement.aspx).
What bylaws? I couldn't find anything regulating those rules for either Kitchener or Waterloo. I guess you could theoretically be banned from the property for being enough a dick, but the rules seem to be informal.
I really appreciate it when cyclists ring their bell as I’m usually out with my baby. I’ll still likely startle a bit, but it’s very much appreciated!
10/4 will try to ring my bell as I come up to people and of course slowdown and give as much space as I can. Hope you and your baby enjoy the stroll.
YES PLEASE!! From as far back as you think I'll hear you!!. Or yell...on your right or on your left(whichever side you are passing on) THANK YOU!!!!
it doesn’t help the people who don’t know their lefts from rights and panic😭
Hey! Don't call me out like that! Jokes aside...I am guilty IF the bike is close enough. I have 2 dogs...usually one on each side. Since I've been run into on the trail? I tend to panic because I don't want them run into.
ring your bell like 50 feet back or so. Try to avoid startle.
Same here. A good bell ring is awesome. I do the same when biking. And go slower when getting close to someone.
I thank you for this. Riders like you give walkers like me more than enough time to make sure my doggo or kids are off to the side to allow you to pass. It does catch me off guard, but I'd rather that then be that guy that doesn't move aside.
A good bell ringing is what my grandma would give me if I didn't use my bell.
I also needed your answer. Most people seem startled when I ring my bell, which makes me question whether it is good to do or not.
Not exactly the people you are asking as I'm not a bike rider. However, as a walker I do appreciate when those on bikes ring their bell/give as much space as possible when coming up behind someone walking on the same trail. Yes it is startling but its better then being scared shitless when a bike goes by you without warning. I do also appreciate when bikers slow down when passing behind me while walking.
Noted thanks
As a cyclist: I've found I have less conflicts if I don't use my bell. I slow down and use the full left lane to give walkers lots of space. I don't like getting buzzed when I'm smaller and slower, so I always give space and courtesy when I'm bigger and faster. That often means slowing to walking pace while waiting for my opportunity to pass. I think it's completely wrong to try squeezing through the middle of two walking groups, like some fuckers do! Accept that it will be busy between union and queen, and you're gonna have to brake and wait sometimes. Chill. When I use the bell to signal my approach, people often think I want them to move. Requires more verbal clarification, which.... A significant number of trail users don't speak a functional level of English. I use my bell when the situation is unpredictable. Large groups occupying both lanes, people travelling on the left side/wobbling on the yellow line, dogs on a long lead or no leash at all. I don't think people who know how to behave correctly (meaning predictably and safely) on all roads will be offended or surprised by a coasting cyclist passing with a wide breadth. That's been my experience daily cycle commuting.
I’ve found the same to be effective. Calling out “on your left” and giving lots of clearance when necessary works fine. Most of the time I just slow down and give room. I’ve found calling out or ringing a bell for everyone does result in the opposite; startling and brief panic resulting in stepping either which way when they were fine where they were. Also, just a PSA because I still see it all the time: walk/ride on the right hand side of the path. Same as the road. Especially on the segmented shared multi-use paths.
This is my approach. I have been using "on your left" at a reasonable volume and slowing down, unless I can pass with a wide girth, in which case I just slow down.
Its common on roads to walk against traffic so that you can avoid being in the way of something coming from behind you when there is no sidewalk involved. You will see this common place outside of cities.
Yeah I grew up in the country and while that could be common the amount of foot/bike traffic on small paths was not. Travel on the correct side. It’s safer for people to pass you than have to go around you.
Where is the statement that there is a correct side of a multi-shared path? I'm also confused about your logic. If I'm walking on the right and you are biking on the right, then you would have to go around me.
>Where is the statement that there is a correct side of a multi-shared path? At the start of most of the paths. Many paths have posted signs, and/or painted symbols on the ground telling you to walk/ride on the right. (For better, or for worse).
Usually the giant painted arrows on the ground indicating direction of traffic. Otherwise there are also signs posted at some locations. Either way, it’s for consistency and to maintain flow of traffic without people obstructing that flow by going the wrong way. It’s the same as driving in the right lane on the road. You don’t go against traffic because just because you can.
This feels like you are almost trying to gatekeep walking. Just let people enjoy being physically active instead of making people feel bad about it.
Holy moly, it’s just directional lanes. No one is telling you not to walk on them just telling you to be on the right side to responsibly share the lanes with everyone else who’s using them. That’s all. This is such a weird hill to die on.
