Comment: Friendly Victoria? Not for people riding bicycles We’re outdoors and enjoying the fresh air — why aren’t people more cheerful? All but the most jaded Toronto residents can muster an acknowledgement. Will Prentice Jun 18, 2024 12:49 AM Jun 18, 2024 2:37 AM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Cyclists travel along the Galloping Goose Trail in Saanich near Uptown. ADRIAN LAM, TIMES COLONIST Listen to this article 00:04:44 A commentary by a resident of Whitby, Ont.
I’ve read a few Times Colonist articles and I better understand what I experienced recently in Victoria — a very clear lack of “friendliness,” if not lack of politeness, toward me as a cyclist, at least by pedestrians and road cyclists. I was riding a Class 1 electric assist bike at the time, but only the keenest of observers would have noticed this. I’ve always greeted other trail users, no matter their mode of transport, with a cheerful “Good morning,” “Beautiful day to be out, isn’t it” or at least a nod or wave.
We’re outdoors and enjoying the fresh air — why aren’t people more cheerful? All but the most jaded Toronto residents can muster a smile or some kind of acknowledgement. But Victoria — I expected so much better and was left disappointed. I experienced dirty looks, scowls or was just ignored by most trail users.
The only exceptions were other mountain bikers and a couple riding their road bikes — who are from .
