As a frequent road cyclist the biggest problem on the road which I encounter is the discourteous and dangerous 'white van delivery man'. Far too many of these drivers are in a hurry. Most are even paid a bonus to deliver as many parcels as they can within their shift which only encourages them to be more impatient. Seriously considering tackling my MP about outlawing the bonus culture amongst parcel delivery businesses. Great video Leonard.
Similar principle applies to taxi drivers in my experience. I don't think I've ever encountered an Addison Lee driver who wasn't acting like they were in Mad Max
I know it doesn't excuse people's cavalier attitude towards cyclists but I've heard it's not a bonus scheme but a "if you don't deliver X number of parcels a day or empty your van you will eventually be sacked for not reaching targets" as a lot of them are self employed , so a lot of them are under pressure which makes them act stupidly in desperation.
In a car, it literally takes the tiniest physical effort (press the brake pedal) to wait the 5-20 seconds that it will take to pass a cyclist safely. A driver is barely inconvenienced, even if the Cyclist is "taking the line" to turn right for example. You could literally kill someone for the sake of waiting a few seconds, your bad day could be catastrophic for someone else. Personally i'm more of the opinion that selfish people do selfish things and that pretty much extends to every part of life, not just passing cyclists on the road or indeed to cycling itself.
evilrslade Drivers who are aggressive/reckless/dangerous are, in my observation, equal opportunity. They are every bit as bad with other motorists and pedestrians as with cyclists. As to the importance of time, my standard is simple. If someone in the car has a dilated cervix and increasing contractions, time is important. 😉 Otherwise, not.
I have even been honked at, just because I used the road and not a cycle lane, even though I did not at all hold up the driver (I was able to talk to the driver right after, and asked why he honked, and he said it was because I was not in the cycle lane. I asked if I delayed him at all, and he said no.). It was a short stretch of road going downward hill, and toward a roundabout. I chose to use the main lane, as I intended to go straight on in that roundabout, and I know I am safer taking up a position in the middle of the lane, instead of using that cycle lane that just increases the chance to get into a right hook accident with right-turning drivers coming from behind (we drive on the right-hand side here in Norway;). People behind the wheel often see things from the perspective of a driver, and do not see all the dangerous factors cyclists learn to look after when they get experienced, and that is why the decision to use a cycle lane or not is to be based on each cyclist skills and experience, and not to some random clueless driver that happens to come along. Btw, here in Norway, we have the same right to use the road as in the UK, and no cycle lanes are compulsory to use.
While true, I can never ever beat a car, truck or bus on a bike, so I have to use my common sense because they could F me up with that car. With that said, there are some areas I ride where drivers are very aware of and accommodating to cyclists and then there are areas where they don't give a rats ass; you have to know those areas.
Yep, that intro, I was beginning to wonder where you were taking us. Totally agree, at age 72, I now tend to ride far into the country, so I can enjoy cycling, and not worry about crazy motorists.
I am very courteous and when on congested roads, I ride by rules as I were in car. Very respectful. I wave to cars who are courteous, Always thanking them for not putting me at risk. I also wave and mouth sorry if it’s me at fault for doing something to put us all at risk. But, Generally, There will always be those who just have an engrained frustration deep within their brains and hearts for cyclists. Ironically, No motorist ever gets mad at me on descents because I’m usually doin at least 15-20km/h faster than they are. 🤣 I wish more motorists were conscious of how nerve wrecking it can be for a cyclist when being passed while they’re on a steep climb. On an incline, The law should be motorists must be at least 5m away from a cyclist when passing. Can be terrifying trying to keep a straight line at the very edge of the road on a steep climb, But have your legs and heart exploding and then having to worry about being hit by a car if you were to swerve just the tiniest bit into the road. It’s a shame that all the well paved roads here in California are usually the ones congested with most traffic. I resort to the less-managed roads and sacrifice comfort for peace of mind knowing I’m less likely to be hit. The problem is things have grown too convenient and it’s easy to fall victim to the daily rush via car. People forget to how to he able to sit back and enjoy the ride of life. That’s why when it takes them an extra few seconds out of their day to pass by a group of cyclists, They act as though it was 3 minutes time instead. Riding a bike gives you a truly wonderful perspective on life and more people need that POV!
I was cycling across the USA. I was pedaling up a 4 mile hill in Wyoming. I looked back and there was a wide load truck coming up behind me at least 3 lanes wide. I got off my bike and walked into the weeds about 100ft. As he went by he beeped “thanks”
Another excellent video, Leonard. Thanks. I like to wear a mirror stick on my cycling helmet, as it helps me be aware of what’s behind, and to work collaboratively with motorists to let them pass. I would recommend mirrors to all fellow cyclists; it’s a smart way to avoid some potentially dangerous situations. However, full praise for Leonard for his continually great videos.
Excellent Leonard! There is one instance, at least in the US, one can pass through a redlight: "If the sensors can't detect your bike and trigger the light, it's considered a defective light. After sitting through one light cycle, you can proceed-yielding the right-of-way to any approaching vehicles."
Sometimes, I have waved motorists to come over the detector loop when they have stopped too far behind us or the white line. There is no internationally accepted hand signal for "come forward over the detector loop", as far as I am aware.
In the States, technically cyclists are supposed to be treated like a car. Thus, we can technically ride in the middle of the lane. Most of us ride to the right though, simply because we know that in the collision between 4,000 lb car and 20 lb bike, the car always wins. The downside is that all of the broken glass and trash also accumulates to the right, so the risk of a flat tire increases. For those of you cousins in the UK, of course, flip right vs. left and this makes more sense. What I do is stay about six inches from the white line, thus cars can more easily pass but I am not riding in trash. What we as cyclists need to do a better job of, is signaling our turns, and stopping at red lights and stop signs. If we want the courtesy of the rules of the road, we need to abide by those rules ourselves. And we are frequently guilty of using those rules when they benefit us, but also ignoring them when convenient.
It's much the same here, cyclists are just slow moving vehicles and are supposed be treated as such. Our government recently passed new laws requiring passing vehicles to leave a space of at least 1.5 metres between themselves and a cyclist or risk a £100 fine. So far I haven't heard of it actually being enforced, and even recently had a van pass me with just a few inches to spare in full view of a passing police car, who did nothing.
As a cyclist I pay the same vehicle excise tax as car drivers because I also own a car. On days that I choose to ride rather than drive, instead of receiving abuse I should be receiving a refund as I am not emitting any emissions from my car.
I personally liked your into. But I'm geeky that way. Loved you analysis. Once again you got your point out while not insulting anyone. (Though some may be determined to) Loved the whole post.
Great video Leonard, as a kid in London I always thought that horses and cyclists had the right of way over motorized vehicles, however times have changed. As a cyclist ( and a motorist) I do my best to be aware of the traffic situation at all times and concentrate on any hazards around me. Vehicles passing and then turning left immediately in front of me and they haven't even been aware that I was there! During the daylight hours one must at least have a bright strobing rear light this sort of wakes up the motorists who are about to pass. Most of the time I get a wider berth than without a light.
I've had an occasion when I was at a crossing and it was a red light for traffic and green Man for me , a cyclist came tearing through and luckily I was not a bit further into the road or I'd have been knocked down . I can only guess he'd built up a lot of speed and couldn't slow down
Great video! Thank you! One note: When lots of cyclists are in a line and take the entire lane, they form a very, very long single slow vehicle that is impossible to pass. I see motorcycling clubs also do this. A driver simply can't pass a line of 20 slow vehicles that stay close together. We have to share the road.