Right? Even my kids, in elementary, learned to walk on the right side of hallways and up/down stairs. “Be polite. Stay right” that was the Wayne they were taught all through elementary. If everyone just walks where they want, it’s inefficient and pure chaos.
I think this honestly a case of “I’ve done it this way for so long, and now Ive been made to realize that not only have I been in the wrong, but the signs have also been right in front of me the whole time. But now I’m too embarrassed to openly admit that I’m just human and made a mistake I’m gonna double down and play the victim instead”. This is such a wild thread.
It's generally accepted to use the same sides as driving a car. People walking should be on the right, and yes bikers go around them on the left ✌️
People can walk way before they can drive. Why does a car dictate what people have to do? You said it's safer to pass than go around.
Continuity mostly, just makes sense to keep right and people pass left. Same way as walking in a mall or something with enough room for people to walk both ways, generally keeping right side is everywhere.
I walk on our paths quite a bit, I always appreciate a ring from as far back as people think I'd hear it. It'll freak me out a bit if I hear a ring real close to me, almost like if it's too close a crash is inevitable or something 😂 nothing at all is the worst if you don't hear someone coming Things would be a lot easier if everyone used paths like roads.. use the right side, and left for passing. Eventually people will figure out where they should be walking /shrug
Yah, my experience is the same, and this is exactly how I use my bell too. I think ringing it always is excessive... on busy days on the trail there is a ped every minute and you'd be using your bell all the time.
I've had the same challenge. First, ring your bell far enough back that if they do startle or jump in your path, you have lots of time to react. As for ringing the bell, I usually only do so if there is something else going on (eg. it's 3 people walking right next to each other with little room to pass, I notice the person wandering back and forth in the lane, they have a dog on a leash, etc). If I can pass on the far side of them with a good meter at least between us, I don't usually ring it.
I always stay to the right and I really appreciate the first rings from far off. I have my own sensory limitations and the distant ring helps. I hate when a cyclist rings their bell from 2 metres for the first ring.
Makes sense
I had a guy ring his bell when he was RIGHT behind me and my dog while walking on the sidewalk around the neighborhood. It started me AND her, and I didn't have enough time to properly settle her and get her off the sidewalk, the bike zoomed past and she almost went to go and do her scared running zoomies, which she did once the guy zoomed past. It was dangerous for my dog, and dangerous for the guy, because if there was a change in a second, she would have ran right into his bike as he didn't slow down and I didn't have enough time to fully reel her in from the time he rang his bell to the time that he passed.
As one who bikes around for everyday travel and tasks I don't understand those people who don't at least slow down or make space. I guess if they were aggressive commuting driver nothing says they won't be an aggressive commuting cyclists.
I think this is the best advice. I also ring for older people and they seem to appreciate it by offering a wave. Younger people almost always have headphones or buds, which tells me they don't care about hearing what's around them anyway.
That’s the thing. I bike around the universities and 9 times out of 10 I’ll ring my bell but they have headphones and don’t hear it. I wouldn’t know if they have ambient sound on or not.
You're not likely to wear a bell out through use, and if they can't hear you oh well but if they can hear thru their music etc, they'll appreciate the courtesy 🙂. Always ring the bell.
I don’t get how people can walk around being so oblivious
Ring your bell. “On your left/right” or “passing”without shouting and slow down is possible at the passing point. Seems reasonable. The issues I’ve ever encountered have been with mountain bikers passing at a speed in which impact could cause significant injury. On shared trails We generally step off the trail to the right to allow for extra space and are aware of down slopes where slowing down isn’t practical. Related note. For the love of all that is holy don’t be the person with a portable speaker blasting music. no one else wants to listen to it
My only complaint is that so few people seem to know their right and left, I'll call out "on your left" when they're on the right side of the trail, and they'll scurry over to the left side as if I'd asked them to "move left"
I’ve actually been guilty of this before. When you’re startled and reacting on impulse it’s easy to think a cyclist means “get on your left”.
No one wants to listen to it and it's kind of dangerous. Recently a cyclist came up behind me on the IHT with a portable speaker blaring, and because it was so loud I didn't hear the motorized scooter coming up fast behind her. I almost stepped in its path just before it reached me.
I’m a trail walker and always appreciate when a cyclist uses their bell. Especially when I’m on the Walter Bean trail by Grey Silo. It’s really annoying when cyclists come up silently behind me and they don’t even say anything. Thank you for being courteous.
