We have as much right to the road as motorists, but are frequently bullied off it as vehicles pass ridiculously close, and drivers “don't see us” at intersections. You'd think we should engender so much respect for choosing to leave our cars at home that motorists would give us a wide berth and a friendly wave as they carefully passed. Dream on...
Of course I'm a motorist too – most adult cyclists are. I'm happy to pause a few seconds while the cyclist in front of me clears a line of parked cars until it's safe to pass, but sadly in our busy society where every second is precious, most motorists don't extend the same courtesy, and cyclists are seen as impediments.
Yes I get annoyed when as a motorist I see cyclists doing stupid things – dangerous manoeuvres, running red lights, excessively wide pelotons. Even though cyclists are putting themselves at risk primarily, it's unfortunate that these actions provide ammunition to those who don't favour cycling initiatives.
Somehow the logic goes: “I don't like the way cyclists annoy me therefore I'm not going to support cycling initiatives”. Makes about as much sense as “I don't like the way hoons indulge in burnouts and street racing therefore I'm not going to build streets”.
So my appeal to cyclists and motorists alike is to follow the rules, be courteous, and give each other a friendly wave. As more facilities are provided for cyclists to ride with reduced risk, and more motorists leave their cars at home and hop on a bike, and more kids are riding to school instead of Mum and Dad dropping them off, then those who have to take their car will get a dream run. And everyone wins.
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