[dd74]

The only time I've thought I needed to carry a gun, oddly enough, is when I'm cycling. Why? I'm an easy target for anyone who might want to 1) inflict their road rage on me/challenge me to a fight; 2) steal money, credit cards, ID, etc; 3) steal my bike. And yes, it's true, people have intentionally tried to run into me. I've been pushed off my bike while riding. I've even been shot at. A trucker tried to do a Terminator on me by coming after me with his semi. Great stuff!

Even today, I watched a guy on a Harley that was far too large for him, nearly wipe out on sharp mountain turn. I was on my bike, just passing by, and he shouts at me, "What the **** are you looking at?" Now what if that guy wants to come after me? Other than sheer speed, dropping my bike and getting out of the clips with my fists up, I have no recourse.

So, yes, I've seen and considered small .38s, even a .40 caliber that could easily fit in a zipper back jersey pocket. But here's the thing: the sweat there can't be good for the weapon. Secondly, the time it would take to bring the gun out to defend myself would definitely give my adversary an advantage.

Anyway, that's the only time I would carry one. I know there are other cyclists in Los Angeles with much the same thought.

IIRC, it's how they roll in Colombia: the national team there never rides unarmed. Why? Road bandits who steal and sell the bicycle parts on the black market.