As I say, is it easier for a motorist to pass a long line of single riders or a shorter,winder line? Suppose it depends on the road conditions, etc. The riders themselves could, perhaps break off into smaller groups that are easier to pass.
@@jollygoodvelo I'd personally feel more comfortable passing a wide group of cyclists than a long, thin line of cyclists. My reasoning is that a wider group means that I can wait for the oncoming lane to be clear and then give a full lane's space to pass quickly and minimise my time out of my own lane, but I'd struggle to pass a really long line of cyclists without worrying I might get surprise forced back into my lane mid-overtake and not be able to give them a safe amount of space. Also my engine is about the size of a tictac, so it takes me a little longer than for other cars.
Thank you. Very interesting narrative and certainly relevant and useful to cycling in Pittsburgh, PA. I face the same challenges albeit on the right side of the road.
Road Tax??Road tax was abolished in 1937.What motorist pay now is V.E.D. (Vehicle Excise Duty)This is based on vehicle emissions, and as cyclist don't emit any emission, we don't have to pay it.
I live in tennessee. The law here is hug the right. Bicycles are considered a nuisance here. I've been chased and almost knocked down regularly by large and small dogs, and the sheriff's dept. does nothing about the problem. At most they talk to the owner, but still the dogs are still running loose up and down the roads chasing cars and people. I've been told twice by the police that I should not be riding on some of the roads here because cars regularly speed on these roads. Yet they won't ticket them because it would hurt their chances of being re elected in this county. So they just turn a blind eye to most things.
Those cycle paths in the Netherlands. Don't think too much of them. I'm Dutch, living in what is called over here cycling paradise and I haven't been there yet! Doing about 1000 km a month for commuting and fun. THNX for all the great content a real world cyclist can relate to!
Great video on a touchy subject. Here in Oklahoma, cyclists are to ride as far to the right as safely possible, but that is left up to individual interpretation. I have actually had a police officer pull my friends and I over saying we were "blocking" traffic. The Law actually states we cyclists are not considered a hindrance, but are traffic ourselves. We normally always move to a single file as far to the edge as possible when motor vehicles are approaching from behind, but there were potholes and debris. He did not know the actual law and how it is written. Instead of causing a situation, we just let him say his piece and move on. Here we also can ride two up, but in some circumstances single is better. I myself always try to just allow the vehicle to pass when the chance arrives, knowing that it will keep said motorists from developing a Bad attitude towards cyclists. Some cyclists only think of themselves and act as if they are entitled and only hurt the vehicle and cycle dynamic. I have seen several bike shop group rides that will literally hog the whole road. There just needs to be a balance, treat motorists with a bit of consideration and hopefully they will develop a respect for cyclists. As far as dedicated cycle lanes, check individual city ordinances, some have rules that state if there is a lane parallel to the roadway, cyclists are required to ride on it instead of the road. Overall, I agree with what you've stated. Cyclists should always adhere to the rules of the road, obey the laws accordingly, and just be courteous to everyone. After all you should be in a great mood, you're riding your bike. 😁
Really sorry that I can only like this video once. You echo my thoughts and I am sharing this video on my Facebook! I've told this same story many, many times. Thanks!
Why shouldn’t cyclist use the roads fairly. After all we pay for the roads too yet do virtually no damage, While our cars are sitting at home. As for two abreast I’ve never seen a car with single file seats.
@@ripp3rjak934 Nice! I have a 1998 Lava Dome (in Positively Purple) and love it! I finally "replaced" it (not really since it is still in the shed awaiting a rear wheel rebuild due to the hub finally wearing out) with a 2018 Lava Dome. Loving the new one too, and amazing what has changed with 20 years of engineering, lol.
Great analysis, as a cyclist and a motorist I see the best and the worst of both camps. Also, as a former police officer I know a bit more about traffic law than the average motorist and when they get confronted with with facts straight out of the highway code book most just get abusive.
In my point of view , as a cyclist for 30 years now , my major concern is in Autumn is slippery and clogged routes . Motorists share the same story with us . Here patience and good reading of the traffic is my sole way to be safe !
great video m8 i do commute to work a lot besides my club day riding and i noticed lately a lot of car drivers go out of there way to have a go at you and many times had them narrowly pass me i got front and rear lights that are quite bright but also use a seeable jacket that lights up against lights the other aspect is been safe
The roads are paid for by ALL taxpayers, even if they never had a car. Road tax does not exist , emissions tax does. I hope I am correct on this issue, couldn't be arsed to google it.Thanks Leonard.
@@panspermiahunter7597 Its a pollutiion tax, this is why motorists pay more based on engine size. People on bikes are classed as band A vehicles, which are exempt from emissions duty (VED). Do you call the drivers of band A vehicles "self centred" too? I doubt it.
what about that one a few months ago ,woman walks out from side of road while on mobile phone into path of cyclist .she gets knocked down, outcome cyclist told he should have been more aware of the actions of pedestrians and woman gets compensation what message does that give out some of these judges have some strange ideas.great videos leonard always ready for the next one
Hi Leonard you make great videos and that has urged me to get a GoPro so I can share my rides with my family. I bought the Hero 7 Black and the new Chesty mount. Being new to this I’m looking for advice how to use it . When used in the chest mount does the camera have to be upside down? Any advice would be appreciated.
I have a film explain the best way to use a GoPro on the bike. You might have to have a look though my library. I will say that you don’t need to use the GoPro upside down when using a chesty.
Three areas that all road users should be tested on 1.Awareness 2.Awareness 3.Awareness Awareness of your own knowledge or lack of it Awareness of what other road users may do, driving a car is different to driving a HGV, riding a bike is different to riding a horse. Awareness that just because one driver/rider/cyclist is a total idiot, doesn't mean that all drivers/riders/cyclists are total idiots. Very nice video.
Great well balanced video ! Only thing I would I would add is pose the question of cyclists having insurance (ouch) as resposible cyclists we expect recompense when a 4 wheel vehicle hits us so why not the otherway round. I cycle regularly and drive like many of us it cost me over £500 when an adult cyclist "going for his strava" hit the side of my car causing extensive damage to the paint work. Im still trying to get the money out of him.... Now thats unfair...
Hey Leonard - What's the black container in your water cage? Is it your fix-it kit or one of those electronic pumps? If it's a pump, what are your thoughts about it?
Like the opening sequence to this video.Why do traffic lights have cameras on? Answer- Because some motorists will cross red lights if they can I,ve seen it happen late at night near where I live.
Almost all cyclists are also motorists, but only a small percentage of motorists are also cyclists. Therefore, as the minority (when cycling), we need to be aware of our rights . . . but more importantly, our responsibilities as road users.You may be legally in the right, but if you get hit by a 3,000 pound car, it won't matter. My motto is "if I can't do it in my car, I can't do it on my bike". I also try to stay as close to the side of the road as I safely can. but I take the lane (with a lot of warning to the motorist) when necessary.
Years ago I had the open door syndrome, thankfully the window was open and I went straight through! Now living in the country you don't get the vast amounts of traffic, but have to deal with the one impatient driver who is desperate to pass at all costs, or the F1 merchant who give you a papers width as they pass at great speed. The pot holes are just terrible round here and you find yourself making the decision to either slow right down or even stop for the passing car, or hit the pot hole!
