Bike Newton invites you on their first group ride of the year – the 8 mile “Noodle Ride”
Join us for our first group ride of the year! And this is a special ride we are calling the “Noodle Ride”. (No joke!) We’re going to tie swimming noodles (or similar) to our bikes to help make drivers aware of the new Pedestrian and Biking Safety Law that was passed by the Mass. Legislature in January 2023, and goes into effect on April 2nd! Follow the link above for details of the new law, however one major stipulation in the law is that all vehicles must give at least a four-foot clearance when passing bikes, pedestrians, wheel chairs or any other non-motorized traveler in the roadway. The bike route itself will take us on an 8.3 mile loop through the scenic villages of Newton Center, Waban, West Newton and Newtonville.
Meet in front of the Newton Main library on Homer St. in Newton Center. Attach a noodle to your bike similar to the picture, or bring a noodle and a bungee cord or some string and we’ll work on it together. If you can’t locate a pool noodle, no problem – join the ride anyway! We’ll aim to leave at 10:00am, but we’ll reserve time to make sure we are all “noodled up.” This is a family-friendly, “no-rider-left-behind” ride and all ages are invited, but all young children must be accompanied by an adult. Bike helmets are required. Be sure to check bikenewton.org for last-minute changes. Rain Date: Sunday April 2nd at 1:00 pm.
Approximate Route: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7705125
Since the new law also covers pedestrians and anyone on a wheeled device that is not a car or truck, you can also walk or wheel with your noodle anywhere you’d like around Newton
April fools!
I support this new law that will make bikers and pedestrians safer. I continue to be dismayed by the City of Newton’s business partnership with bicycle rental companies that don’t provide or require helmets.
Mike thanks for mentioning the need for helmets. I have seen the devastating consequences of of an unprotected head hitting the pavement. If one TBI per year can be prevented that would be a success.