I don't ride bike paths, but I do mtn bike on deserted trails. On our women's mtn bike ride the other night, we were having a discussion about riding alone. Most of us do it on the open road all the time without any fear or hesitation. However, most of us also said that we wouldn't mtn bike alone. Why? Safety. The overwhelming feeling is that too many bad things can happen to you when no one's around to see. And, if something bad happens, no one might pass by to find you.

I know many less experienced riders like to ride on bike paths because they don't feel comfortable riding on the road. However, don't lull yourself into a sense of safety.

This is a tragic event and I hope you're all safe and aware when you ride!