Greetings all,

Firstly, apologies for the dramatic subject line of my email.

This evening around 7:15pm, a fellow cyclist and I were confronted by
a motorist driving a F-250 Ford Pickup Truck, late model, extended
cab, Black paint.  Said confrontation happened at the corner of
Millhopper Road and 43rd Street, right near the Millhopper Publix.

The motorist questioned why we were riding part of the time in the
"neutral zone" and part of the time in the bike lane.  I had no clue
what "neutral zone" he was referring to and asked him to clarify.
This drew his ire and a bunch of insults started spewing forth; for
clarification, the "neutral zone" is the small section of road between
the rumble strips and the bike lane itself.  The motorist went on to
state he was sick of cyclists blocking his way, we should be riding
single file, shouldn't be in the "neutral zone", etc etc.  My friend
and I managed to remain calm while the motorist continued to hurl
insults our way.  Time to zone out when that happens.  The only regret
I have is (a) I didn't grab the tag and (b) I left my helmet camera
home :(  The motorist turned South onto 43rd Street.

I ended up heading over to the Chevron petrol station where I was
joined shortly after by another cyclist friend (a GCC member - who
wishes to remain anonymous).  This person was buzzed on 241 crossing
the I75 overpass just outside of Alachua by the *same* Black pickup
truck.  Shortly after this conversation at the petrol station, two
Gainesville Police Officers arrived.  A concerned motorist had
witnessed the pickup truck driver abusing us cyclist types and called
9-11.  I gave the Police Officers my story.  I was pleased they took
the time to listen, remain impartial, etc.  However, not having the
tag number didn't help much :(

Everyone, be extremely wary riding along 241 and Millhopper.  It is
apparent from this driver's actions and attitude he does not like
cyclists.

If anyone cares to reply, please reply directly rather than emailing
the entire listserv.

Regards,

Jayson

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