Music & Cycling: Am I crazy?

[JasCali]

I've gotten a lot of slack in the past for listening to music through an earpiece while cycling, and I was wondering if anyone else does this on occasion? I'm not a competitive rider, so I don't go too fast, and I typically listen to quiet classical music, but I guess it could become a problem if you have trouble hearing cars, other bikes, etc..

And I just got a great new CD for mother's day, too -- not from my daughter, she's too young to barter, lol. It's this great classical CD by the singer Katherine Jenkins, I would highly recommend it, not sure if anyone else here listens to her or classical vocalists in general. I really like Andrea Bocelli, too, he had a great concert at the Universal Amphitheatre near my house recently. That's me, craving music constantly, hence the possibly dangerous habit that I've developed.

Maybe I should stop, I dunno? Listening to Puccini or Verdi while taking in a great view of the coast.. :)

Jasmine

[betagirl]

When I ride alone, I always bring my iPod. I keep the volume low enough where I can hear what's going on around me. I don't ever ride with headphones with others though, so I can hear communications etc. So you're not the only rule breaker :) I know in some states it's actually illegal to ride with headphones, but I don't think I've ever heard of anyone getting pulled over.

[sarahkonamojo]

You aren't alone except when you are alone. And when I ride alone I bring my Shuffle. I can still hear the traffic. In fact I prefer the slightly muffled traffic noise. Full on traffic noise is a little too loud and nerve racking. If I'm riding with others, I leave the shuffle at home.

I'm not the greatest singer, but also sing aloud as I ride. Maybe that is why I have to ride alone as often as I do.

skm

[slinkedog]

I'm one who doesn't ride with headphones/music. I do most of my riding on quiet, narrow country roads and it's hard to hear a car coming up until they're right on top of you. Same for cyclists. They're usually good to let me know if they're passing, but I almost never hear them until the very last second. I'm concerned that I'll be too cut off from what's going on around me if I ride while listening to music, much as I'd love to do it.

JasCali... I was an opera major in college, but I don't listen to it much now. I'll have to check out Katherine Jenkins. Kiri Te Kanawa was always my favorite soprano for true opera... so pure and beautiful and not too heavy. And I love Elly Ameling for art songs and lieder.

[Jo-n-NY]

I inched my way to riding with headphones, well I just put it in my right ear. I was the only one of our little trio (husband and friend) that didn't ride listening to music. I have an IRiver as I heard it was pretty decent and got it with my Amex points. I download music mostly from movies Phantom of the Opera, Pearl Harbour, You've Got Mail and others. This was the third step after getting use step one, new road bike, step two, clippless pedals.

I have to admit, it is quite nice when riding alone and this reminds me, better get some batteries during lunch. Yes, an IRiver takes 1 double A battery and lasts a very long time. But every so often you get a little buzzing sound I guess if I hit a frequency area or something.

~JoAnn

[ACG]

I listen to music, very low. I usually ride alone. I use a small walkman that clips on. Will probably get an IPOD soon.

[AutumnBreez]

I listen when I am alone, which is most of the time...99%
I am on country roads too, almost every ride the wind blows so hard/loud when I haven't had the music I still can't hear the cars, just from wind alone, I might as well enjoy the noise in my ears filled with music to motivate me. I use my eyes often and keep to the road in a consistant manner as I can, and look before I move into lane further in. I will also signal a bit before I look so that if someone is there they will not be nervous of my possible movement that may occur when looking behind me if there is someone behind me. Communication is key.

Rarely, no music is nice, but only very rarely takes place 1% of time when I am riding with another and want to hear the other person when they speak to me.

...if I don't have a spare battery to replace the other is when wind takes its place :eek:

I don't think it is bad to have music, as long as you have it to a volume that keeps you safe and motivated at the same time-
much like having your protien bar(cake) and eating it too :p

[yellow]

I listen to the music of my tires on the rough, chip-sealed roads.

I listen to the oak titmouse and olive-sided flycatchers calling (and this time of year, the warblers and wrens singing).

I listen to the flow of the streams that I follow and cross.

I listen to my breathing and sometimes to my heartbeat in my head.

These things so much define my solo rides...I can't imagine blocking them out or distracting from them with recorded music!

[AutumnBreez]

Must be nice....
No, I hear what your saying, but the wind is so strong the only thing I could hear out of those you mentioned was the heartbeat in my head-- internal

Very nice, your surroundings, I would enjoy that too!!

[SadieKate]

I listen to the music of my tires on the rough, chip-sealed roads.

I listen to the oak titmouse and olive-sided flycatchers calling (and this time of year, the warblers and wrens singing).

I listen to the flow of the streams that I follow and cross.

I listen to my breathing and sometimes to my heartbeat in my head.

These things so much define my solo rides...I can't imagine blocking them out or distracting from them with recorded music! A very eloquent ditto from me. You said it beautifully, Yellow. Must be why I like to ride with you, rather why I like to follow you. :)

[caligurl]

i listen to music... bought an mp3 player just for riding..... never had an interest in one prior to riding... and don't listen to it off the bike!

i keep it low enough that i can hear cars or carry on a conversation! i have more trouble hearing people (or cars) when it's really windy!

[spazzdog]

I just bought a RIO Carbon... don't know why its called Carbon as it looks stainless steel. Anyway I bought it specifically for riding. I have an older pair of earbuds that I'll use with my helmet. I wind the wire on the bud side aroun the helmet straps by the ears, then tie them off (gently). The bud sits a bit outside my ear rather than in it all the way. I can hear traffic noise and my favorite rockers.

I like the RIO... it's about the same size as my litle cellphone.

