ONE. WEEK AWAY: Ride in the Rain Challenge

Thanks to Joseph for that photo taken this morning on the West Seattle low bridge. The photo reminds us that with one week to go until the start of November, it’s time to share this announcement with you:

Looking for an active transportation alternative to sitting sedentary in traffic jams?

West Seattle Bike Connections encourages everyone to join the November Ride in the Rain Challenge sponsored by Washington Bikes and Cascade Bicycle Club.

It’s free, easy and fun to sign up, whether you are a seasoned bike rider or want to try out commuting by bicycle for the first time. You can ride anywhere and for any reason as long as your trip is at least 10 minutes long. Once you join, you can also invite friends, family or coworkers to join and form a team of up to ten riders to compete with other groups across the region. Every day you log a ride in November 2021 you get points for participation, a point for every mile you ride and bonus points for encouraging others. Maximize your points by making a goal of riding every day. You have a chance to win prizes and enjoy the knowledge that riders across Washington are silently cheering you on.

Check the West Seattle Bike Connections Resources web page for tips on riding safely and comfortably in rainy weather and for route suggestions to popular commuting destinations on and off the West Seattle peninsula.

Jay October 25, 2021 (10:04 am)

That’s my daily commute and I hate that bridge so much! It takes an unreasonable amount of time to close, I’m talking minutes. Seattle is famous for poorly designed bridges, but this one should be a contender for most absurd design.

bolo October 25, 2021 (12:39 pm)

Yes but I am at least thankful it has a protected bike lane that is usually free of broken glass and feces (looking at you Lander).
- Jay October 25, 2021 (2:36 pm)
  
  Oh yeah, gotta have those kevlar and plastic lined tires!

Eddie October 25, 2021 (11:29 am)

Actually, that bridge won a prestigious design award. Thanks for playing.”I’m talking minutes”. What would you propose is an appropriate amount of time?

Jay October 26, 2021 (8:15 am)

It won the award for being unique, not being good. There’s a reason the entire world only has one of them. It takes way too long for a bridge of it’s size to close. Why are you trying to put me down the the “thanks for playing” comment, and why do you like this bridge that most users hate?
- Eddie October 26, 2021 (6:46 pm)
  
  I just think whining about “I’m talking minutes” is wonky. Yeah it takes a little time, live with it. Coexist with marine users. Coexist with cars. Ride your bike and let it go….I ride across it 3-5 days a week (6-10 crossings) and get caught by an opening maybe once or twice. Unless it’s pouring rain it’s no more than a slight annoyance. I also cross Fremont and ballard bridges and get caught there too. Big whoop. Take a breath and enjoy life.
alki_2008 October 27, 2021 (9:39 pm)

Am I reading cyclists complain about a bridge taking “minutes” to close, while cyclists also tell cars that they should slow down and wait for bikes and not be in such a rush. Interesting.

Cogburn October 25, 2021 (1:55 pm)

Apparently even bicycles need bridge maintenance. Please inform the city council

Don Brubeck October 27, 2021 (5:26 pm)

Waiting a few minutes for the bridge to open for marine traffic can be a nice social occasion for bike riders, or at least a little breather and a chance to enjoy the views. Those ships and barges represent lots of good jobs for West Seattle and the Duwamish Valley.