Ben Fried posts a fascinating graph (h/t Ezra Klein) showing how the absolute number of cyclist injuries has dropped by 40% in New York City while the number of cyclists riding each day has more than doubled:

The conclusion Fried draws, based on other research, is that there is safety in numbers. When more cyclists are visible on the streets, car drivers are more attuned to them, and they are more likely to see them. 

My impression is that the same phenomenon has occurred in Montpelier. I see substantially more cyclists on the road, summer and winter, than 10 years ago. In the past, cars regularly pulled out right in front of me or on a collision course with me at intersections or the roundabout, when I had the right of way. And was wearing bright yellow. In daylight.

These days, it hardly ever happens. 

One way for cyclists to increase motorists' awareness of them is to bicycle naked. That's exactly what the organizers of Montpelier's third annual participation in the World Naked Bike Ride are hoping for this Saturday, June 13.  If you want to participate, show up between 1 and 2 at the Freeride Bicycle Collective, 89 Barre Street. The ride leaves promptly at 2. 

More details, and pictures of previous naked bike rides in Montpelier, at www.montpeliernakedbikeride.org