Cycling Distances in a Pandemic

A cyclist practicing at the Shangfa Acrobatic School with 5 very adept passengers - not exactly social distancing, but still in a group less than ten!

A Note on Cycling Distances in this Pandemic: one well-publicized, recent study has recommended avoiding pacelines or close riding directly behind anyone, but rather cycling side by side or staggered in more of an echelon formation. Riding at a moderate pace, it suggests that you should maintain a 30-foot distance between you and the rider in front of you (think of a large UPS delivery truck or school bus in between) and a 60-foot distance when riding at a fast clip (more the length of a tractor-trailer). The study focused mainly on runners and the risk of exposure (not the risk of infection), and it relied extensively on modelling and there are many real world conditions that may have effects the study did not account for. But the recommendations are still worth considering. The full paper can be found here: http://www.urbanphysics.net/Social%20Distancing%20v20_White_Paper.pdf and one critical response to the article can be found here: https://www.wired.com/story/are-running-or-cycling-actually-risks-for-spreading-covid-19/

Both articles emphasize the importance and benefits of exercise. Stay Safe and Be Well!