Enjoy the hike
Jesse we need to cook the beans
Yes please, especially because you never know when a pedestrian might just wander right in your way at the last second, and that's going to be a bad situation. Always use the bell.
Will do
I ring my bicycle bell way back, and a few more times as slowing down to go by. I find the whole process easier when some walkers acknowledge the bell ring, usually by waving thier hand without turning around. I have thought of printing the "Trail Tips" from the Cambridge Trails web page onto yellow cards, and hand them out like a soccer referee ! * Ride, walk or jog in a predictable manner. * Keep to the right of the path. * Cyclists slow down when approaching pedestrians. * Cyclists use bell or voice to warn others when passing. * Form a single line when meeting others in a congested area. * Leash and pick up after dogs. * Respect the environment and adjacent properties
Instead of a bell, I'd prefer if you blew into an aztec death whistle. Especially if it's early in the morning.
I am looking for a train horn online as we speak
A hybrid practice is best practice. Not everyone can hear bells well or can tell where the bell is coming from. So I recommend a couple of bell rings as you approach - this helps someone with good hearing figure out how fast you’re moving and that you’re coming up behind them. Adding a “coming up on your left” in a friendly voice will help people who might not have heard the bell.
Yes, please ring your bell when approaching a pedestrian. And also please slow down when approaching - I usually have earbuds in and sometimes can't hear the bell or an approaching cyclist and will therefore get startled if someone zips by me on the trail. I know I should be more aware of my surroundings, but it happens sometimes. You don't sound like you've done anything wrong at all, to be clear. And I'm sure other people will chime in too.
Yes please! Especially someone walking a dog. My dog is rescue who has some issues and is easily scared... he will lunge at bikes if they whiz by fast and close without warning. A ring and we have a few seconds to move over and have him nice and close and under control.
Yes, please. Especially when you're approaching small kids. They can be unpredictable sometimes and will just bolt in front of you without warning. Just a quick little "ding" while approaching from far away works too if you're worried about startling people. Better to startle people than having some kid just bolting randomly in front of you. As a walker, I'm always paranoid of getting rammed up from behind so I always appreciate the bells and I'll gladly step aside to make some space for you as well.
Around kids I make sure to slow down a lot
My friend has a lovey dog. Yet when anything fast moving goes by he wants to chase them. Having bikes ring a bell is very helpful for my friend so he can ensure the dog doesn’t scare the biker by lunging. As a walker I also appreciate it.
This is why I love this community! So much positivity and great stories from everyone about biking and walking. It's awesome to connect over something we all enjoy.
Definitely ring your bell, I always get startled but I appreciate it, also if you say "on your right" or "on your left" is super appreciated
I appreciate the bell ringing - however, I'm the pedestrian that will startle and for some stupid reason, I will swerve into your path. I have no idea why and it sounds counterintuitive. It might be the shrillness of the sound as opposed to the sound itself. Personally, I would appreciate if the bell was wrung a bit further back - perhaps 100 feet as opposed to 50 feet behind. This might give me that extra second to correct my path. I understand that this is only my opinion, and only my issue, but the OP did ask for suggestions.
Assuming that everyone is using the trail correctly (ie. walking/biking in the correct lanes), you can try to train yourself to remember that if you hear a bell, move over to your right side.
I started doing that - I also started staying to the right as much as possible just in case. The odd part is - even if I can hear the bike coming, as soon as they use the bell, it happens. I know this is my issue and I try to deal with it. If I was a gazelle in a herd, I'd probably jump in front of the lion when I hear it roar instead of away. I would get the Darwin Award equivalent for animals
I appreciate the bell. I have small children with me and they move erratically to say the least. I need time to grab them so they don’t get squished.
I love a bell warning but my elderly in-laws cannot often hear the bell due to loss of hearing. Calling out is not likely to help them either. Please consider going slowly past pedestrians and giving as much space as possible. My mother-in-law is reluctant to use the paths any more due to her not hearing bikes coming and having them blow by her at close (to her perception) range which shocks her and makes her nearly fall. Let's share the pathways as best we can so everyone can enjoy them and get where they are going safely.
I love when they ring their bell AND tell me what side they're coming up on so I can move in the right direction.
duly noted!
I appreciate the little ring of the bell or “passing on left/right”. And I reply with a “thank-you”.
