Recreational cyclists- When you pass a pedestrian or other cyclists how do you warn them you are coming up?

Question

Don't warn.

"On your left"

"Good morning (afternoon)"

other?

Answer 1

I have found that "on your left" can really scare the c**p out of people, who then panic and forget which way is left, causing an accident...in my hometown people didn't react this way at all, but here in central WI I get glared at almost everytime, so I have taken to just picking a wide berth around them if I can and only alerting them if absolutely necessary.  THis is not a very cycling savvy community that i live in, but if you live in, say, Portland, OR or somewhere where cycling is very common, then I'd imagine most people would do well with "on your left", after all, that relays important information about where you are.....

Answer 2

I usually say "Excuse me" rather loud when I'm still quite a distance from them.   As I get closer and If passing several riders/walkers, I say "on your left" or "on your right" as I am closer and preparing to pass.

Answer 3

Use a bell (remember the oldies with the little pusher)? Then speak up, saying "Bicycle passing on your left!" "Thank you!"

Answer 4

Fortunately, almost all pedestrians I encounter are either using the sidewalks or, if there is no sidewalk, walking/running opposite the direction of traffic.

I don't shout "on your left" when passing other cyclists.  I find it irritating and obnoxious.  I think it makes the same amount of sense as drivers that use turn signals but don't bother to look.  Instead, I pay attention to their path and make a point to pass when it's safe.  If the other rider appears to be struggling with his/her riding skills, I will allow more room between us as I pass.  Most of the cyclists I encounter are regulars on the roads, and we typically exchange a friendly greeting during the pass...or even hang together briefly for a quick chat.

Answer 5

I just scream like I'm being murdered as I'm inches away.  

(No, I don't actually do that.)  It usually doesn't matter what sound I make since most of the pedestrians are wearing headphones.

Answer 6

The best is "on your left" Or "passing on your left". Just make sure you say it clearly enough and soon enough for them to move or react with being startled. If you give them enough time they can even move right after they moved left into your path because some people don't know their left from their right. Believe me, it happens alot.  I usually say thank you as I pass to promote good will between the two disciplines.