I am such a toy geek... next high dollar purchase - the Oakley THUMP, sport sunglassses (flip-ups) with built in MP3; earbuds attached to earpieces.

[loni0908k]

the wind is so strong the only thing I could hear out of those you mentioned was the heartbeat in my head

I hear you on this one! In the surrounding Chicago areas my ears start to ache when the wind is really bad. And my headphones not only block the wind from rushing in, but they also keep me motivated to ride faster, harder, and longer!

[nuthatch]

I hear you on this one! In the surrounding Chicago areas my ears start to ache when the wind is really bad. And my headphones not only block the wind from rushing in, but they also keep me motivated to ride faster, harder, and longer!

Speaking of ear numbness due to whistling winds, is there anyway to lessen this effect and still maintain your hearing of important road noises? Some sort of earband to cut the whoosh? I've wondered about this when I'm riding fast - when I'm ambling, I'll enjoy the birds and streams with you, Yellow! Or the sound of my own voice singing sailor songs!

[profàvélo]

Dear Ladies,

I am shocked that so many of you use headphones/music while riding. :eek:

It is not safe, no matter how low you have the volume. It ranks right up there with not wearing a helmet. :(

Please reconsider, so that you can hear that car sneaking up behind you, or your fellow cyclist trying to give you a warning.

If not for yourself, please do it for your mother/son/SO/brother/favorite pet.

;)

[Irulan]

Dear Ladies,

I am shocked that so many of you use headphones/music while riding. :eek:

It is not safe, no matter how low you have the volume. It ranks right up there with not wearing a helmet. :(

Please reconsider, so that you can hear that car sneaking up behind you, or your fellow cyclist trying to give you a warning.

If not for yourself, please do it for your mother/son/SO/brother/favorite pet.

;)

I"m with you, I think it's a bad/unsafe idea.

[DeniseGoldberg]

I am shocked that so many of you use headphones/music while riding. :eek:

It is not safe, no matter how low you have the volume. It ranks right up there with not wearing a helmet.


I agree. I would never consider blocking out the sounds of the environment I am riding through. It's our responsibility to stay as safe as possible when riding - and keeping focused on the sights and sounds of the road is much more important than listening to your favorite music.

--- Denise

[Crankin]

Second that. I am sort of shocked that anyone would ride with music on. It's an accident waiting to happen. We wouldn't want to do anything that makes others think cyclists are irresponsible.... safety comes first.
I ride mostly on country roads and part of the fun when I'm alone is actually hearing and seeing the things you don't see in a car!

[caligurl]

profavelo... i disagree.... i CAN hear cars sneaking up on me.... i CAN hear people to talk to them....

you know what causes me not to be able to hear cars and people (and my music)? wind noise! wind noise is WAY louder than my music.... how do you propose we stop that?

i ride the same roads... day in and day out unless i happen to get in on an organized ride... i get bored.... there aren't other options for me cuz the roads i ride are the safe ones.... the only saving grace for that monoteny (spelling) of those rides is having that music playing faintly in the background....

[SadieKate]

From the UC Davis transportation site
http://www.taps.ucdavis.edu/bicycle/general/newucdcyclist.html

According the California Vehicle Code, every person riding a bicycle upon a street or highway has all the rights and responsibilities of the driver of a motor vehicle. On campus traffic regulations are strictly enforced . You may be cited for running stop signs, riding at an unsafe speed for conditions, riding on the wrong side of the road or on sidewalks, wearing headphones while riding, not having legal brakes, etc.

From the California DMV site
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d12/vc27400.htm
Wearing of Headsets or Earplugs
27400. A person operating a motor vehicle or bicycle may not wear a headset covering, or earplugs in, both ears.

[SadieKate]

From the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
http://www.helmets.org/bcstudy.htm
#5

Background
Several deaths of cyclists have been reported in Ontario that were linked directly to the use of stereo headphones. We have all seen people riding bikes or driving cars seemingly completely in their own space and little aware of what is going on about them. Cyclist users of headphones, indeed any users who are engaged in an activity that may pose dangers to themselves or others through inattention to what they are doing, should be made aware of the dangers inherent in the use of these headsets in certain situations.

Recommendation
A study should be conducted into the incidence of stereo headphone use in conjunction with bicycle accidents with a view to supplementing bicycle education programs about the dangers of such use and, depending on the outcome of the study, consider recommendations for the prohibition of such use in certain circumstances.

[annerol]

Dear Slinkedog,
what is "leider"?
Anne

[SadieKate]

Dear Slinkedog,
what is "leider"?
AnneSongs that you sing while wearing your "hosen" and drinking your brew. :D Wait for slinke's much more elegant (I'm sure) description.

[Irulan]

entry found for lieder.
lied Audio pronunciation of "lieder" ( P ) Pronunciation Key (lt)
n. pl. lie·der (ldr)

A German art song for solo voice and piano

[Pedal Wench]

The law and practical thinking both are opposed to 'stereo' headphones. When I'm on a bike trail, I'll use an earphone in my right ear only. My left ear is clear for approaching cars(at intersections), cyclists, sirens, etc. You can even wire the headphone cables to combine both channels into one wire, so you get a full mono signal in that one ear, instead of half of a stereo signal. When I'm on the road, I tend to want all my senses concentrating on my surroundings, but I'm riding on busier streets - I might feel differently if I was on rural roads. I do love my iPod on the trail though.




From the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
http://www.helmets.org/bcstudy.htm
#5

Background
Several deaths of cyclists have been reported in Ontario that were linked directly to the use of stereo headphones. We have all seen people riding bikes or driving cars seemingly completely in their own space and little aware of what is going on about them. Cyclist users of headphones, indeed any users who are engaged in an activity that may pose dangers to themselves or others through inattention to what they are doing, should be made aware of the dangers inherent in the use of these headsets in certain situations.

