Rider Spotlight
Kevin Wood
How long have you been bicycling and how did you get started?
I have been biking since I was little, and when I first moved to San Diego I didn't have a car so I biked everywhere.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get started going by bike?
Start small by replacing some short trips in the neighborhood by bike, and work up to longer rides. You don't need a fancy road bike or any special clothing for most rides. Racks or baskets are great for carrying things, and make sure you have a lock or a safe place to park.
How do protected bike lanes support your commute?
I am way more comfortable in a protected lane when I am biking with my kids. I use the green lanes on University Avenue in Hillcrest to take my kids to preschool, and then the lanes going down Fourth Avenue when I need to get Downtown.
Where are your favorite places to bike to in San Diego?
Through Balboa Park and the Uptown neighborhoods (North Park and University Heights), and also the San Diego River bike path from Ocean Beach to Mission Valley.
What makes San Diego a great place to bike?
- Infrastructure is improving; drivers are generally chill (at least compared to Los Angeles, where I lived for two years)
- Great weather and lots of things you can bike to like the park, farmer's markets and street fairs.
What's the one thing you think people should know about biking?
You see a ton more when you are on a bike. You notice storefronts and flowers in people's yards, you can say hi to other folks on the street. It is a ride, not a race. Take your time and enjoy being outside!