Even when I ride on field and forest paths, I experience dangerous situations almost every day on my way to and from work. Today I drove into a short and narrow tunnel, which directly turns into a left turn and a van came to meet me and drove on my side ... and I dodged and continued to take the curve on the outer edge. The craziest was a Volvo FH16 truck without trailer which came to meet me on a narrow and bumpy forest road.
I would say everyone has the right to be on the road.Unless it is a highway/freeway.The Dutch have the best cycling infrastructure hands down.Love the videos
@@jollygoodvelo Some roads should also just be for cyclists and public transport such as buses and taxis. To my knowledge, more and more roads in larger cities worldwide have done this, to get heavy motorized traffic away from the city core. Much better air, much quieter and a lot safer for everyone.
Thanks Leonard - an interesting and important discussion point. On the prickly question of road tax, for your UK followers, I've often wondered at the percentage of adult cyclists who also pay this and I suspect it will be pretty high. One other consideration with this dual cyclist/driver group's mindset is - when driving how do they (we) feel about cyclists? I take particular care not to pass unless there's a good clearance to avoid the slipstream affect, but this is often to both the chagrin of of the drivers behind me and the deep suspicion of the cyclist in front whose welfare is my main concern at that moment. Heigh-ho.
I always give cyclists plenty of room when I am overtaking in the car yet when I am on the bike I always get a little suspicious when a motorist waits behind me. Ironic isn’t it.
Here in Manila, some designated bike lanes are just cobblestones painted over. It's like I'm cycling in the Paris-Roubaix. That's why I take the main roads, which unfortunately are riddled with motorists who either try to run through a red light or just completely ignore it. People on motorbikes are also pretty rowdy here. They just come up behind and beside you and whoosh past you without warning.
i am a cyclist and a car driver and delivery driver in a van and agree with most you say apart from two three abreast riding it really pisses me of as a car driver and no need for it
agree to a certain extent maybe in the countryside virtually no cars about but as soon as you encounter any amount of cars you should quit two abreast riding
I've cycled most of my life and hate cycling in the road so find ANY other route when I can, when I have to use the roads I will use as much of the road as I need to keep myself safe, if it's a wide road I'll take the room I need to not going down drain cover dips and allow the cars to pass freely, if it's a bit more narrow and the car could possibly squeeze past onto if I rode right next to the edge of the road where I might get into trouble with pot holes or parked car doors etc I'll move out into the middle and hold back the cars until it's safe for them to pass, they can't still pass me if there is nothing coming the other way the same way they would pass a slow car , I know I'm holding them up and annoying them BUT my life is just as important when I'm riding a bike as it is when I'm driving a car right?
Agree with everything you say in this video except for one thing - the cyclist/motorist distinction. Most adult cyclists are also motorists. Those of us motorists who make some of our journeys by bike are contributing to the general well-being by causing less pollution, less congestion, less damage to roads and fewer accidents. And by engaging in regular exercise as part of our travelling we will stay healthier and put less strain on the NHS. We need more of us road users to get on bikes and end the false dichotomy.
Sadly there is the motorist distinction and it is mainly in the heads of the people who only drive. Us cyclists who are also motorists just see road users.
Primary position for bicycles doesn't exist where I live, we have to stay as far to the left as possible. Though all the exceptions for hazards still apply and it also doesn't apply for two abreast. But as a addition to this they just passed a minimum 3 foot distance law for cars when passing. Not to mention our bike lanes are also few and far between a plus people love to park their cars in them.
@@k-rj740 I live in the States but i can only speak for my state of Ohio. Each state has their own laws. We also have a Impeding the flow/slow moving law that you can get cited for. It's not bike specific but seems to be used on bikes more often.
@@crocketgsxr6 Do you drive at the left-hand side in the US? I am pretty certain you drive on the right don't you? ;) Btw, you country have somewhat stricter rules, but still, the law gives cyclists a right to use the road, also in the middle of the lane (known as lane control or primary position) when it is required due to the safety of the cyclist. You ever heard about CyclingSavvy? It is an official program in the US that teach cyclists through courses to be a better and safer road user. They teach cyclists about lane control, and this is what their web page says about it: (This is just an excerpt from their webpage) *“I thought the law required bicyclists to keep all the way to the right.”* While most states do say that bicyclists must drive as close as “practicable” or as “safe” to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, they also provide many exceptions to this rule, including: •When overtaking and passing another vehicle •When traveling at or near the same speed as other traffic •When preparing for a left turn •Where a lane is too narrow to share safely with another vehicle •Anywhere right turns are authorized (CA) •To avoid any condition that makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge •Many surface hazards - such as potholes, puddles, debris, and broken glass - are more common near the edge of the roadway. Keeping to the right can often hide a bicyclist from a turning motorist at the critical time and place. Most overtaking crashes involve a motorist who attempts to squeeze past (illegally) in a lane that is too narrow to share. (Check out this animation to see all the hazards that make staying far right NOT practicable! ) *“Why weren’t you in the bike lane?”* Many of the reasons we avoid bike lanes are not visible or apparent to a person in a car. Of course, if a bike lane provides a clean, safe place to ride, we use it. Most of the same reasons why bicyclists will drive towards the center of a lane are good reasons for leaving the bike lane. Here are just a few reasons: •Bike lanes collect the debris and glass that is swept off the road. Sometimes you can see it because it’s big, like tree branches, but sometimes only we can see it. A small shard of glass can cause a flat tire. (How many tires did you change on your way to work today?) •Many bike lanes are designed poorly or just plain dangerous. Bike lanes next to parked cars are often entirely within a hazard area we call “the door zone.” A suddenly-opened door can kill a cyclist. •When approaching intersections, or in areas with lots of driveways, a bike lane puts us in a conflict zone. Bike lanes increase our risk for all of the common crossing and turning crashes by making us irrelevant, or even invisible to motorists. •That may not even be a bike lane. It has become popular to add edge lines several feet to the left of the curb. This space is substandard and not safe for a bicyclist to use, though many bicyclists are tricked into riding there. Even in states with mandatory bike lane use, the law allows cyclists the same exceptions as it does to keeping right in general. cyclingsavvy.org/hows-my-driving/
@@k-rj740 Yep on we drive on the right. The lanes are taught and used for all other vehicles( I also ride a motorcycle and use it). Everything listed is also true but those are EXCEPTIONS. Normal travel in my state is the far right and if none of the exceptions apply then your can get cites for slow travel/impeding the flow. Really what I should have said is There is No Primary lane right of way(in my state at least) it can be used if there is no other choice. Though it is also permitted to ride on the sidewalks/foot paths unless otherwise posted.
Great video. Adjustable to the local law of the lands in which one resides. In my case germany. Where it is not required to cycle on cycle lanes except if a blue sign (showing a bicycle) demands it. However, it is absolutely illegal to cycle on sidewalks (pedestrian walkways) except for kids up to 10 years. And yes, of course it is illegal to jump a red light. I am quite frankly fed up with cyclists that do not follow the rules. It is simply whataboutery to point at motorists that do not follow the rules either. Two wrongs do not make one right. That said, overtaking motorized vehicles have to keep at least 1,5m of distance to the cyclists at all times, taking into account his swerving and measured from the farthest outer edge of the driver/bicycle compound to the farthest outer edge of the car (usually the mirror). Nearly nobody does that, and nothing happens except if an accident happens, in which case it will be very much important. And yes, quite often that means in a city that the line i'm cycling in is blocked for cars for all intents and purposes as i have to keep at least 1m, better 1,5 from parked cars to prevent driving into a suddenly opened door.
