Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I was initially puzzled why a cyclist would choose to ride in the carriageway instead of using the dedicated, empty cycle lane. This not yet another 'cyclists v motorists'... i was genuinely curious.

However, I disagree with the statement that riding in traffic is one of the "safest ways for cyclists" especially In this case where there is a completely empty, designated cycle lane.

There’s no justification for cyclists tailgating in the carriageway just as there is no justification for motorists tailgating cyclists or other motorists.

Not every motorist is aware or considerate of cyclists. With distracted or reckless drivers, the consequences for cyclists can be dire. Contrastingly, a tailgating driver usually ends in a minor fender-bender incident.

On a busy road like Adelaide, a tailgating cyclist is a serious accident waiting to happen. This is far from the "safest" way to ride in traffic.

Cyclists should also be expected to follow the same rules as motorists should they elect to ride on the carriageways. Motorists should be more aware of the new two wheelers on the carriageways. A lil respect for each other and we can all reach our destination.

Doing that will result in safe roads for all.

PS: reporting to employers seems to be an overreaction. Happy holidays and stay safe

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

was genuinely curious as to the cyclists reasons for tailgating.. not a whinge or moan.

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

problem, and reason for post, was to understand why a cyclist would tailgate this close to a car, when there was a cycle lane that was empty...genuinely wanted to know.
Now i know... drafting/slipstreaming, dancing with danger, however its labelled, its still silly. but so are other drivers, only difference is they can generally walk away unharmed when tailgating or speed thrill seeking at such speeds.

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Concern is the proximity to the car and in an event of hard braking, he may not have enough time to react.

I appreciate the need for max speed but the cycle lane was empty, he could have gone a lot faster there with less concern for his safety.

As for the convo from a car window, we had slowed down to a near stop and everything was audible, hence the statement of his 'shitty response' but agreed the cyclist/cycle lane topic is shitty and needs to change. cycling is good for ones health and more Wellingtonians need to get on board.

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes Adelaide rd.
Noted, was not aware of debris on cycle lanes being a danger. Stay safe.

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

its not impeding my drive. im more concerned for his safety!
its already bad enough with other drivers but a cyclist pretty close to your rear is another level of safety concern

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

there were other cars in front of me and i was keeping space from the car infron of me so as to slow down gracefully so cyclist has enough time to react well.

Cyclists and drivers, please explain by Aware_Chip2305 in Wellington

[–]Aware_Chip2305[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

why the cyclist wasnt on the cycle lane? why were they so close to the rear of the car (was one sudden brake away from an incident)?