Okay, I'm sort of new around here, an usually just a lurker, but I gotta speak up.
I got a pinch flat yesterday on my way home from work at Milwaukee & Chicago. No biggie, pulled off the street and got out my "crash kit" with tools and a spare tube, and got to work. But in the 20 minutes I spent putzing around, I saw at least 2 dozen other riders fly by, and not a single person stopped to ask if I needed help. I mean, really? What happened to this community of cyclists that's supposed to exist? I don't say anything to the other riders that I see cutting in front of cars/pedestrians and blowing red lights, but this really takes the cake.
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I personally love to stop and help or ask if people need help (e.g. air, tools, patchkit). Because I'm a transpo (getting around) geek. I know some other people who do too, wish more would.
Ethan Spotts, Active Trans
I think that's more of a problem with folks in Chicago in general. People have their blinders on going about their own business. Something I noticed since moving here 5 years ago. Ain't just the cyclists, we do like to think we're special though.
On the other hand, you said no biggie, had a crash kit, in all appearances you probably "looked" fine. If you were in distress, it may have been a different story.
Welcome and lurk no more.
I usally shout out asking the rider if they are OK. But if I saw that someone had already a spread of repair tools or flat kit out, I kinda would assume that person had it well in hand. And by me asking, could come off as insulting, like they don't know what they are doing. Though I will especially go out of my if its late at night or if the person broke down in area that they should have someone stay with them.
Its just possible that you were only seeing commuters who may have not had a clue on how to repair a flat. I am always shocked that with in all the clubs and teams that I train with, how many riders do not know how to fix a flat, let alone make an adjustment on their bikes. Consider yourself above the norm that your only options were not bus, cab, or walk home.
Happy riding and please let this not bother you from wanting to help others!
I agree with PJ and others here - it was a combination of you probably being more prepared and able to perform the repair yourself; and people's self centerdness, and just being 'in the zone'.
What I have found is that many folks will help *if/when asked*, however; they are not the type to offer help with being summoned.
Think of it as a compliment. You must have looked like you got your shit together.
That MKE/Chicago intersection is on my commute. I definitely would have said somethin to ya.
My experience has been more like sten's. Pretty much every biker going by at least nods or asks if I've got everything under control.
You must have looked either hypercompetent, a little scary, or both ;-)
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