It’s the same here in the UK that motorists have to give at least 1.5 m when passing a cyclist but many pass closer. They say it’s the same as standing on a train platform with a fast train going by.
@@jollygoodvelo Hi Leonard. There are several places in the USA where it is perfectly legal to ride through a red light. This is one of them where I pass through on my ride home from work... goo.gl/maps/oqRuKPqZaDKR1dMF9 But, if you notice there is not a solid thick white line crossing the bike lane. Other places you are legally required to stop will either have the thick solid white line extended into the bike lane or have a pedestrian crosswalk crossing the bike path.... goo.gl/maps/CEz4WivSqinAJRTM9 But Yes, places where it is okay to "Jump" the red light are very few and far in-between.
Using their road? They really think a public road is their road? And the simple fact that a person need a lisence to be allowed to use the road with a car, tells us that driving is not an inherent right. Cycling on the road, however, is an inherent right.
I stopped cycle commuting and started driving when I lived in the UK. I didn't want to die, and it was elevating my stress levels. I cycle to work now I live in Europe. There's better infrastructure, but it's mostly about driver attitude and compitence. Tbh, I think the problem is that English people are the worst.
You maybe right but if you notice, there are cyclists that drive a car and English too and not a problem. What I hate when driving a car is a cyclist breaking the law and giving other cyclists a bad name. I have question, do you think strava causes issues with people trying to beat someone or trying to beat their pb’s for a section or a route at the expense of their or other people’s safety.
In the U.S. it's illegal to ride 2 abreast. We also are required to stay as far to the right side as safely possible. I've been pulled over by the police for not pulling off the road to allow a line of autos to pass me, even though there is no law here requiring me to do so.
That's not true at all! Most states, I believe 47 of them, allow two abreast, while only 3 states (Alabama is one of them) require bicyclist to hug the right side. All other states allow the bicyclist to take the full lane. However, almost all states assign partial responsibility to pedestrians and cyclist in collisions, instead of total responsibility in car to car crashes, which essentially means that in most states pedestrians and cyclist injured by bad drivers car rarely collect compensation, and unless the driver was drunk, no legal penalty either. Essentially, that means if you're a driver, don't drive drunk, carry insurance, and then don't sorry too much about killing or injuring pedestrians or cyclist because the law has your back.
@@langhamp8912 I live in tennessee. The law here is hug the right. Bicycles are considered a nuisance here. I've been chased and almost knocked down regularly by large and small dogs, and the sheriff's dept. does nothing about the problem. At most they talk to the owner, but still the dogs are still running loose up and down the roads chasing cars and people. I've been told twice by the police that I should not be riding on some of the roads here because cars regularly speed on these roads. Yet they won't ticket them because it would hurt their chances of being re elected in this county. So they just turn a blind eye to most things.
@@spartaeus I sometimes carry pepper spray. However, I did kept getting chased by two pitbulls (I was on my electric), and finally, one day I took them on a very long chase, from the city to well into the suburbs, past highways and such, seven miles at least, and every time they gave up I would stop and encourage them to chase me more. I never saw saw those two pitbulls again.
@@langhamp8912 You need to look up the law. I just did. Almost all the states have an FTR LAW. Which mean cyclists are required to stay far to the right. There is a chart showing that only 2 states in the us have equitable laws for bicyclists allowing them the same right of use of the roadway as automobiles. Bicyclists basically have no rights as far as traveling in the u.s.
@@spartaeus Again, this is untrue. Here's a video concerning taking up the lane with applicable codes. ruclips.net/video/M1TS3qBZFt4/видео.html In my opinion, all drivers should simply have speed governers in them; if you're not on a highway then you need to be going no faster than 25 mph, so crashes aren't usually fatal.
Interestingly one of my irritations both as a driver and a cyclist are those drivers who are nervous about overtaking a cyclist, often causing tail backs on the road and spooking you the cyclist in front.
@@jollygoodvelo There are some drivers who are nervous of overtaking anyway, you will often see them stuck behind tractors and buses etc even though there is a clear view of the road ahead. As a cyclist there as been a few occasions when I have actually waved the driver behind me to go on ahead because they were holding back needlessly. However It's not a good practice to do that.
Excellently put sir. If only the idiotic the non cycling car drivers watched your vlog. Unfortunately these idiots only watch Jeremy Clarkson Top Gear reruns . Keep up the great work
i would not be able to do this 3:33 hahaha i'd only use the edge of the road, the stress i'd feel knowing i'm holding up cars behind me would give me a stroke lol btw in Madeira where i live, people park their cars on the cycle path, some people with restaurants and bars etc have their delivery guys also park their big cars on the cycle path. people walking their dogs use the cycle path, and people jogging or just walking, they are alllll on the cycle path. impossible to actually ride a bike on it.
just a quickie, 3 abreast is not illegal as such. the highway code says cyclists shouldn't ride more than 2 abreast. not "must not" . however not recommended anyway. good videos keep it up.
Law abiding cyclist checking in. We all need to be aware of the rules in whatever country we're in. Some of the rules where I currently live are different to those in the UK, so it was a bit hard to get used to.
in brighton I ride on the pedestrian or foot path bit as pedestrian walk in cycle lane, I carry lights with me to use at light up time and some drivers and pedestrians think I go through red but I cycle through the amber light, also car drivers should learn they not own the road at all
@@jollygoodvelo Right you are, but here in SA there are sometimes no lanes, or just a few centimeters of lanes for cyclists, and South African drivers are notorious for being impatient..
The mindset of many commercial drivers in the UK is an utter disgrace.It's not just as cyclists you feel threatened and exposed. Tryng to keep to motorway speed limits and conserve fuel puts you in conflict with HGVs. A lot of HGV drivers carp on about lane two hogging, but you often see an HGV taking a couple of miles to overtake one of their mates, simply because their alloted journey time is so cut. The two abreast rule is part of the Highway Code, but you often see gangs of road club riders stretched out across rural roads.I can sympathise drivers held up by this.
I've had a fully suited mamil call me an organ donor because I wasn't wearing a helmet as he went through the red light I was waiting at. Made me chuckle 😁 It seems to me that there are different levels of skill no matter the vehicle. Don't know what the answer is but I do agree with strength in numbers argument, that the more people riding bikes there are the more other road users will expect to see us.
I never understand this 'them and us' mentality....im a cyclist AND a motorist!..I ride/drive safely because , well,. Why wouldn't I?...and I respect the rules of the road..
Since I'm using the Cycliq Fly12_CE and Fly6_CE cameras I make sure to adhere to all traffic laws and ride correctly on the roadway. It slows my average speed but that is ok. If involved in a criminal or civil case against a driver the defense attorney will likely subpoena my entire ride video. If a defense attorney can show a jury I blew through stop signs or red lights or yelled at other drivers before the driver struck me then they can very likely have the case dismissed. Also, my Wahoo automatically uploads to RideWithGPS and that too contains a historical record of whether I stopped at a controlled intersection. Garmin probably uploads to Strava or some other site that would allow a defense attorney to subpoena records for those cyclists too.