Recommendation
A study should be conducted into the incidence of stereo headphone use in conjunction with bicycle accidents with a view to supplementing bicycle education programs about the dangers of such use and, depending on the outcome of the study, consider recommendations for the prohibition of such use in certain circumstances.

[Irulan]

one could give the same argument against music use on the trail too... can't hear riders coming up behind you etc.

irulan

[SadieKate]

When I'm on the road, I tend to want all my senses concentrating on my surroundings, but I'm riding on busier streets - I might feel differently if I was on rural roads. I do love my iPod on the trail though.You know, I am much more likely to zone out into the zen of riding on rural roads and on the trail. My ears are perked up all the time in the 'burbs, but I can constantly be surprised on country roads and on dirt.

[JasCali]

I used a full CD player for a while, which was problematic because on several hour rides I would have to switch over CDs and carry them with me -- now I just load CDs onto a shuffle and go with that, it's lightweight, small, and works great. I understand the obvious dangers with listening, but again, I only wear a single earpiece, and a lot of the time I ride on car-less paths. I try to keep it low enough to hear around me well, too, but anyone who listens to classical music knows that it's very difficult to enjoy (and even hear) at low volumes.

Glad to hear that I'm not the only one who sneaks in some music on their rides. Definitely fun, although I swear I feel guilty about it sometimes, only sometimes. :)

[Trek420]

wow, such controversy. here's my $0.02.

when I'm on the road alone or with a group no headphones for me. I'm slightly hard of hearing so I need every sound I can get plus...I wear a headet all day and once off work sick of the &^% things.

If you ride with me be forwarned I will sing for no apparent reason, just whatever comes to mind especially when climbing.

If I'm out in the boondocks I want to hear the birds, wind, creek etc. Don't do much off road riding but if I can hear nature I prefer that to any music, best soundtrack on earth.

[yellow]

I find this whole need to listen to music whilst engaging in physical activities baffling. :confused:

Don't get me wrong...I LIKE music, but when I'm outside running or cycling or skiing, I'd rather be fully in tune with my surroundings in a spiritual sense (as well as for safety reasons-we have very large kitties here :eek: ). Why block it out or distract from it? I just don't get it. I guess it's just one of those things that's WAY over my head.

Does it provide motivation? Does it distract from pain you might be feeling? Does it make the time go by faster? Does it enhance your wilderness experience? I mean, there has to be SOMETHING to it otherwise so many people wouldn't do it.

To use a non-cycling example, I've noticed over the last couple of years that ski resorts have really jumped on the must-have-music bandwagon, to the point of it being amplified across half the mountain. Plus it seems that the ski resort parking lots have really become a boom-boom fest, mostly younger people playing music very loudly that is hardly musical while they suit up. When I'm in the mountains, I want to listen to the mountains, not Popular-Rappuh-O'-Da-Month. So more and more I go into the backcountry and listen to the real music of the mountains.

[archibella]

Lol, I have been curious about this topic too-- as I've just started cycling. Personally I decided that I didn't feel safe enough. But if someone wants to ride with headphones-- I won't tell them stop. I may choose not to ride so closely though, lol.

I had to share this 'sighting' with you ladies though (As I said, I'm a newbie, so if this is usual my apologies): On a weekly ride that I do, typically 50+ people go. It's a blast-- you meet lots of people, etc. The last two rides-- there's a guy hauling one of those baby trailer deals-- with a stereo/boombox in it! I think it's pretty funny-- but I definitely don't complain when I hear the strains of a cool song drifting my way ;)

cheers!

[sarahkonamojo]

Why headphones? Because I don't want to listen to other people's music. I really don't like the car as boom box phenomena, but the ski resorts are trying to attract those specific customers. At the ski area headphones. In the BC none. Kind of like in the exurbs: headphones. Out in the wilds: none.

Nothing beats hearing the canyon wren or the rush of the river or the crashing of waves. A close second is listening to a personally significant soundtrack while watching stars race across the Arizona sky. To each her own.

There are dangers to all outdoor activities. Riding a bike is dangerous. Certainly, listening to music while riding is also dangerous. Sadly, a young skier was killed by a snow machine this year while training on a race course. Seemed like everyone wanted to blame the headphones she had around her NECK... Everyone has to evaluate there own comfort level. Shouldn't we treat all other riders with caution.

Sarah

[betagirl]

I'm strictly a roadie, so I don't get into a whole lot of wilderness on my rides. I ride farm roads mostly, so I guess I could take in some 'moos' from the cows :D For me, riding to tunes helps me go further. I adjust my speed/cadence to the beat of the music when I'm out by myself. When I'm in traffic, I usually shut the music off or turn it down as low as possible so I can hear. I've been doing this 7 years and never had a problem (knock on wood). I understand the side that this is dangerous/stupid/crazy/etc. But for me, I enjoy my solo rides more to tunes. ;)

[Kathi]

Sorry to break the bad news to those of you who live in Colorado, but, like California, a bicycle is considered a vehicle and earphones are illegal when operating a vehicle in Colorado too.

I've been seeing more and more riders with earphones. They worry me because they don't acknowledge me when I pass, most of them don't hear me when I yell, on your left! I don't worry about them getting hurt if they swerve and hit me, that's their problem, but I do care if I get hurt!

