Excuses? Or legitimate fears?

[mtkitchn]

Well, I haven't ridden in Phoenix for a few weeks since it's so doggone hot. Just when I think I'll give it a go anyway, one of the serial killers we have down here shoots a bicyclist! My husband doesn't want me out riding (since I ride alone in the dark to beat the worst of the heat), and I'm starting to wonder if it's worth it myself with all the crazies down here. Am I just feeding myself excuses? Should I stick to the gym for a while?

[suhollyberry]

Yikes! That's scary!

Why don't you just try to go earlier in the morning and find a riding partner. Also, stay in more populated areas. Maybe that will help?

[mtkitchn]

Hi suhollyberry (nice handle....makes me think of Christmas!),
I've been looking without luck for a riding partner since I started riding ( I ride weekday mornings, usually Tues-Thurs). I actually live in a well populated area, and the shootings are occurring in well populated areas. I might have to change my work schedule so I can ride on the weekends with the bike club. I guess I shouldn't let fear run my life, but what to do with the husband??? Can't get him out on a bike.....and can't convince him that I'll be safe....

[mimitabby]

Have i got this right, someone is specifically shooting at bicyclists?

[Cassandra_Cain]

Hey - I would never tell you to feel safe or unsafe - I mean that's a very personal choice obviously.

Still, one of the realities of living in a big city, is of course, crime. It happens every day, yet we carry on with our lives, oftentimes largely unaware. Ditto with accidents and so on.

I would ride in whatever environment/circumstance you feel comfortable with - if it is group rides only, so be it, or if you feel good solo, then go for it.

[mtkitchn]

Hi Mimi,
This guy is shooting at lots of people, it seems he just chose a bicyclist for his latest victim. We also have a serial rapist/murderer running around as well, so there are two locos out there (as well as the usual big city crazies).
Cassandra,
Good advice. I will probably stick to the gym while it's so hot anyway, and maybe get back out on the roads when it cools down and I can ride during the day.....

Thanks for the replies, ladies!

[dobielover1]

I don't think a crazy with a gun is considered an excuse...I'd worry if you didn't question your safety.

[hsmpcycle]

I heard about this on the news. IS this individual targeting people in a specific area of the city or at random locations?

I think the gym is a wise choice. I can't imagine one minute riding and enjoying the experience and the next thing I know I am on the ground with a bullet in my body. That just makes my skin crawl.

[Brandy]

I don't think that's an excuse...it actually sounds like a smart move to stay off the streets right now. That is so scary. I read an article when some of the forum members were talking about it a few weeks ago...is he still confined to a general area?

If I was in Arizona right now I'd drive up to Sedona and get some cooler riding in for a day...of course, I'll use anything as an excuse to visit Sedona.

[maillotpois]

I think the gym is sounding pretty good....

[Brandy]

Wow...that latest shooting took place right near the house where my dh lived when we met. Too scary, I think I'd be too nervous to ride.

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepu...shoot0725.html

[chickwhorips]

is this new shooter also the baseline killer or another one?

haven't heard this one yet.

wow i'm glad i moved when i did!

[CycleTherapy]

Chickw...
Two separate "perps"....serial shooter and a serial rapist.

[chickwhorips]

Chickw...
Two separate "perps"....serial shooter and a serial rapist.

same area of the valley or different?

[DDH]

Not an excuse in my opinion. Sounds like the safer thing to do. If you are able to go to the gym, even though it isn't the same as riding, thats what I would do. The bike will still be there when this guy is caught.