As a driver, I don't care if cyclists run red lights, so long as they slow and don't do it while pedestrians are crossing. As for interfering with cars, I figure the consequences for poor judgement on that are stronger than any fine or social pressure. They are much more likely to get themselves killed than a motorist. If that isn't enough to make them careful, nothing is anyway. As a driver, when I go over the speed limit (and most drivers do it pretty much whenever it's possible) I don't represent other drivers.
Aside from growing x ray vision there's not a lot i can do..The amount of emergency stops i must do because people don't know the meaning of red is staggering. One day my car will turn red when one splats on it and it'll be my fault even when it's not , that i can predict. I have an e bike and have zero issues with any other motorists,mostly because i use the cycle paths and routes
Totally agreed with what was said however cyclists are more exposed to severe accidents in case of collision with cars . Protecting yourself is #1, awareness is #2 .There are towns in North America who take cyclists safety seriously protecting them with concrete walls. Another option would be using cycling trails. Thank you.
Start by buying a Garmin Radar so you know when something is coming and how many. I find myself driving more away from the side and middle of the road when nothing is coming because I know the radar will warn me in time. Never leave home without it! In the Netherlands that is!
Thanks for the tip, Hans. It’s a little expensive for my taste. I’ve been looking over my shoulder before moving for years so I suppose there has to be something to it.
@@jollygoodvelo Once you have used it for a while you really wonder why you ever rode without it. It changes your feeling regarding safety and everything else in this video completely. Also if you don't want to be called a road hog, this is how you solve your part of the problem.
@@djtaylorutube Good point. Tried a mirror too, but it had to look at it all the time to be safe and found it distracting for what was happening in front of me. You can see the Radar as an extra layer of safety that you can use aside of your mirrors.
To all fellow riders: be visible, be predictable and follow the rules of the road. It is that easy. And perhaps, just perhaps, ride with a dashcam/actioncam if this is legal in your country.
I was cycling along a country road, 60mph was the limit, about 40 cyclists were in front but all in a big pack, no way to overtake which is very frustrating when you have deadlines to meet, pay all the money it cost to run a car then find ignorant self centred people being arses not letting you through, when there was a straight I tooted and over took the lot to the shouts of abuse from them, yes I 100% agree road cyclist and a nightmare for other road users.
@@jollygoodvelo I have never even made a cyclist swerve but I cannot stand their god like attitude and the same is oozing from you too. I cycle but a mountain bike on tracks and cross country because it is too dangerous on the road Darwinism springs to mind, even my road cyclist idiot brother in law broke his hip two weeks ago and blamed the van driver, the police said it was the cyclists fault as usual.
It doesn’t matter if you made a cyclist swerve or not you admit that you shouted so that makes you part of the problem. Making sweeping statements about all cyclists like that is just plain stupid. The bottoms line is that the roads aren’t the exclusive domain of motorists or cyclists. We have to share the road and treat each other with respect. By shouting at cyclists you have not honoured your part of that arrangement.
I apologise, I misread your initial comment. Sounds to me like the cyclists were being rude shouting back but then you were tooting at them. You did the right thing waiting and passing them safely but was the toot really necessary? Possibly if they were deliberately hogging the road.
Ah, subtitles in Slovakian? I don’t know a single word, sorry. I would love to visit Slovakia again and do some cycling. It was beautiful the last time I was there.
I agree entirely. But... not going through red lights? That's onerous. I reckon about 50 % of car drivers go through red lights. Luckily, 50% stop, and all the car drivers behind stop behind the stationary car. But for the first car to see a red light, I reckon 50% go through. Personally, when I come across a red light, I prefer to stop; check who has green; look for moving traffic; and if there is none, progress at caution with no car driver following me or about to turn across me. I know it winds up motorists, and I know I am at risk of spurious prosecution, but sometimes, you have to put safety first.
I cycle quite a lot but I'm also a motorist. I have to say the sense of entitlement of some cyclists and their disregard for their own safety is something which constantly astounds me. I have come up with a mathematical formula for groups of cyclists. >= 3 cyclists = >= 3 assholes. Let me give you an example. My wife and I were cycling around a well known Irish tourist town. We were using the cycle lanes of which there are many in this town. Lo and behold we saw a group of four cyclists ignoring the cycle lane and cycling down a very busy road laughing and carrying on while a large tailback of vehicles tried to pass them. I thought it incredibly ignorant and selfish of them.
@@jollygoodvelo Yiks! I'm not joking either.... I live a sheltered life of cycling, eating chocolate and watching RUclips... And often all at the same time 🤪🤪🤪😉 It's not Twilight is it? Or is that old hat now? I've never watched that either. You know what, it doesn't matter 😂😂😂 I didn't even realise Prince William has three children until the other day 🙄 Or is it 2? I'll go now because La Vuelta highlights are on.....
Shouldn't have to, but I make a point of a *friendly* hand gesture to thank motorists when they do something sensible eg sit behind you for ages waiting for a safe place to overtake. The more we demonstrate responsibility and courtesy, whatever the provocation, the more likely we are to change attitudes. As I said, I know we shouldn't have to but we cycle in the real world.
I was almost ran over 2 days ago on my BMX bike , and the driver was speeding across the main road to get to the side street, that l was crossing. I heard the screeching tires. And was almost t- boned. Truthfully we both should have been paying more attention. What l don't like about cyclists while I'm driving is that some of them insist on using the street, when there is a bicycle trail on the side of the road
I’m a cyclist and only a cyclist. I drove for 30 years but my license was revoked in 2007 due to an eyes problem. Anyway. I think cyclists I have ridden with have a lot to answer to and I can understand why drivers get the hump with them. My main bugbear is not what you have mentioned, it’s the stopping at junctions all across the road, stopping and waiting and not getting off the road and being completely oblivious to other road users. It seems like perfectly normal sane individuals don their cycling gear and turn into complete deadheads. I moan to my fellow cyclists almost every ride but my moans fall on deaf ears. Cyclists,(I’m one) please be aware of other road users. Rant over.
tubetardism 20/20 I am a cyclist and in my experience almost every time I ride with a group when stopping at a junction there is no order and invariably block all outlets whether turning left or right. Also just stopping on a road and not getting out of the way.
Now, we have to add in all of these electric scooters, electric skateboards and those 1 wheel electric thingies on the sidewalks and on the roads in the city (US). The motorists are really pissed off now because they encounter these folks not only on the road but on the sidewalks and we cyclists catch the heat.
1.58 minutes in please add YES WE DO GO THRU RED LIGHTS. I am a driver and a cyclist. and it gets me when I stop at a red light and a rider cares on strat parts me.
I will move over into the middle of the lane on skinny roads to prevent folks from passing me when there is on coming traffic. Otherwise, the passing motorist get a little too close for comfort. They can wait a few extra seconds until the opposite lane is clear. Then I move over and let them pass. Every once and a while I'll get a "bird" for doing this but that's ok compared to being sideswiped.