Kathi

[joyrider]

The "on your left" thing doesn't really work when the person you're talking to can't hear you. I've had a different experience - riding frequently on the heavily used Los Gatos Creek Trail, I have many times encountered joggers, sometimes with strollers, who give no response to my signaling that I want to pass - and then when I do pass, I see that they're wearing headphones...
But I'm torn, because I think music would perk me up on a long ride, too. However, I think the bottom line is that even though I think it would be satisfying to combine the pleasure of riding with the pleasure of listening to music, I rely on my ears to tell me what dangers are around me, like it or not. And if I weigh riding with no tunes against being hit by a car or God forbid injuring someone else, no tunes wins.
I have been considering the boom box in the basket method, though. In the right environment, I think it could work. :)

[DeniseGoldberg]

Sorry to break the bad news to those of you who live in Colorado, but, like California, a bicycle is considered a vehicle and earphones are illegal when operating a vehicle in Colorado too.

Actually, bicycles are considered vehicles in all 50 states, and while I haven't checked the vehicle code for all states, I suspect that earphones being illegal is more common than not.

If anyone is interested or curious about the laws in their own state (or province), MassBike has a page that links to laws pertaining to bicycles in all of the US states and most of the Canada provinces, along with a few other countries: http://www.massbike.org/bikelaw/index.htm.

--- Denise

[Dogmama]

I never wear headphones & steer very clear of those who do because they tend to be in their own little world and startle easily when I come up behind them (read: often jump in my path.) I want to be 110% aware of my surroundings. If I hear a car slowing down behind me, for example, that is a big clue that it might make a right hand turn in front of me.

If wind noise is a bother, you can find small wind-ear blocks that mount to your helmet. It might take a bit of searching but they're out there.

On a personal note, I find music distracting. I want to be able to think, observe and generally enjoy being out in nature. I wear my headphones in the gym where blocking out conversations, overhead music and grunts is important. ;)

[Pedal Wench]

I was thinking about this out on my ride yesterday. As I said earlier, I use one earbud, but only when I'm on a path - it's a rail-to-trail path - incredibly straight, flat, and boring - especially when I'm doing centuries on it. The music keeps me motivated and keeps the pace up. I know that people argue that on the road you need to be focused, and I fully agree. But, yesterday, out on the road, without music, I got so lost in my thoughts that I realized I was paying no attention at all to the road. A pothole caught my attention, and I realized I had drifted far out into the lane. When I'm on the path, with music, my focus stays on the path ahead - the music actually keeps my mind right in the moment. Just my two pennies...

[joyrider]

I think it may be true that some naturally alert individuals can handle riding with headphones. I'm not one of those people.

[snowtulip]

I personally love the quiet when I'm out in the mountains and don't listen to music. I am also easily distracted so I don't believe I could listen to headphones on the road (it would be bad for me and others around me).

But my hubby rides everywhere and he's using one earbud and leaves the other out. He is the most alert rider I know even with one ear with music. It seems to depend on how alert you are as an individual.

Unfortunatley even those that know they are not alert still wear headphones.

[RoadRaven]

Interesting thread

I have been seriously contemplating getting an MP3 player for when I start serious time trial training... however I have only considered using one earphone, which would not give stereo but I would feel vulnerable with both ears covered with music

Like so many others in this thread, I find the whistle of the wind a 'deafening' noise, in that I can't tell on a windy day whether it is wind in the trees or just wind in my ears!

I am experimenting at the moment at making weirdly shaped head n\bands (which I wear wnyway, that cover my ears)

I figure the right material and cut will imporove the path of the wind over my ears without reducing the sound

I have found that positining of helmet straps can have an effect on wind noise too...

[KkAllez]

This is an interesting topic. I am nearly deaf, so I have to rely heavily on my husband to alert me that a car is coming up from behind. That is a BIG reason why I don't ride alone. Having him help hasn't made me lazy though, I tend to constantly check behind and am always asking him, "is a car coming, is a car coming?" I never realized that headphones could be illegal.

How do I make it in nursing not being able to hear well? I've got one darn good stethoscope. I swear, I could hear a gnat fart in Africa with it. :eek:

[SadieKate]

Since this was a recent topic of conversation, I thought it interesting that this was recently published on www.velonews.com. Mionske makes some very interesting points, particularly the part about recovering damages stemming from an accident. You can read all his legal disclaimers (blah-blah-blah fine print) on VeloNews' website.

Legally Speaking with Bob Mionske: Listen up!
By Robert Mionske, JD
This report filed August 4, 2005

Hi, Bob,
As a lawyer (corporate securities) and a wanna-be road racer, I always enjoy reading your column. Have you ever covered the legalities of using an iPod or other player, with headphones, on the road? Guys I know get tickets for this in California; I live in Texas. I think somewhere I read it might make a difference if you use one earpiece instead of both. I see more and more guys with 'em in and thought it might make an interesting column.
P.H.
Austin, Texas

Dear Paul,
When I was pursuing my racing career I passed the many, many hours of lonely riding listening to music and talk radio on my earphones. I became so addicted to this form of distraction that I would panic when my batteries ran low. I even wore them on group rides with teammates who took the respite from my constant chatter as a gift and never complained. I was never stopped by police, and the legality of this habit was never called into question.

Many of us have heard about President Bush's much-publicized mountain biking with his iPod, but whether you can listen to your personal music device while riding depends on where you do it. In some states it is illegal to have any sort of headphone covering your ears while operating a motor vehicle or bicycle. Florida law, for example, states, "No person shall operate a vehicle while wearing a headset, headphone, or other listening device" (Section 316.304). In other states the law permits wearing headphones as long as one ear remains uncovered, and in still others wearing both earpieces may be permitted. Finally, in many states there is no law on the books at all. The absence of a law does not necessarily mean wearing headphones is permitted, though; the best course would be to check with your local department of vehicles.

