Useful voice for cyclists

Press, 21 August 1979, Page 16

Useful voice for cyclists

The new Canterbury Cycling Association deserves to succeed in its object of making the opinions of cyclists known on matters which affect their convenience and safety. The increasing use of bicycles by adults in central parts of the city, where motor traffic is heavy, is bringing new problems for all those who use the streets, and for those who must plan to achieve the safest possible conditions for all road users.

The advantages of cycling hardly need to be spelt out. It relieves pressure on roads and parking places, it is cheap and conserves fuel and foreign exchange, it is a healthy activity for those prepared to brave the elements, and, as regular cyclists can demonstrate, it is almost as fast as motoring when traffic is heavy.

Unlike motorists, cyclists make little direct contribution to providing the roads and paths they use. However, the advantages to the whole community, and to other road users especially, of encouraging cycling should justify provision of facilities for cyclists from general rates and taxes.

Although it might be many years before the ambitious network of cycleways proposed for Christchurch earlier this year can be completed, the five local authorities concerned should make sure that some modest progress is made each year.

Two matters demand urgent attention. Motorists need to be reminded frequently that cyclists, too, have rights on the roads. They are especially vulnerable and should be treated with consideration. Almost every cyclist represents a car which is not being added to the traffic congestion. Second, cyclists find it much easier to keep clear of motor vehicles when the shoulders of the roadway are smooth and do not slope steeply. For very little cost compared with the cost of new roading, many city streets could be made more attractive —and safe — for cyclists.

In return, the new Cyclists’ Association might add a third urgent matter to its concerns: education of cyclists that they, too, should obey the rules of the road like any other vehicles. In particular, many Christchurch cyclists need to be reminded that adequate lighting at night is not only a legal requirement; it is essential for survival.

In such modest ways to begin with, the new association will have an opportunity to demonstrate its value to cyclists as a group serving their interests, while it establishes good relations with local authorities, the Ministry of Transport, and other road users. In time, perhaps, the “C.A.” will become as well known and respected as the motorists’ A.A.