PARKING OF CYCLES.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 108, 7 April 1932, Page 8

PARKING OF CYCLES.

(To tire Editor.)

Sir.—l would be grateful if you would allow me a little space in your valued paper to draw attention io a fault in our traffic department’s administration. I am one of many, no doubt, recently notified, per medium of a small tag which has been affixed to my bicycle during my absence, that I am liable for prosecution for leaving my machine “parked” in the gutter in the business area, instead of availing myself of the use of the stands provided for such purpose. Now, I should like to know what I must do in the event of finding a stand already filled, with none other adjacent to the particular place where it is necessary for me to park; also, in the event of my cycle failing to remain upright, or anywhere near upright, in the stands, as is the case with mine in particular. The reason for this is that it is ono of the newest cycles out, having wheels lsin in width, while the slot in tho stands are of uniform width, viz., 2in, thus having the effect of canting tho machine on an angle of almost 45 degrees—a very precarious “lean-011,” likely to buckle even the strongest rims. What are ire “unfortunates” to do, therefore (I am not the only person in this city possessing a narrowwheeled velocipede) when it is utterly impossible to make use of the standsin the streets? Just park in the gutter and meekly stand by while we’re “nabbed” by the traffic inspectors? No, sir! If my machine is ticketed again, the traffic department will hear from me direct.

I liavo always been given to understand that the stands have been placed at intervals in our streets for the convenience of cyclists, but was not aware of the existence of such an uncalledfor by-law prohibiting the parking of bicycles in the gutters if necessary. One can quite understand why cycles should not be wanted actually on the footpaths, but why not in tho gutters? Is there actually a by-law against this practice?—l am, etc., RACER. Palmerston North, April 6, 1932. The Palmerston North City Council recently passed a resolution that it be made a breach of the by-laws for cycles to be placed against shop fronts or verandah posts, and that additional cycle stand accommodation be provided for them.