Riding without a cell phone?

[DeniseGoldberg]

...I do have address stickers on my bike that include our home phone and my husband's cell phone numbers, and want to do something a little more visible in that regard.

I'd recommend carrying your emergency contact information on you - not stuck to your bike. If you get in an accident, the bike doesn't go with you to the hospital...

--- Denise

[MomOnBike]

I try to remember that cell phones are a recent invention and that people lived happy, productive, and reasonably safe lives before they were invented.

Sometimes I take mine, sometimes not. When I took my tour I called home every night, but that was mostly so DH could update the journal. I really didn't need it.

[SimpleCycle]

there's a fine balance between carrying a cell phone as a tool, and using it lieu of being self sufficient.[generalization] I hear so much stuff where people dont' develop skills becuase they have a cell phone - whether it's basic repairs, navigation skills, trouble shooting, awareness of danger.
-If the weather changes, I'll just make a call
-if I break down, I'll just make a call
-if I get lost, I'll just make a call
-if I am in danger, I'll call 911.

etc. This is sort of an overview, not specific to cycling. I think a cell phone is really false security, you need to know how to take care of yourself.

I think you make an excellent point. I really would only need it for an absolute emergency that would necessitate 911. For that, I can carry my cell with no plan. It is in fact true that you can always dial 911 from a cell, even with no service plan. They told me that when I cancelled my old phone.

The reasons I've been thinking about lately are situations I could prevent or solve on my own. I've been worried about getting lost or separated from my group (carry the cue sheet/map, know the route) or having mechanical problems on the way to the start of a group ride (they'll either leave without me or come find me, I can fix my bike) or being out solo and having some sort of situation that warrents a ride home rather than an ambulance (probably something I can figure out without the cell).

I made it the first 22 years of my life without a cell phone, and the last year as well. I may decide at some point I want one for convenience or logistical reasons, but I think I'm probably safe without one, or with the one that can call 911.

Denise, those Road ID things are cool. Which kind do you have? I was thinking the ankle one might work well, especially for my commute, where I may or may not have my wallet and ID on me at any given time. And it occurs to me that people might not think to look in my seat bag or backpack for ID.

[DeniseGoldberg]

Denise, those Road ID things are cool. Which kind do you have? I was thinking the ankle one might work well, especially for my commute, where I may or may not have my wallet and ID on me at any given time. And it occurs to me that people might not think to look in my seat bag or backpack for ID.

I actually have two. I have a ShoeID that I use with my running shoes. I thought I would use that one for my biking shoes too, but I found that I prefer the Fixx - on a chain around my neck - for cycling. A couple of the guys I work with ride too, and they both have the ankle ID. Oh, and I have information on both sides of my ID. On the ShoeID, I used the last line of the front to say "see reverse" - all of the IDs other than the Fixx are curved and attached to a strap, so it's a little less obvious that there is info on both sides. If you want to use both sides you'll need to order your ID over the phone rather than on the web site.

--- Denise

[RoadRaven]

I got a cell phone when I started studying in 1996 (LOL, a 'mature' student), so that when I was driving to/from home I could ring my partner if I got stuck or broke down...

Then I started work after graduating, and biking and its just piece of mind for me and for my family.

My boys have cell phones too now, and my DH... and its such a relief.

DH has had several rides where he has 2-3 flats and he can just ring up and get a lift.

[wingsonwheels]

I wear the Road ID ( the neck chain), carry a cell, and also the basics for fixing a flat (or two)... and extra food, gel, etc.

The cell towers work pretty well in my area, so that's not an issue. I try to cover the bases as far as unpredictable outcomes.

[bouncybouncy]

first: I have no land line...I use only a cell phone because it is cost efficient when calling family & friends out of state. I have learned that I am not captive to thing!!! I have programmed certain ring tones for certain people so I can answer selectivly (I always answer my Mom's call ) It seems hard for many people to comprehend that I reserve the right to answer when I am available...ie: out to dinner=don't answer; at work and busy=don't answer; sitting around enjoying a summer beverage=answer...it really is that simple

second: I have the GPS thingy to so I have peace of mind if I do not show up and a crew needs to search...they have a lead!!!

third: I can call to get myself out of a jam...if need be!

I do not think of it as a crutch or a jail sentence...just a convenient tool to increase my own safety (especially in the world we live in, unfortunately)