Always a touchy subject. For 95+% of the ride we keep as far right as possible(US where we drive on the right side of the road :)). The driver may own that car but they don't own the road. Most vehicles pass with care, some well.... On red lights I always try to obey except when they are controlled by sensor. The sensors don't recognize bicyclists and you could wait for a long time. That being said I stop only go when totally clear. The biggest complaint I hear is Stop Signs and have to admit not always stopping for those. Having to loose all momentum, un-clip, clip in get going can really kill your ride. I do slow down and can stop if need be, no cyclist wants to be hit and we certainly need to be our own best lookout. Non-cyclists think that's hearsay but oh-well.
![[SFM] Risky Recital](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RzNkY1_Nk3o/mqdefault.jpg)
As a frequent road cyclist the biggest problem on the road which I encounter is the discourteous and dangerous 'white van delivery man'. Far too many of these drivers are in a hurry. Most are even paid a bonus to deliver as many parcels as they can within their shift which only encourages them to be more impatient. Seriously considering tackling my MP about outlawing the bonus culture amongst parcel delivery businesses. Great video Leonard.
Similar principle applies to taxi drivers in my experience. I don't think I've ever encountered an Addison Lee driver who wasn't acting like they were in Mad Max
I know it doesn't excuse people's cavalier attitude towards cyclists but I've heard it's not a bonus scheme but a "if you don't deliver X number of parcels a day or empty your van you will eventually be sacked for not reaching targets" as a lot of them are self employed , so a lot of them are under pressure which makes them act stupidly in desperation.
In a car, it literally takes the tiniest physical effort (press the brake pedal) to wait the 5-20 seconds that it will take to pass a cyclist safely. A driver is barely inconvenienced, even if the Cyclist is "taking the line" to turn right for example. You could literally kill someone for the sake of waiting a few seconds, your bad day could be catastrophic for someone else.
Personally i'm more of the opinion that selfish people do selfish things and that pretty much extends to every part of life, not just passing cyclists on the road or indeed to cycling itself.
Selfish people do selfish things. Basically sums it all up.
evilrslade
Drivers who are aggressive/reckless/dangerous are, in my observation, equal opportunity. They are every bit as bad with other motorists and pedestrians as with cyclists.
As to the importance of time, my standard is simple. If someone in the car has a dilated cervix and increasing contractions, time is important. 😉
Otherwise, not.
Well put !
I have even been honked at, just because I used the road and not a cycle lane, even though I did not at all hold up the driver (I was able to talk to the driver right after, and asked why he honked, and he said it was because I was not in the cycle lane. I asked if I delayed him at all, and he said no.). It was a short stretch of road going downward hill, and toward a roundabout. I chose to use the main lane, as I intended to go straight on in that roundabout, and I know I am safer taking up a position in the middle of the lane, instead of using that cycle lane that just increases the chance to get into a right hook accident with right-turning drivers coming from behind (we drive on the right-hand side here in Norway;). People behind the wheel often see things from the perspective of a driver, and do not see all the dangerous factors cyclists learn to look after when they get experienced, and that is why the decision to use a cycle lane or not is to be based on each cyclist skills and experience, and not to some random clueless driver that happens to come along.
Btw, here in Norway, we have the same right to use the road as in the UK, and no cycle lanes are compulsory to use.
While true, I can never ever beat a car, truck or bus on a bike, so I have to use my common sense because they could F me up with that car. With that said, there are some areas I ride where drivers are very aware of and accommodating to cyclists and then there are areas where they don't give a rats ass; you have to know those areas.
Yep, that intro, I was beginning to wonder where you were taking us. Totally agree, at age 72, I now tend to ride far into the country, so I can enjoy cycling, and not worry about crazy motorists.
I don’t blame you. Much too busy In towns these days.
Hi Leonard
You forgot that huge irritation we cause motorists. Wearing Lycra 😂.
Heavens forbid!
That is a very gender-specific 'irritation' :)
I am very courteous and when on congested roads, I ride by rules as I were in car. Very respectful. I wave to cars who are courteous, Always thanking them for not putting me at risk. I also wave and mouth sorry if it’s me at fault for doing something to put us all at risk. But, Generally, There will always be those who just have an engrained frustration deep within their brains and hearts for cyclists. Ironically, No motorist ever gets mad at me on descents because I’m usually doin at least 15-20km/h faster than they are. 🤣 I wish more motorists were conscious of how nerve wrecking it can be for a cyclist when being passed while they’re on a steep climb. On an incline, The law should be motorists must be at least 5m away from a cyclist when passing. Can be terrifying trying to keep a straight line at the very edge of the road on a steep climb, But have your legs and heart exploding and then having to worry about being hit by a car if you were to swerve just the tiniest bit into the road. It’s a shame that all the well paved roads here in California are usually the ones congested with most traffic. I resort to the less-managed roads and sacrifice comfort for peace of mind knowing I’m less likely to be hit. The problem is things have grown too convenient and it’s easy to fall victim to the daily rush via car. People forget to how to he able to sit back and enjoy the ride of life. That’s why when it takes them an extra few seconds out of their day to pass by a group of cyclists, They act as though it was 3 minutes time instead. Riding a bike gives you a truly wonderful perspective on life and more people need that POV!
I agree, but 5M is impossible on a lot of roads in Devon
I was cycling across the USA. I was pedaling up a 4 mile hill in Wyoming.
I looked back and there was a wide load truck coming up behind me at least
3 lanes wide. I got off my bike and walked into the weeds about 100ft.
As he went by he beeped “thanks”
Sometimes all it takes is a little cooperation and common sense.
Like when you passed that tractor uphill then realized they might pass you...Leonard!
Another excellent video, Leonard. Thanks.
I like to wear a mirror stick on my cycling helmet, as it helps me be aware of what’s behind, and to work collaboratively with motorists to let them pass. I would recommend mirrors to all fellow cyclists; it’s a smart way to avoid some potentially dangerous situations.
However, full praise for Leonard for his continually great videos.
You're a guy I could really get behind; especially in a headwind! Seriously, it's nice to hear such reasoned and reasonable opinions.
When I road raced everyone wanted to ride in my slipstream and then overtake 50 metres from the finish line.
Excellent Leonard! There is one instance, at least in the US, one can pass through a redlight: "If the sensors can't detect your bike and trigger the light, it's considered a defective light. After sitting through one light cycle, you can proceed-yielding the right-of-way to any approaching vehicles."
Can’t you also turn right on red in certain situations?
@@jollygoodvelo True.
Sometimes, I have waved motorists to come over the detector loop when they have stopped too far behind us or the white line.
There is no internationally accepted hand signal for "come forward over the detector loop", as far as I am aware.
In the States, technically cyclists are supposed to be treated like a car. Thus, we can technically ride in the middle of the lane. Most of us ride to the right though, simply because we know that in the collision between 4,000 lb car and 20 lb bike, the car always wins. The downside is that all of the broken glass and trash also accumulates to the right, so the risk of a flat tire increases. For those of you cousins in the UK, of course, flip right vs. left and this makes more sense. What I do is stay about six inches from the white line, thus cars can more easily pass but I am not riding in trash.
What we as cyclists need to do a better job of, is signaling our turns, and stopping at red lights and stop signs. If we want the courtesy of the rules of the road, we need to abide by those rules ourselves. And we are frequently guilty of using those rules when they benefit us, but also ignoring them when convenient.
Signaling unfortunately only helps if the drivers actually know what the signals mean.
