May I have a rant? Yes. Thank you. Tis safer in here. I know I've previously mentioned my displeasure and annoyance with MTBers. Apologies to present company.
Yesterday I spotted an MTBer in the distance on a dirt track road which would join the one we were walking on. Keep in mind we were so remote there was no traffic noise so it was hardly busy. We walked four abreast. About 200 metres beyond the track junction I heard a shout from close behind of "Can I get through" or similar. I realised the rider was right on top of us. I moved to my left towards the verge such as it was only to find the rider was coming by on the left. He suddenly swerved right at speed through the middle of our group clipping me on my right arm.
I really don't get these people. This is the closest incident I've had to being hit and it was bloody close. This isn't an isolated event, up here it happens with miserable frequency. Why not slow 30-40 metres away, call out and wait for the walkers to step aside? On gravel I ring my bell, say thank you, slow down and wait till folk hear me and often stop for walkers approaching.
There do seem to be some very special dickheads riding MTBs up here. Part of me wishes he'd hit me..... then he'd have a whole shoot load of trouble to deal with.
Sorry. Still angry now.