PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — When most people are running errands in a warm car during the winter, Raphael Gribetz is usually riding his bike.
Gribetz, a 65-year-old resident of Presque Isle, hasn’t filled up his car since November and looks forward to riding his bike, including on a sunny, but brisk Wednesday morning with temperatures in the single digits.
“I ride everyday. I do all my shopping and stuff,” he said, pointing to saddle bags on his bike’s back rack. “If you have weight in the back, it gives you more control.”
Gribetz, who moved to Aroostook County in the late 1970s with this late wife, has been year-round biking for decades, first as a commuter in his native New York City and then in Presque isle.
“For many years I traveled the streets of Manhattan and the Bronx by bike. I could beat any express subway headed uptown or downtown,” Gribetz said. “There are similarities as to the level of awareness required to ride in tough city traffic and bitter Maine winters.”
Gribetz is outfitted with a Cannondale hybrid bike from Bike, Board and Ski and puts studded tires on for the winter.
“It’s an amazing experience,” he said. “It’s also good exercise that’s non-impact,” he said, adding that he’s had his hips replaced.
Gribetz often bikes along Presque Isle’s bike and pedestrian path, such as when he’s heading to Gentile Hall. He also rides in the streets, including Main Street Route 1, year-round. “I do my errands. I wouldn’t bike to Caribou.”
Under Maine law, motorists are required give bicyclists at least 3 feet of clearance when passing.
With the speed limit set at 25 miles per hour on Presque Isle’s Main Street, Gribetz said his rides to and from Walmart aren’t actually that much longer than if he were driving. “If you get the right lights, you can make it from Walmart to the University without stopping.”
Overall, Gribetz finds biking safe, enjoyable and good for his health, but he still takes safety seriously.
“I was once knocked out on Broadway in New York City. It was an illegal turn the car made and I just flipped right over the hood.”
Biking in the streets, especially, in winter, requires concentration, Gribetz said. “You can’t let your mind wander; it’s like when you’re using a chainsaw.”
As for biking in the coldest months of the year, Gribetz said he thinks of winter as a “friendly opponent.”
“You can’t let the winter get to you. I wouldn’t say you have to fight with it. You’ve got to move with it, because it’s not going anywhere for a long time.”