It's much the same here, cyclists are just slow moving vehicles and are supposed be treated as such. Our government recently passed new laws requiring passing vehicles to leave a space of at least 1.5 metres between themselves and a cyclist or risk a £100 fine. So far I haven't heard of it actually being enforced, and even recently had a van pass me with just a few inches to spare in full view of a passing police car, who did nothing.
As a cyclist I pay the same vehicle excise tax as car drivers because I also own a car. On days that I choose to ride rather than drive, instead of receiving abuse I should be receiving a refund as I am not emitting any emissions from my car.
In a just world, that would be so.
Exactly but it will never happen. Once the government have your money, that’s it.
Best video I have seen on why we ride the way we do should be a compulsory watch for all cyclists & drivers.
Thanks Mark.
One of your best, Leonard. Needs to be shared so everyone can see and understand. Although, whether they'll take the time is another matter.
Thanks. If only people did take the time to understand.
I personally liked your into. But I'm geeky that way. Loved you analysis. Once again you got your point out while not insulting anyone. (Though some may be determined to) Loved the whole post.
Great video Leonard, as a kid in London I always thought that horses and cyclists had the right of way over motorized vehicles, however times have changed.
As a cyclist ( and a motorist) I do my best to be aware of the traffic situation at all times and concentrate on any hazards around me. Vehicles passing and then turning left immediately in front of me and they haven't even been aware that I was there!
During the daylight hours one must at least have a bright strobing rear light this sort of wakes up the motorists who are about to pass. Most of the time I get a wider berth than without a light.
Drivers overtaking and immediately turning left really annoy me. This led to me being knocked off once. I don’t think they realise how fast we ride.
“A rush to buy beard oil”😂 That was a good one!👊
The hipster type seem to be the worst offenders from what I’ve seen.
I've had an occasion when I was at a crossing and it was a red light for traffic and green Man for me , a cyclist came tearing through and luckily I was not a bit further into the road or I'd have been knocked down . I can only guess he'd built up a lot of speed and couldn't slow down
Great video! Thank you!
One note: When lots of cyclists are in a line and take the entire lane, they form a very, very long single slow vehicle that is impossible to pass. I see motorcycling clubs also do this. A driver simply can't pass a line of 20 slow vehicles that stay close together. We have to share the road.
As I say, is it easier for a motorist to pass a long line of single riders or a shorter,winder line? Suppose it depends on the road conditions, etc. The riders themselves could, perhaps break off into smaller groups that are easier to pass.
@@jollygoodvelo I'd personally feel more comfortable passing a wide group of cyclists than a long, thin line of cyclists. My reasoning is that a wider group means that I can wait for the oncoming lane to be clear and then give a full lane's space to pass quickly and minimise my time out of my own lane, but I'd struggle to pass a really long line of cyclists without worrying I might get surprise forced back into my lane mid-overtake and not be able to give them a safe amount of space.
Also my engine is about the size of a tictac, so it takes me a little longer than for other cars.
Thank you. Very interesting narrative and certainly relevant and useful to cycling in Pittsburgh, PA. I face the same challenges albeit on the right side of the road.
Thank you.
Road Tax??Road tax was abolished in 1937.What motorist pay now is V.E.D. (Vehicle Excise Duty)This is based on vehicle emissions, and as cyclist don't emit any emission, we don't have to pay it.
That’s why I say the ‘so called road tax’.
When I said cyclist don't emit emission, I was of course referring to the vehicle(bicycle), not the rider, especially after a curry night. lol
I emit plenty of carbon dioxide when I breath hard up climbs.
@@johnthomson8692 wish drivers knew that but still when it was road tax I think I heard most went to hospitals and not the road
I live in tennessee. The law here is hug the right. Bicycles are considered a nuisance here. I've been chased and almost knocked down regularly by large and small dogs, and the sheriff's dept. does nothing about the problem. At most they talk to the owner, but still the dogs are still running loose up and down the roads chasing cars and people. I've been told twice by the police that I should not be riding on some of the roads here because cars regularly speed on these roads. Yet they won't ticket them because it would hurt their chances of being re elected in this county. So they just turn a blind eye to most things.
Those cycle paths in the Netherlands. Don't think too much of them. I'm Dutch, living in what is called over here cycling paradise and I haven't been there yet! Doing about 1000 km a month for commuting and fun. THNX for all the great content a real world cyclist can relate to!
Well, I was pretty impressed with them. Maybe I’m easily pleased!!
Great video on a touchy subject. Here in Oklahoma, cyclists are to ride as far to the right as safely possible, but that is left up to individual interpretation. I have actually had a police officer pull my friends and I over saying we were "blocking" traffic. The Law actually states we cyclists are not considered a hindrance, but are traffic ourselves. We normally always move to a single file as far to the edge as possible when motor vehicles are approaching from behind, but there were potholes and debris. He did not know the actual law and how it is written. Instead of causing a situation, we just let him say his piece and move on. Here we also can ride two up, but in some circumstances single is better. I myself always try to just allow the vehicle to pass when the chance arrives, knowing that it will keep said motorists from developing a Bad attitude towards cyclists. Some cyclists only think of themselves and act as if they are entitled and only hurt the vehicle and cycle dynamic. I have seen several bike shop group rides that will literally hog the whole road. There just needs to be a balance, treat motorists with a bit of consideration and hopefully they will develop a respect for cyclists.
As far as dedicated cycle lanes, check individual city ordinances, some have rules that state if there is a lane parallel to the roadway, cyclists are required to ride on it instead of the road.
Overall, I agree with what you've stated. Cyclists should always adhere to the rules of the road, obey the laws accordingly, and just be courteous to everyone. After all you should be in a great mood, you're riding your bike. 😁
Loved the intro.A very topical subject and enjoyed watching .
Thanks.
What a great video, you hit the nail on the head!
Thanks.
Really sorry that I can only like this video once. You echo my thoughts and I am sharing this video on my Facebook! I've told this same story many, many times. Thanks!
Thanks Norm.
Why shouldn’t cyclist use the roads fairly. After all we pay for the roads too yet do virtually no damage, While our cars are sitting at home. As for two abreast I’ve never seen a car with single file seats.
Very good point.
exactly!
I ride a 96 cromoly Lavadome. It looks like shit on purpose to deter thieves lol
@@ripp3rjak934 Nice! I have a 1998 Lava Dome (in Positively Purple) and love it! I finally "replaced" it (not really since it is still in the shed awaiting a rear wheel rebuild due to the hub finally wearing out) with a 2018 Lava Dome. Loving the new one too, and amazing what has changed with 20 years of engineering, lol.
@@sta1814ff I'll match you with my 2015 Fire Mountain Olive green. It's just a frame for now.
leonard thanks for another great vlog am sure you live fairly close to me usually recognise the roads
I’m near Waterlooville in Hampshire, if you see me out and about don’t be afraid to say hello.
@@jollygoodvelo I have seen you a few times when I have been in the car usually on the hayling island road I live in Chichester
Yes, Hayling is one of regular rides. I also ride to Chichester occasionally. .
Great analysis, as a cyclist and a motorist I see the best and the worst of both camps. Also, as a former police officer I know a bit more about traffic law than the average motorist and when they get confronted with with facts straight out of the highway code book most just get abusive.
I think people get abusive when they are in the wrong but don’t want to admit it!
In my point of view , as a cyclist for 30 years now , my major concern is in Autumn is slippery and clogged routes . Motorists share the same story with us .