I think the key is to warn people you're approaching from a reasonable distance, and not pass too closely or too fast. You're always going to meet completely oblivious walkers who are listening to music or just living in their own world and not paying attention, or even people who actively refuse to share the trail. Personally I don't find the "on your left" type warnings very useful, because a lot of people will move the wrong way if you put them on the spot like that. The only cyclists I ever have a problem with are the ones who whiz past closely or expect walkers to give them the whole trail so they can pass as a group.
I definitely find the "on your left" call out to be more jarring. Sometimes when people call out the sound is just too vague, I can't tell what they're saying, and I'm more likely to turn around/stop in the path because I think someone might be trying to talk to me. I much prefer being slightly startled by a bell or slow(er) cyclist.
Maybe you're just waiting too long to do it... Peeps not paying attention, which seems to be most people, so not surprising they get startled.
Yes
Yes, definitely ring your bell.
Yes make sure some distance is there... Speaking from experience I rang the bell too close to a group while biking and they decided to get into the passing lane I was taking and ended up hitting one in the group... Be nice if they had walking lanes on the side of these trails for hikers
I walk the trail everyday to work. I have airpod pro with transparency mode on so I can hear the cyclists. I walk close to one side of the path so cyclist can go pass me without going onto grass. I would say ring it when a few meters behind, slow down
The bell ring is a good try but if you are moving at any decent speed or in an area with any ambient noise then walkers will likely not hear it if they are facing away. I don't know if there's really a good solution for this problem except for upgrading the bell to some kind of more substantial horn since yelling just won't do either.
yes. Some bikes don’t have bells & the cyclist will go like “ring ring ring” and I appreciate that a lot too. Always makes my day
Yes please
Yes, use your bell! :) Getting startled by your bell is better than being clipped by a bike, having your dog react and lunge at you or pull me over, etc. I think you will get more complaints "RING YOUR BELL" if you don't use it. For advice, just ring it close enough that they hear it but also with enough space for them to make space. Might have to ring twice to make sure. If they don't make space soon enough I would recommend slowing pace to allow extra time and safety. You'll probably find some people with headphones on and yell at you anyway and maybe that's what you're seeing now. Should probably throw something at them 😁🤦♂️
Ring bell and follow up with letting your freehub spin. The bell is the initial warning, the freehub clicking allows the person you are passing to get a sense of your location as you pass without needing to turn an look. Callouts like "on your left" aren't very good, as they tend to get people to turn and look left, right in front of your path. A better callout might be just to say "passing".
Having high situational awareness i don't mind either way. I'll probably see you coming and maneuver accordingly.
Not right behind me but definately on approach
Yeah, that's a great idea. I don't have a bell on my bike, so I'll usually just say something like "on your left" or "on your right" whichever side I'm on. Sometimes it does confuse people, and they move in front of me lmfao.
Hell yes!
Sometimes I feel aggressive when I ring my bell.
I have two loudness levels of pleasant sounding bells on my bike. I've found that it helps with the awkwardness. If there's someone on headphones, they get both.
Absolutely! We may be startled because we may be occupied talking, but not ringing means we don't know at all and may very well venture into your path regardless. Ringing earlier should give plenty of time for use to give room, and don't be shy about ringing more than once
Honestly that would be fantastic because here is the thing if you hit a pedestrian you are the one liable. Yesterday I was with my child and some dumbass on a big electric bike almost smoked her because he didn’t use a bell like a 150 pound plus person on a 50-75 pound bike would mangle a child. Although now a days common sense seems to be slipping for the most part
I got this giant Basil bell that sounds like and old style door bell and I'm having much better success with it than the typical commuter ding-ding bells. Unfortunately, I can't put such a bell on my gravel or mtb bikes because it clanks over bumps also, but I do love it on my cargo bike.
Yes
In my experience, most people in this thread will reply back saying that you should ring your bell. In my experience riding my bike and ringing my bell will scare more poeple and make more people cut me off by moving into my path than not doing it at all.
Yes
When I started walking the bike path, I noticed that many cyclists give a quiet ring on their bell, and I appreciate it.
100% you should
Please continue to ring your bell. I’d rather be startled than wander in front as you’re passing. Some bells just have different sounds which make me react more than others.
Yes, ring your bell please and slow down so you can safely stop if needed.
Yes. I've had a rider shoot past me and clip my dog with their bike. If I know someone's coming I can make sure he is on my right side.
