Do Cyclists Use a Bell Instead of Shouting at Pedestrians When Passing Them?

As a passionate cyclist, I find that using a bell to communicate with pedestrians while passing is both courteous and effective. I have a fairly loud bell attached to both of my bikes, and I always ring it when I approach someone on a trail. Most people acknowledge my alert with a wave or a thank you, showing their appreciation for the common courtesy. However, some individuals, particularly those wearing headphones or earbuds, might not respond, as they may be oblivious to the sound.

Etiquette in Different Countries

During my time in the Netherlands, a single "ting" on the bell was seen as polite, signaling your presence. Multiple "tings" were considered more aggressive and shouting was a sign of someone who was either a psychopath or in a place where pedestrians should be nowhere near the cycle path. Unfortunately, upon my relocation to the UK, I noticed a complete lack of etiquette. Many bicycles lack bells, and if you're lucky, you might receive a verbal warning; otherwise, you could be overtaken by a high-speed e-bike silently zooming past.

Using Bells in National Forests and Neighborhoods

In local National Forests, there is a mandatory rule that mountain bike (MTB) riders must use a bell while on the trails. This practice helps scare animals less and results in better reactions from people as well. The key is to gently ring the bell to see if your presence is noticed. Loud noises can instill fear in both small and large animals. In my daily rides around my neighborhood, I use a coach whistle to alert traffic. This is akin to how a car's horn alerts surrounding vehicles. Many people are not paying attention to their surroundings, so using a whistle or bell is crucial for safety.

General Cycling Etiquette

Based on my unscientific observations over 17,000 miles over the past five years, the majority of cyclists tend to announce their presence before passing walkers or slower riders by saying "bicycle behind you, passing on the left." This verbal announcement is a courteous way to inform individuals ahead that you are following and your intention is to pass safely on the left. For those who might not react, I have found that shouting is necessary. Additionally, using a bell and announcing intentions verbally can be highly effective. Both methods contribute to a safer and more considerate riding environment.

Ultimately, the choice between using a bell or shouting comes down to context and the specific situation you encounter. Whether you prefer to be as silent as possible for wildlife or need to be heard to ensure safety, it's important to stay mindful and be prepared to adapt to the needs of the moment.