What's your opinion on Cyclists on the road?

[suicideneil]

Interesting, there was a news feature a week or so ago about cyclists in the UK and how alot of them in cities especially dont obey the rules of the road. One big thing that was brought up was how people cycle along the edge of the road (like you are ment to when there is no cycle lane), but make the error of pulling up along side large vehicles; one poor woman pulled up next to a cement mixer lorry at some lights, and then it turned left at the same time as she did.... she got pulled under its wheels and it drove over hed head... splat Im affraid to say. Tragic as that is, it does highlight the danger of cycling in cities, and how easy to overlook cyclists it is.

Personally I used to cycle alot when I was young, but nower days I walk everywhere, though I would like a Quadbike = better than a bike, cheaper than a car.

[crazyjr]

Personally, in my area, they even pull out in front of the cops and get nothing. My personal belief is that those over 16 should have a license and tag w/insurance. If they want to ride on the road, they should have to contribute to its upkeep. I deal as best as i can, but i think some are looking for a lawsuit so they don't have to work, or at least get a small payoff. I was stopped at a red light, a guy run into my rear bumper and flew into my bed (yes like a movie stunt) I was in the right and the guy sounded like he had a few, told me i was to go buy him a new bike right then and there. So i started to call the police to let them see what happened, he said forget itrode off with his wobbly wheel and bruised ego.

I think if they had to pay for the right to be on the road and were held accountable, they would be more respectful

[_paralyzed_]

not in America. There are rarely provisions for bikes and drivers are idiots. Like people have already stated, instead of paying attention to the road people are making phone calls, text messaging, eating, applying make up, etc. etc. People don't see me in my bright yellow wheelchair, I can't imagine going on the roads with a little bike. That being said, I respect bikers rights, and think people need to watch out more and share the road!

[MTBikerTim]

Originally Posted by suicideneil

Interesting, there was a news feature a week or so ago about cyclists in the UK and how alot of them in cities especially dont obey the rules of the road. One big thing that was brought up was how people cycle along the edge of the road (like you are ment to when there is no cycle lane), but make the error of pulling up along side large vehicles; one poor woman pulled up next to a cement mixer lorry at some lights, and then it turned left at the same time as she did.... she got pulled under its wheels and it drove over hed head... splat Im affraid to say. Tragic as that is, it does highlight the danger of cycling in cities, and how easy to overlook cyclists it is.

Personally I used to cycle alot when I was young, but nower days I walk everywhere, though I would like a Quadbike = better than a bike, cheaper than a car.

I read about that. It is definitely a dangerous situation. This is one of the reasons when I pull up to a set of lights I always stop past the white line. This means that the cars pulled up beside me know that I am there. Also if a truck is beside you it means you can get started and be well through the intersection by the time the truck catches you again. You have to be really careful though as if the light changes as you approach the intersection you can get into trouble. I will normally hang back and sit in the line of traffic unless there is a slip lane or I know for sure that the lights will not go green.

Something I notice which annoys some motorists is when you pass them on the left (or right in the US). At least in our road rules it is perfectly legal to do and considering cars pass us on the right all the time I don't really see much of a difference.