Interests of Cyclists

Dominion, Volume 30, Issue 46, 18 November 1936, Page 13

Interests of Cyclists

Sir,—The dictum of Mr. F. O. Spratt that, the cyclist is an "extraordinary bird” will no doubt be heartily endorsed bv certain sections of the motoring comniunitv, but Mr. Spratt, although presumably not a cyclist, seems to be something of a “rara avis” himself. If I understand the position correctly, the need for the Hoad Safety Council was created by the appalling death rate on our public roads caused by motor vehicles, and although the functions of the council, no doubt, include the dissemination of propaganda to all road users, the statement of Air. Spratt can hardly be described as "propaganda" intended for the education of erring cyclists. As a cyclist myself, a club member, and one who invariably complies with the law, 1 must admit that the only advice I have ever had from motorists was to "Get off the road.” There is no representative of cycling interests —there should be —on the Road Safety Council, and in view of Air. Spratt's opening attack it is not. difficult to foreshadow what sort of "advice” will be offered tn those who prefer walking and cycling to motoring. Apropos this subject, can you tell me ’-f it is permissible to park cars on the Hutt Road cycle track? There were four cars and a lorry on it at Kaiwarra this morning. to the great inconvenience of those cyclists who prefer the track to the road. —I am, etc., CYCLIST. Wellington, November 17.