Even in states that have laws on the books, the legality of headphone use while riding is confusing. For example, while Florida bans the use of headphones, there is an exception for using a cell phone with a headset that "only provides sound through one ear and allows surrounding sounds to be heard with the other ear." Is this the equivalent of listening to music with one earpiece out (which, parenthetically, produces an awful sound)? In your question you referenced people getting ticketed in California, where the law states, "A person operating a motor vehicle or bicycle may not wear a headset covering, or earplugs in, both ears" (CA Vehicle Code Section 27400). This would suggest that listening to headphones is permitted if you have only one earpiece in, but again the law is not as clear as it could be.

Much of the recent legislation that has been passed has been driven by the prevalence of people talking on their cell phones while driving. We can expect in the near future to see more and more states enacting laws prohibiting or restricting this activity (such as requiring the use of hands-free devices). Whether these laws will affect headphone use by cyclists remains to be seen, but clearly the risks are not the same. Nevertheless, keep an eye out in your own state for a change in the law that may affect you as a cyclist.

Laws banning the use of headphones while driving or biking assume that headphones will block out important background sounds such as horns and sirens and that such use is unsafe. In addition, nearly every bicycle-safety advocate I have encountered believes it is better to forgo the headphones. Of course, someone telling you that it is not safe to ride with headphones on does not mean it is against the law to do so. It is interesting to note that deaf individuals are permitted to drive and that nothing stops you from battering your eardrums into oblivion inside your car by blasting your stereo.

Lastly, if you are using a personal music device and are injured in an accident with a negligent driver, it is certain that the insurance company will attempt to pin some or all the blame on you, making recovery of your damages more difficult.

Good luck,
Bob
(research and drafting assistance provided by Lewis & Clark Law School Law School student Bryan Rousseau)

[betagirl]

There's an article in this month's bicycling magazine about riding with tunes. It warns about the dangers that have been reviewed here but seems to be somewhat "ok" with riding. Of course the disclaimer to check local laws, etc.

[Kimred]

I would never wear headphones. I'm a very "defensive"rider. I like to hear everything. I feel I can hear cars coming up on me, especially if they are too close. After years of riding I am very in tune with the sound. Especially woman riding alone it's just not safe. Nope not for me.

Kim

[tatormc]

The article in Bicycling made note that the state of Oklahoma bans head tunes altogether which I agree with. I'm a person who loves music and listens to it all the time but the combination of me and headphones on a bike is not a good thing.

[Saxa82]

I listen to my iPod on all my rides except when I ride with someone else. I was a little skittish at first but I bought myself a 20$ bar end mirror that is hands down the BEST safety investment I have made (besides my helmet of course). I don't have to keep looking back for cars, I can see then way behind me before I need to make a left turn, and so on. I never though I would ever need a mirror and after riding 20 years I finally have one and simply cannot ride without now. When I bought my new bike this summer the first few rides were without a mirror and I felt a bit nervous. Putting the mirror on was the first upgrade I made. I urge you if you listen to music to get some kind of mirror- either bar end or helmet.

[MomOnBike]

My thoughts on the whole headphones thing:

As usual, it depends. In traffic situations, you need all your attention focused on the situation. Traffic, BTW, can include everything from Boston streets to a crowded bike path. I wouldn't feel safe listening to tunes there.

In less congested situations, it might be OK, especially if you are using the music to set a tempo for your spin, although a metronome on your bars could work just as well.

In any case, leaving the traffic side ear uncovered is probably a good idea.

I'd use headphones in certain situations. DH and I have been discussing having 2-way radios on in town so we don't have to scream at each other. (Car back! Pothole! Glass!) These would also be handy on a tour, since we don't always ride at the same pace. (Stopping for a picture. Car back.) I could argue that they are a safety device, as we are both watching out for each other.

I've also thought that on tour through long stretches, say the sandhills of Nebraska, a recorded book would enhance the experience. Preferably a book that has something to do with the area you are touring. That could be just nice.

[juvel01]

Well, I'm on the "its ok if you only have one ear covered" side. I have an iPaq with a wireless BlueTooth headset that I wear to listen to music or (egad) talk on the phone. I can say that I have never had an issue not hearing anything. In fact, the way the earpiece sits on my ear I have less wind noise with no sound coming through it. I havent been pulled over yet. I find that I ride better with music and I'm trying to put together a selection where the bpm will dictate my cadence.

[bluerider]

I ride alone all the time on average for 2 hours per ride and understand how tunes can make the ride so much enjoyable. That being said, I NEVER NEVER NEVER ride with headphones. I have an iPod Shuffle and could listen easily with it tucked in my jersey but cannot do it for sake of my SAFETY. No matter how low you turn your volume it’s a distraction. I understand the motivation of music because I cannot run without. I am guilty of doing it when I run at night which is quite dangerous. That being said I would never ride with tunes. You need all your senses alert when riding with cars.

[mtnmunch]

While I am new to riding again. When I rode as a kid, I had a handle bar mounted radio, it was big, but it did the job.

I don't ride on roads, so my 0.02 are only from riding on trails. If I'm not feeling very motivated, I put my headphones in one ear and put some techno on, which usually gets me moving and not so down about the hill I'm climbing up.

With regards to riding on the road. Cars have stereos, and turned up loud enough, which many people do, the driver can not hear a car beeping, a cop coming up or anything else for that matter. With newer cars, sound proofing is done so well you don't hear any road noise.

So you have people behind the wheel of 1000lb vehicles who can't hear any better than someone with headphones on a bike.

With most open ear headphones, I don't think in one ear is going to kill someone. I think eye sight would be far more important than hearing.