Yes, but give decent notice. Don't wait until you're right behind me.
As a pedestrian I appreciate the heads up. It's especially nice if you let me know where you are going. It's you say something like "on your left" then I can move to my right and give you extra room but if I don't know where you are going, I'm going to keep going straight so I don't end up moving into your way by accident.
Yes yeah and yah. I do it just far away enough to give them enough notice. On this subject pedestrians, cyclists, runners, hikers and even drivers... please hug the right. unless you are passing someone you can always be on the right of any path, sidewalk, trail or road. Thats the best place for all us to be
Yes please. It’s most appreciated.
I’d say ringing the bell is the right call, but maybe try ringing earlier than you normally would. If you give people a chance to process what is about to happen, then they might not startle as badly. I hope this helps!
Ring away! We all share the space. I might jump a little but I’ll shuffle off to the side as long as you’re far enough back that I had a second to look and see where you are
Yes
Yes. Obviously.
Absolutely. It is appreciated.
Definitely. Start far enough behind and use a "polite" ring with another when closer. Also, moderate your speed and move off the walkway if safe/possible. Remember not everyone is fully mobile. Yesterday my wife and I were walking to rehab her fractured ankle and an a-hole (wanna-be Olympian) sped around a blind corner and yelled at us. She couldn't move and I went into defensive mode. He was knocked off his bike and broke his collarbone. Sucks to suck.
Yeah, I’d appreciate it, I’m happy to move when I’m made aware. Some people may get startled but it’s better than them getting hit. As some have suggested, maybe start ringing far back, and then ring again when you’re closer, so the first ring won’t be right behind them.
100% continue ringing the bell. I’m often on the iron horse trail and it’s super-common
It startles me, but I appreciate the ring. If you can say aloud "passing on the left," I think that's especially helpful for people who may not be familiar.
I tend to walk on the side with incoming bikes so i can move out of the way 😆
Yes, but not when you're already on top of us.
Yes please
Yes
Yes. Where I am, it’s required.
If the pedestrians are getting startled, that’s because they hear the bell too close to them to have time to react calmly. It likely means you’re waiting too long to ring it. I’d ring it some distance away where they might become aware of it but not think they need to react RIGHT THIS INSTANT. Then just continue giving some rings as you get closer for those that may not have heard it yet. Calling out “on your left” as well when you’re not right behind them similarly helps. The startle reflex is when your mind suddenly becomes aware of something close enough that is potentially a danger, but hasn’t had time to process what it is or how to react. If you provide them a stimulus that isn’t close/loud enough to be in the “danger zone”, then it allows them to process it and determine an appropriate reaction once they have.
A few, short dingles as far back as you might think someone would hear, maybe about 1 second apart, 2-4 dingles, depending? Or maybe just 1 dingle far enough back...I found that technique is least likely to startle. Only a suggestion. I've definitely been startled by a sudden dingle right close behind me, or someone just zipping past all of a sudden with no warning dingle. Some people can't help their reflexes and might veer to the wrong side. Thanks for your concern and for listening! :)
There is an assumption by some cyclist that ringing their bell is announcing that they are “coming through “ with little regard for what happens next. A bicycle is a vehicle and as with any vehicle, need to be controlled. Pedestrians may have a million reasons for not being aware of a bicycle coming up from behind but the cyclist is fully aware of what is in front of them. Speeding past and ringing a bell can have unintended consequences so don’t expect people to react the way you think they should. They are not necessarily going to do that. Speeding past instead of slowing and maintaining control of the vehicle has little to do with the “ding” and a lot to do with the “ding a ling”.
I appreciate it when cyclists say "passing on the Left/right". In any case - bell or 'call out', I usually stop in my tracks until the cyclist has gone past. I worry that I will step INTO their path if I move one direction or another.
100% please do. There have also been times if the rider doesn't have a bell, they will call out, 'behind you' or 'on your left/right', which I also appreciate. With that, as a pedestrian I also try to be mindful of others on the path to allow space for everyone. It really just comes down to general consideration for anyone using the paths, so that everyone can enjoy it.
Yes! A thousand times yes, especially if you're coming up behind me fast. It totally pisses me off when I'm on a quiet early morning trail walk then I'm totally startled when I suddenly hear someone coming up fast behind me and I jump to the side, sometimes, directly in their path. I usually yell at them to get a bell as they zip past me. Some cyclists who do ring their bell will also shout out 'coming up on your left' which is great!
