Listening to music while riding - harmless or hazardous?

I have always wondered with this. Is it legal to wear your ipod while riding? What hazards does it place on other road users/peds etc.

I am a bit against it personally, as the ear phones with loud music can impede ones ability to listen and concentrate on traffic etc. especially if you are riding in a group scenario. Someone with ear phones rides off while people at the rear may have had a fall etc.

What are the legalities of this, pro's & con's? For or against? Please keep the discussion civil.

Views: 4946

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by greg looyestyn on June 20, 2012 at 10:17

How would you know? Easy, the dog riding up front would be wearing a helmet!

Permalink Reply by Sam Young on April 12, 2012 at 17:23

I don't listen to music when I ride, for most of the reasons already stated, but I've got a mate who does all the time, reckons a good tempo helps him get some rhythm up the hills.  

Permalink Reply by Shav Bird on April 12, 2012 at 17:27

Totally. Having some tunes giving you a beat to keep up to can assist no end. I loved going to spin classes for this very reason. It always got me in the mood to push that bit harder.

Still, on the road, having your mind blotted out with music while you are 'in the zone' could have some implications for those around you wanting to get your attention for any given reason yes or no?

Perhaps I am looking into it more than I should be.

Permalink Reply by Sam Young on April 12, 2012 at 17:47

Yeah, I reckon there are other ways to get pumped up that are probably a little safer!

Permalink Reply by Shav Bird on April 12, 2012 at 17:50

I think the suggestion of the Garmin is a pretty good way of motivating your riding style. Something I plan on getting once my credit card gets back from it's recent hernia attack.

Being able to track your progress/cadence/speed/distance etc has got to be one of the best ways to motivate most cyclists.

Permalink Reply by Paul Inglis on April 12, 2012 at 17:59

There's no need for a Garmin in order to track your rides. Just get the Strava app for a GPS enabled android or iphone.

Permalink Reply by Shav Bird on April 12, 2012 at 18:00

I got it on my phone just dont know how to use it. *hides in shame*

Permalink Reply by Martin Turner on April 13, 2012 at 12:20

My heart trying to burst out of my chest gives me plenty of "good tempo" to pedal to.

Permalink Reply by Gillian on April 12, 2012 at 18:42

I won't use an iPod on road or bike path because I value the safety aspect of the noises around me.

However, an iPod is absolutely essential when doing solo spin bike sessions at the gym. Try doing 90mins "unsupported" or worse, listening to the doof doof music kindly supplied by my gym :(

Found another reason not to iPod on the road the other day. My brother has a Lexus hybrid car which was damn near silent reversing up my driveway!

Permalink Reply by Frank on April 12, 2012 at 21:13
Crickey, i totally agree with you!
Well almost, I like the music at my gym but that's another story!
Permalink Reply by Gillian on April 13, 2012 at 20:01

Frank, if you had a chance to hear the "music" selection at my gym then we would be in 100% complete agreement. Miracles can happen! :-)

 

Permalink Reply by Frank on April 13, 2012 at 20:38
I do believe in miracles!
Who knows, Our paths have probably crossed!

RSS

Support our Sponsors

© 2013   Created by Gus K.

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service