Are they going to ban someone who is deaf from riding a bike?

jm2c

Forgot to add...motorcyclists...I don't understand how they can hear anything, or hear for that matter when they get off. It's deafening to me.

[Jo-n-NY]

I guess because this thread keeps getting pulled up to the top I will also add my 2 cents. I do ride listening to music with just one ear (IRiver which I do not recommend, not a good choice if you ask me) plugged. It is legal to ride that way according to the NYS cycling road rules. But to be honest, I consentrate so much on what I am doing there are many times I must tune it out. I get to a song and think of one that was suppose to play before it and oops guess I missed it. So I enjoy it on the peaceful part of my ride and automatically tune it out in traffic areas.

What I cannot do is talk on my cell (using the ear piece) and drive at the same time. If someone calls I either ignore it and wait until I can pull over or talk real fast and say I will call back or if someone is in the car, I have them get it.

~ JoAnn

[PinkRacer]

I like to wear one ear in. I have an iPod but I just got this new toy and love it for my daily commute ride. http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.gsp?product_id=3756869 it is so tiny and light!

I agree also tune out the music in high traffic areas, The music helps me concentrate on my pace.

What really gets me the most are the people cycling along while speaking on their cell phone (no ear bug etc... ) I usually have mine on me but have never answered it while riding...

[jjcac1]

I was questioning the whole music thing as a new rider. I plan on doing a lot of back roads training and love to listen to music. It really helps the time fly. I too felt it wasn't safe to wear both headphones, and don't really thing headphones are all that comfy w/ glasses.

My question.. does anyone know if there is any kind of "headphone" type device that you could wear around your neck or helmet that would just play music around your head? I know that a couple of ladies have rigged earphones onto their helmet?? Could you maybe explain this? Would this concept even work?

Thanks so much...

[Duck on Wheels]

I vaguely recall seeing ads for an expensive toy some years back that, claim was, transmitted hifi sound via your collarbone -- lay around your neck and rested on the collarbone in front. Probably kinda heavy. And if it's no longer available that's prob'ly cuz it didn't work all that well.

I've been thinking on this problem since spending all winter doing spin classes to be in some approximation of shape for a ride in March. The music in spin class really helps keep your cadence -- and humor -- up. I've also gone out and bought some of the music our spin instructor plays. I play it on the mp3 while walking (e.g. 6 miles to work). Definitely gets me going faster, but it's also a bit distracting. I'll miss it on the bike, but I don't dare use it. Not even in one ear. At bike speeds I need to have all my attention on the road, the riders around me, the traffic coming up from behind, cross streets, gravel, potholes, remembering to call out warnings, use hand signals ... At walking speeds I can have some attention to spare, but not on a bike.

Too bad tho'. The drums at the start of Paul Simon: Rhythm of the Saints have me imagining the stop-and-go start of a ride with lots of bikes around, lots of enthusiasm and intermittently space to use it. Next piece has an instrument that sounds like a bike-spoke harp: I imagine finding my rhythm, smooth, open road, not too slow but relaxed enough to do the distance. The cadence picks up, slows down song by song. A few pieces later come some wake-up horns just when the music has you in a bit of a trance, or the spin class has you worn down to one. I can envisage a whole ride to that music, or Carmina Burana, or my brother's new blues album Rude Notes Galore, or sailiing along with the most bewinged movements of my favourite violin concertos (Mendelssohn and Sibelius) ... but I don't dare actually have any of it along.

[sydney_b]

When I ride alone, I always bring my iPod. I keep the volume low enough where I can hear what's going on around me. I don't ever ride with headphones with others though, so I can hear communications etc. So you're not the only rule breaker :) I know in some states it's actually illegal to ride with headphones, but I don't think I've ever heard of anyone getting pulled over.

I'm with you Betagirl. iPod when alone and nothing when with others. I find the earbuds don't interfere with traffic noise very much and have had no problems so far.

:)

[Trek420]

on rides I prefer the sounds of the great outdoors which is traffic and noise on my commute or birds and chirping on longer rides.

I'm aware of some hearing loss so I don't dare dampen my senses any further with even one ear bud.

Warning: want music on your ride? You'll want to pass me. I sing on hills, and badly too I might add :D

I can't promise Mendelssohn or Sibelius, usually disco or R&B :) anything with a good beat that sticks in my mind and yours too if you're nearby :o

[Pedal Wench]

JJ,
I'm not sure if I posted this earlier - sorry if I did.

When I'm on the road, I don't use anything, but I do on the bike path. I have a pair of headphones with a solid band, not the earbud type. I use one side only, but I don't put it in my ear - I just position it 'near' my ear and turn up the level. No, I can't hear every nuance and detail of the music. It's almost just a reminder of what the song is that's playing. I just started to use it to help with training and doing intervals. One song fast, one song recover.



I was questioning the whole music thing as a new rider. I plan on doing a lot of back roads training and love to listen to music. It really helps the time fly. I too felt it wasn't safe to wear both headphones, and don't really thing headphones are all that comfy w/ glasses.

My question.. does anyone know if there is any kind of "headphone" type device that you could wear around your neck or helmet that would just play music around your head? I know that a couple of ladies have rigged earphones onto their helmet?? Could you maybe explain this? Would this concept even work?

Thanks so much...

[LauraPaura]

I listen to music when I ride on bikeroads (don't know what they're called, the special paths made just for riding and walking) but not in the city. I think it's easier to keep up a good pace with some music (I listen to dance/trance music..). I listen to music all the time anyway and I always have my nice small MP3 player with me. I also ALWAYS carry an extra battery with me just in case ;)

Even if I didin't listen to music I would keep those things in my ears because they block the wind very effectively.

