>> Many of them must be drivers but they seem to switch off a large part
>> of their brain as soon as they get on a bike. Many ignore other road
>> users by riding in bunches or a long string without room between to overtake. Likewise
>> they seem unaware of their vulnerability if they come into contact with a car, bus
>> or truck when asserting their rights or riding around slow traffic. Unless they drive with
>> their eyes shut all of that should be obvious to them every time they get
>> in a car.
Vulnerability is a given. It's obvious that in an accident with a car, truck or bus as a cyclist you'll come off worst. You recognise the possible consequence and work on probability.
You can do that being super observant and having rules for what you will do. Cycling writers passim, my mentor was Richard Ballantine, explain this.
I won't go near a lorry unless I can see it won't move AND I've got an escape route if I get that wrong. If a bus is stopping assume somebody will step out. Overtake queuing traffic on the offside; too many hazards from gutter rubbish to bailing passengers nearside. Have a bell or horn and use it.
How would you like us to ride on ordinary roads?
Single file invites close passing and other Muppetry.
A tight group moving at pace should be no greater problem to overtake than a tractor; probably less as they've only the 'footprint' of a car. Passed a party exactly like that on the road out of Kinlochewe yesterday, about 10 in a disciplined 'mini peloton' moving at around 20mph. Wait behind in low gear until you've and adequate sight line and go.
Even with a tonne of caravan behind it wasn't difficult.
Last edited by: Bromptonaut on Sat 28 Aug 21 at 21:23
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