I got tired of shouting "on your left" to all the dog walkers, runners, etc. along my commuting route, so I picked up an Incredibell. Now I've got the power. People stand up and take notice. It's a bit like having a siren. Move over you Ipod-wearing, no paying attention, slow-ass dog-walkin...ok...you've got every right to be on the path too.
The Incredibell is great because I don't actually have to engage with the other path users. I just flick that bell and they seem to straighten up...move over...and are ready for the Gman to pass. When I would yell "on your left" they would get spooked all Jamie Lee Curtis Halloween style and actually move left...right in my way. They would always seem annoyed too. Now I give them a quick "TING" (I think that's how it sounds) and a "thanks" as I pass. Everyone seems happier.
Another advantage is that I can be proactive with the bell. On blind corners I can ting that little thing in anticipation of walkers just around the bend. Shouting to oneself when no one is around just feels stupid.
I went for a mountain bike ride last night and missed the Incredibell. It might serve a different purpose for the trail. I could ting that thing to warn those behind that something is coming like another rider, an unusual obstacle, or horse shit (the worst of all possible obstacles.) There was no doubt that other riders on the trail knew I was coming. The spring on my suspension was squeaking like Hugh Hefner's bed on a Saturday night (is he still alive?). I've got to get better with the wrench.
Yesterday we were supposed to go to the Snow Patrol concert, but the singer got laryngitis and had to postpone. I think I'm going to upgrade my rating on the new album to four stars. While there are no real break out hits as with the preceding album, the whole album is very listenable and has character...just give it a chance.