I don't think it's illegal here in Finland to listen to these while driving anything.. Not sure though.

[Duck on Wheels]

JJ,
I'm not sure if I posted this earlier - sorry if I did.

When I'm on the road, I don't use anything, but I do on the bike path. I have a pair of headphones with a solid band, not the earbud type. I use one side only, but I don't put it in my ear - I just position it 'near' my ear and turn up the level. No, I can't hear every nuance and detail of the music. It's almost just a reminder of what the song is that's playing. I just started to use it to help with training and doing intervals. One song fast, one song recover.

Now that I can see might work. It would take some tweeking to find a headphone that will sit off-kilter neither disturbing nor disturbed by helmet. Also, when on a quiet path I might rather hear the birds (bike path near my Mom's place goes through a meadow with lots of redwing blackbirds all competing for territory -- maybe not what the other blackbirds like to hear, but music to MY ears :D ). But for some settings and as musical motivation during a workout ... yeah. I can see the off-ear headphone system working. I'll keep it in mind.

[Duck on Wheels]

Warning: want music on your ride? You'll want to pass me. I sing on hills, and badly too I might add :D

I can't promise Mendelssohn or Sibelius, usually disco or R&B :) anything with a good beat that sticks in my mind and yours too if you're nearby :o

Oh dear! Brain sludge! :eek: "I'm a lumberjack and I'm OK, I sleep all night and I work all day" over and over. Only cure for brain sludge is replacement -- sing another song until it nudges sludge 1 out of brain, then hope the new song doesn't mutate into new sludge. Everybody who expects to do a hill anywhere near Trek on the Cindy, you are hereby forewarned: better prepare a mental playlist of replacement songs. :rolleyes:

[Brandi]

I ride with music it helps motivate me to ride faster. it makes me happy.:D I listen to u2 and and a group called the john Butler trio If you haven't heard of them check them out. Sooo good. They are from down under. A bit of jazz meets reggae and aussie mixed in.

[allabouteva]

I'm not one to preach, but I was interested in this thread, because recently in Australia, this was a big news story which I've cut and pasted from our local newspaper (Sydney Morning Herald):

iPod blamed for Aussie death
February 14, 2006

An Australian woman was knocked off her bike and killed, possibly because she couldn't hear traffic noise because of her iPod music device, friends say.

Patricia McMillan was knocked from her bike in a London street and thrown under the wheels of a lorry near her home in Acton, west London, on February 2, reported Britain's Evening Standard newspaper.

The 32-year-old law student had been on her way to a part-time job as a waitress in Kensington when the crash happened, the newspaper reported.

Ms McMillan's best friend, Jacques Poullard, said she may still have been alive if she hadn't been listening to the Apple iPod.

"She was obsessed by that thing. It wasn't that she was careless. I bought her the bike three years ago and it was how she travelled everywhere.

"I never said anything to her about wearing the iPod but now I think if she hadn't had it on she might have heard the lorry.

"I hope people will think twice about cycling while wearing headphones."

[Dogmama]

You're singing my song (pun intended.) Even on a bike path, listening to music is not good. Statistically speaking, we run into each other more often than we have automobile related accidents. OK, if you're wearing a helmet (and OF COURSE all of us TE'ers do that, right.....???) chances are you won't die if struck by another cyclist. But you could certainly get pretty banged up, including broken bones, road rash, etc. and it would keep you off your bike for awhile.

And why would anybody want to listen to music when they could listen to the birds? Or, better yet, tap into their own essence and enjoy being alive without head banging music. That is what cycling brings to me. I save the music for rush hour traffic in my car (when tapping into my essence isn't good for the guy I'm following :eek: )

[Duck on Wheels]

I'm not one to preach, but I was interested in this thread, because recently in Australia, this was a big news story which I've cut and pasted from our local newspaper (Sydney Morning Herald):

iPod blamed for Aussie death
February 14, 2006

An Australian woman was knocked off her bike and killed, possibly because she couldn't hear traffic noise because of her iPod music device, friends say. ..."

Yes, maybe she could have avoided the accident if she'd heard the lorry. But if that lorry was coming up from behind her (as it sounds from the story) it's still the lorry driver's fault. Oh, I'm sure the lorry company and their insurance company will try blaming the victim here. And I don't advise wearing headphones in traffic! Little comfort in having been right after the accident has happened. But that said, if somebody hits you from behind, it's their fault!

[SadieKate]

But that said, if somebody hits you from behind, it's their fault!I don't think we can make any assumptions. I see way too many people who can't ride a straight line and swerve all over the place. They can't look over their shoulder without swerving out into traffic. We can't tell if the cyclist was doing everything absolutely right.

Last year I knocked down another cyclist because he made a left turn in front of me without looking (even in his giant side mirror). He and all the witnesses kept saying it wasn't my fault. If I hadn't knocked him down, one of the rush hour cars would have with far greater consequences - and not been at fault.

Without the nitty-gritty details, we can't assume anything.

[Brandi]

I only wear my mp3 when I am on the country road not while I am on the city streets. To me you are testing fate there. You need all your sences when riding in the city. It's confusing enough just walking. I wonder how many cyclists are killed every year and how many people just walking are killed?:confused:

[carback]

I don't listen to anything other than the sounds around me when I ride (and when I used to run).

As a woman riding / running alone, I feel a very strong need to be aware of what's going on around me at all times. Much like body posture dictating whether I look confident or vulnerable (an easy target), sporting headphones/ear buds (one or two), gives off an air of vulnerability, regardless of how much you can or cannot hear.

[Lifesgreat]

I listen to music while training inside, but never outside.

