TIPS: Watch for cars on the way to the trail

This entry is in no way meant to be funny. That said, the irony is remarkable as you look at this Associated Press photo by Jose Fidelino Vera Hernandez of a car colliding "into cyclists participating in a race in Mexico's northern border city of Matamoros" June 1. The crash killed one rider and injured 14 others at the scene (although I only count 8 in the air), while many roadies still tell me that they don't mountain bike because they're concerned about injuries. I've never seen a tree do this to anyone!

The12-mile ride to work has further convinced me that road riding might just take more courage than most other indulgences I can think of -- and you have to do a lot more of it to stay in shape. My prayers go out to these riders, their families and any of you brave enough to put a few ounces of titanium, aluminum, carbon or steel and a dinky plastic helmet up against a quarter ton of fast-moving fury. (Look at the photo closely; it doesn't look like the headless helmets or footless shoes -- not to mention the airborne bikes -- did these guys much good at all).