OK fellow cyclists, it seems we've been annoying too many drivers these days. Let’s review the rules and why we ride the way we do.
Where do we ride? Is there a shoulder or bicycle lane? Not in this city right? That means we're in the lane with all the other vehicles, not the sidewalk; sidewalks are for pedestrians and I for one will not ride past a pedestrian when I am travelling anywhere from 25 to 60km/h.
So where in the lane should we ride? Some drivers seem to think that cyclists should be in the gutter. There are several problems with this. If I hug the gutter then I'll likely be clipped by a vehicle that tried to pass without allowing for enough space (I know this from experience). Debris, sand and storm water drains are also present in the gutters and catching a wheel on any of these obstacles often ends in hospital time. The best place to be is right in the middle of the lane. Here cyclists can ride in a straight line without having to dodge gutter obstacles. Also faster moving vehicles wishing to pass end up having to switch lanes thus reducing the risk of a cyclist/motorist collision.
Cyclists, like all users of the road, let’s remember to be courteous. Yes there are times that we ride slower than other cyclists and motorists, so when possible pull over for a minute when the lane widens. If a pedestrian decides to cross the road, give them the right of way. Try not to cut off vehicles when making lane changes. Make sure there is a large enough gap in traffic before signalling and moving into another lane.
There are road rules for all users. Red lights, stop and yield signs are there for a reason. Make left turns from the left lane and please use your hand signals. Don’t ride the sidewalk unless you’re out on an evening promenade with the family. You’re a pedestrian or a cyclist.
A note to drivers — just give us a little room and lay off the horn. Most of us are riding as safely as we can in a city without bike lanes. Thank you.
Joel Gervais, St. Albert