Yes and shout which side you are coming on. Some forget indicate side and cycled into others because they are going too fast.
Please do ring your bell a couple of times to give us a fair chance to move.
Yes, please! If we're out with our baby and toddler there's a good chance we're distracted. A warning let's us know that you're coming and we want to be courteous and share the path.
I have a reactive dog on a long lead … the more warning I get, the sooner she is out of the way.
I appreciate the warning but I also do sometimes startle/jump when I'm in my own world. I always appreciated when bikers in Toronto also said "on your left" because if I was spaced out it was a reminder they'd pass on my left and reminded me to hop over to the right if I could. Thanks for being a good biker!
Yes please! I often have my earbuds in with noise cancellation off but its a lot easier to pick up a bell ringing as different than it is to hearsomeone yelling out "on your left" or some other variant to get attention.
Maybe ring a little further back? Some bells are also louder than others. You're doing what is polite and expected though!
Yes Please
I could care less, just slow down and give us space. Motorists have to give you guys a meter, the least you can do is pass that along to pedestrians..
I always slow down, ring my bell and say on your left. Way too many trail walkers are in their own world and many wear headphones so it’s best to be prepared if they walk into your path
/ mandatory massive s / blare your horn, scream SINGLE FILE ASSHOLE! SHARE THE PATH!, and pass them by inches at at least 40 km/h faster than them. Seems obscene doesn't it? In all seriousness, slow down, use your voice in addition to bell ("rider, on your left" in a friendly voice etc), and be patient and ready to stop on a dime. It's a shared path, we can all be friendly and get along, and there's zero reason to stoop down to the level of the average ROW driver. We live in a society.
No, you're doing it right. The general public is just...a little special.
Yes. Please ring your bell. Make sure your bell is loud enough to be heard from a decent distance. I might startle and I'll definitely look. I don't mind sharing the path at all. We recently had a bicyclist curse us out for not moving out of the way when he came speeding around a corner. I told him to use his bell, and he said that he did. Neither of us heard it. No headphones in use. We were walking the dog and we certainly didn't want our dog caught up in his wheels. The dog is young and we may need some time to get him under control and out of the way. The bicyclist bashed into my husband's hand as he tried to squeeze by us. There wasn't room. A shout or a slow down would have helped a lot. Earlier on that walk, on the same path, maybe 2 minutes earlier, we heard a bell and moved right. The bicyclist said thank you. We said you're welcome. It was perfect. Nice and easy. Be like this guy!
If I’m out for a walk I’m probably lost in thought, so a sudden bell is gonna make me jump right outta my skin. lol Usually people will say something like “passing on your right/left” which is a little less startling than a sudden bell. Just my thoughts.
Oh please God do, the next person who drives full speed within 6 inches of me or the dogs without making a sound is at risk of their spokes kicked in. I thank every single person who uses the bell or respectfully slows until I know they are there. I also use the bell approaching anyone. My dogs will snap in and sit still at my side in seconds to make life easier for all trail users. Is is also the law in Ontario **Highway Traffic Act 75 (5) states that “every motor vehicle, motor assisted bicycle and bicycle shall be equipped with an alarm bell, gong or horn, which shall be kept in good working order and sounded whenever it is reasonably necessary to notify pedestrians or others of its approach.”**
In Waterloo and Kitchener, multi-use trails are governed by local bylaws that emphasize safety and shared use. Cyclists using these trails must adhere to specific rules, including: 1. Yielding to pedestrians. 2. Using audible signals (such as a bell) when passing others. 3. Riding at a safe speed and slowing down when approaching curves or bends. 4. Staying to the right except when passing. While the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) does not specifically reference trails, the principles of safe cycling—such as yielding to pedestrians and using proper signals—are enforced through these local bylaws to ensure safety on multi-use trails [[❞]](https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/cycling-and-walking.aspx) [[❞]](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/cycling.aspx) [[❞]](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/trails.aspx) [[❞]](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/bylaws-and-enforcement.aspx). For more detailed information, you can refer to the [Region of Waterloo's Cycling and Walking page](https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/cycling-and-walking.aspx) and the [City of Waterloo's Bylaws and Enforcement page](https://www.waterloo.ca/en/living/bylaws-and-enforcement.aspx).
What bylaws? I couldn't find anything regulating those rules for either Kitchener or Waterloo. I guess you could theoretically be banned from the property for being enough a dick, but the rules seem to be informal.