First, for safety. I want to listen for autos, other riders, dogs, and heaven forbid, perverts.

Second, for habit. Music is forbidden in USAT triathlons and I want to train as I will race.

Third, to hear the sounds around me. I want to hear the wind in the trees and the river roaring as I ride up the trail.

My 2 cents

[salsabike]

I agree. I would never consider blocking out the sounds of the environment I am riding through. It's our responsibility to stay as safe as possible when riding - and keeping focused on the sights and sounds of the road is much more important than listening to your favorite music.

--- Denise

I couldn't agree more.

[Andi]

I was wondering if many people rode listening to music. I don't care for music but have loaded some audio novels on my mp3 player. Want to try listening to those when riding on our many bike trails - but not the road. Thought I'd try with just listening with the right ear and leave the ear bud off the left one to listen. Will let you know how it works.

[Dogmama]

<WARNING - MOTHER HAT ON>

Riding is inherently dangerous. We need to pay attention to everything no matter where we're riding. One of my worst accidents was due to inattention to the road - didn't see that big old rock because I was daydreaming. Listening to music or audio tapes takes your attention off of the task at hand.

One of the joys of riding is being in nature and fully experiencing Her majesty. That includes the sounds of birds, the wind, streams. For me, there is also the feeling that you cannot get through the usual senses that this is "what it is all about." The peace and serenity. The inner knowing that the world is a good place. I can't get that with U2 banging in my eardrums.

I save the headphones for the gym where I WANT to drown out the noise and escape into my own world.

[Trek420]

Sorry to be blunt but:

Where is the jersey that says "Unplug and ride"?

Unless you MUST drown out the infernal sound of my singing ;) I invite you to sing louder than me.

Inside, gym, spin class, on the trainer...bring on the noise.

I admit being a bit of a Ludite, plus the meditative/contemplative aspect of the sport, and what others have said-safety first~gotta be aware. That's aware of your suroundings, the bike (what was that clicking or noise?)...

[Tater]

I don't listen to anything other than the sounds around me when I ride (and when I used to run).

As a woman riding / running alone, I feel a very strong need to be aware of what's going on around me at all times. Much like body posture dictating whether I look confident or vulnerable (an easy target), sporting headphones/ear buds (one or two), gives off an air of vulnerability, regardless of how much you can or cannot hear.

I agree! As a lone female, biker/runner, I too need to be aware of what goes on around me. Whether it is that redneck hanging out the passenger side window to gawk and make rude comments, or that small, four legged ankle biter yapping at my heels, I need to know where they are and what their intentions are. Some can ride with music, more power to you sister, it just isn't for me.

[ladyjai]

last I checked - 3 weeks ago - bicycles are NOT considered vehicles in arizona. I was shocked to discover that. Doesn't mean we get off scott-free or have no rights. We have rights and penalties. Just, no motor, no vehicle.

I do not recall reading any laws pertaining to music, but I have no interest in being hit a third time.

I do admit to listening to music in my college days. - or rather, trying to. I live in a very busy city. Many cars moving quickly. If the speed limit says 35, you can expect that most are going 45-50.
I figured, if I kept one ear unplugged, I should be able to hear cars and such and know my danger level. I thought a little soft music would be a nice addition. However, the soft music was not to be obtained, I had to turn the volume level up to very unsafe volumes to be able to make out a thing with my right ear as the noise of the city is very loud. It didn't even last the full 3 miles I was riding before I unplugged it to allow my raging headache to subside. the two loud noises made a disaster in the making. i think i tried it once again, with a "quieter" road, and had similar results. I abandoned them as dead weight.

I find I don't need it. If I want music, I'll provide my own, and let those who can hear, deal. Otherwise, if I'm bored enough to need music - i'm not riding hard enough, :rolleyes:

I'm sure there are those who can get away with music and still be safe. But I imagine that number is much smaller than those who listen here think. I would say that if you rely on your "safe routes" and "mild streets" to be validate your choice, please seriously reconsider.

Right now, and probably for the next three months, I am excruciatingly aware of my vulnerability. I've decided that If a human uses wheels to move from one place to another, it is not a matter of if, but when she/he will have an accident. Unlike cars, we do not have crunchable metal cases around our bodies, we must take the brunt of the onslaught with our flesh. I love bicycling. I'm back riding in traffic, and I do not mean to scare anyone off. Just realize that our love has danger attached, ride defensively, it can save your neck. All you need is one car. or a motorcycle, or another bicycle, or heck, anything that can move! to come along and ruin your day, week, year, life.
I'm not pointing fingers, nor do I want you to take offense. Instead, I am asking those who listen, to please carefully reevaluate their choice and make sure they are genuinely ones who can get away with it.

If you would not ride with music on roads with heavy traffic, you should not do it on roads that have the potential for even the lightest of traffic.

It only takes one.

[Trek420]

I sometimes feel there's enough fear warnings in our lives, we're women and we're all aware "don't go here, don't do that", we hear that all our lives.

We're all carefull out there. One thing we have not discussed here is our hearing.

There's a lot of press about Ipods and hearing such as:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4673584.stm

I'm here to tell you it's true.

I work on the phone all day, the customers I talk to are disabled, most hearing impaired. I like my job and most of my customers are lovely but they have no clue how loud they are. They don't hear themselves so I don't hear them either, right? Even with my phone turned down to the lowest setting, headset on the back of my head, I now wear earplugs...it's still loud enough that I know my hearing's been effected.

If you ever meet me, I'm not ignoring you it's possible I don't hear you. I love my job but I'm putting in for transfers.

Once it's gone gals, it's gone. Your hearing is a gift, protect it.

Protect your hearing.