When a Bike Bell Rings…
…Nothing happens at all.
Nope, absolutely nothing. Even with the loudest, biggest bells I can find nobody hears me coming on my bike.
I’d get a horn, but I really don’t want to contribute to the stress of the city. It would make much more sense to do the reverse.
I know a few people that use Airzounds while riding in the city, and while I always thought it seemed a bit rude it certainly seems to get the attention of motorists!
Around here, even bells on MUPs do nothing. I have to give the nicest “Passing on your left!” I can manage in order for people to even consider moving.
I’m a bit interested in the Orp horn- it has two settings- Excuuuuuse You! and OHMYGODYOUALMOSTKILLEDME!! Plus it’s a light.
I use my bell almost exclusively for pedestrians, and yell Oi! which is nice and percussive, and cannot be mistaken for anything obscene, or “Heads Up,” with a nice popped P at the end.
Screeching brakes is the best thing I have ever tried. Everyone, even people in their cars, stop and pay attention. It’s awesome. I used to think I needed to get it fixed, but I totally changed my mind.
I know! Brake squeal is a feature, not a problem. I found it very handy, but now I have new wheels and new brakes and nothing squeals anymore.
I’ve been thinking a need a bell for the commute in Cambridge but maybe I need a really loud bell. Maybe a fog horn, like the portable one kayakers use.
Following on cycler, I like Heads Up, which I use in all sorts of circumstances.
Currently waiting on both the Loud Bicycle Horn and Orp Smart Horn (both Kickstarters) to make it into my hands. 🙂