Here patience and good reading of the traffic is my sole way to be safe !
Patience is definitely the key for motorists and cyclists alike.
great video m8 i do commute to work a lot besides my club day riding and i noticed lately a lot of car drivers go out of there way to have a go at you and many times had them narrowly pass me i got front and rear lights that are quite bright but also use a seeable jacket that lights up against lights the other aspect is been safe
Sometimes motorists just don’t see us no matter what we do,
The roads are paid for by ALL taxpayers, even if they never had a car. Road tax does not exist , emissions tax does. I hope I am correct on this issue, couldn't be arsed to google it.Thanks Leonard.
You are 100% correct. Shame all motorists aren’t aware of this fact.
So why do motorist pay more? why is it to the engine size of their vehicle? self centred lot you are.
@@panspermiahunter7597 Its a pollutiion tax, this is why motorists pay more based on engine size. People on bikes are classed as band A vehicles, which are exempt from emissions duty (VED). Do you call the drivers of band A vehicles "self centred" too? I doubt it.
@@os8902 Like your own comment haha
@@os8902 yet people pay it even if they don't use the vehicle, just to be parked on the road all year without starting it once you must pay
Great video, thanks..nice to see some of my boyhood home roads featured too.
Glad you liked it.
what about that one a few months ago ,woman walks out from side of road while on mobile phone into path of cyclist .she gets knocked down, outcome cyclist told he should have been more aware of the actions of pedestrians and woman gets compensation what message does that give out some of these judges have some strange ideas.great videos leonard always ready for the next one
I know, it’s bonkers, isn’t it. You can be made a criminal for obeying the law.
Yep, that judge has set an exceptionally dangerous precedent.
great info
I didn't know the bike speed limit on the bike / ped. path. 🤔🚴 noted! 👍🚴🌱
There are no speed limits for bikes in the UK as strange as that sounds.
Hi Leonard you make great videos and that has urged me to get a GoPro so I can share my rides with my family. I bought the Hero 7 Black and the new Chesty mount. Being new to this I’m looking for advice how to use it . When used in the chest mount does the camera have to be upside down? Any advice would be appreciated.
I have a film explain the best way to use a GoPro on the bike. You might have to have a look though my library. I will say that you don’t need to use the GoPro upside down when using a chesty.
Thank you I will have a look through your videos
Well said , and great on the bike coverage
Thanks.
excellent presentation of a complicated subject. Thanks!!
Thanks Ted.
Three areas that all road users should be tested on
1.Awareness
2.Awareness
3.Awareness
Awareness of your own knowledge or lack of it
Awareness of what other road users may do, driving a car is different to driving a HGV, riding a bike is different to riding a horse.
Awareness that just because one driver/rider/cyclist is a total idiot, doesn't mean that all drivers/riders/cyclists are total idiots.
Very nice video.
I can only agree with you. Sadly there are many factors that can change our ability to be aware of things.
Great well balanced video !
Only thing I would I would add is pose the question of cyclists having insurance (ouch) as resposible cyclists we expect recompense when a 4 wheel vehicle hits us so why not the otherway round. I cycle regularly and drive like many of us it cost me over £500 when an adult cyclist "going for his strava" hit the side of my car causing extensive damage to the paint work. Im still trying to get the money out of him.... Now thats unfair...
Many responsible cyclists in the UK are members of British Cycling. Part of that membership is third party insurance.
Hey Leonard - What's the black container in your water cage? Is it your fix-it kit or one of those electronic pumps? If it's a pump, what are your thoughts about it?
It’s basically the fix it kit with my spare tubes, tyre levers and multi tool. Easily transferable between bikes and I don’t need a saddle bag.
@@jollygoodvelo But, stay hydrated, my friend! ;-)
Like the opening sequence to this video.Why do traffic lights have cameras on? Answer- Because some motorists will cross red lights if they can I,ve seen it happen late at night near where I live.
Almost all cyclists are also motorists, but only a small percentage of motorists are also cyclists. Therefore, as the minority (when cycling), we need to be aware of our rights . . . but more importantly, our responsibilities as road users.You may be legally in the right, but if you get hit by a 3,000 pound car, it won't matter. My motto is "if I can't do it in my car, I can't do it on my bike". I also try to stay as close to the side of the road as I safely can. but I take the lane (with a lot of warning to the motorist) when necessary.
Signalling to other road users is crucial, especially if you are moving to the middle of the lane.
Particularly well done Leonard!
Thanks Don.
great video. we are so vulnerable on the road its unfortunate not all motorist realize that
Shame indeed.
Years ago I had the open door syndrome, thankfully the window was open and I went straight through! Now living in the country you don't get the vast amounts of traffic, but have to deal with the one impatient driver who is desperate to pass at all costs, or the F1 merchant who give you a papers width as they pass at great speed. The pot holes are just terrible round here and you find yourself making the decision to either slow right down or even stop for the passing car, or hit the pot hole!
Blimey you were lucky with the window.
Even when I ride on field and forest paths, I experience dangerous situations almost every day on my way to and from work. Today I drove into a short and narrow tunnel, which directly turns into a left turn and a van came to meet me and drove on my side ... and I dodged and continued to take the curve on the outer edge.
The craziest was a Volvo FH16 truck without trailer which came to meet me on a narrow and bumpy forest road.
I’m surprised that even on field and forrest paths it can be dangerous.
I would say everyone has the right to be on the road.Unless it is a highway/freeway.The Dutch have the best cycling infrastructure hands down.Love the videos
Yes, some roads should only be for cars but the smaller local ones should be for all.
@@jollygoodvelo Some roads should also just be for cyclists and public transport such as buses and taxis. To my knowledge, more and more roads in larger cities worldwide have done this, to get heavy motorized traffic away from the city core. Much better air, much quieter and a lot safer for everyone.
Agree 👍
Thanks Leonard - an interesting and important discussion point. On the prickly question of road tax, for your UK followers, I've often wondered at the percentage of adult cyclists who also pay this and I suspect it will be pretty high. One other consideration with this dual cyclist/driver group's mindset is - when driving how do they (we) feel about cyclists? I take particular care not to pass unless there's a good clearance to avoid the slipstream affect, but this is often to both the chagrin of of the drivers behind me and the deep suspicion of the cyclist in front whose welfare is my main concern at that moment. Heigh-ho.
I always give cyclists plenty of room when I am overtaking in the car yet when I am on the bike I always get a little suspicious when a motorist waits behind me. Ironic isn’t it.
Well you wouldn't understand what it's like to run out of beard oil
When you need it, you need it.
is beard oil good..🤔
You're too cool ! Keep making videos !
I will!
Here in Manila, some designated bike lanes are just cobblestones painted over. It's like I'm cycling in the Paris-Roubaix. That's why I take the main roads, which unfortunately are riddled with motorists who either try to run through a red light or just completely ignore it. People on motorbikes are also pretty rowdy here. They just come up behind and beside you and whoosh past you without warning.
That doesn't sound good riding on cobblestones.
i am a cyclist and a car driver and delivery driver in a van and agree with most you say apart from two three abreast riding it really pisses me of as a car driver and no need for it
I personally think that two abreast is ok under certain circumstances but, as I say, we have to exercise a bit of common sense.
agree to a certain extent maybe in the countryside virtually no cars about but as soon as you encounter any amount of cars you should quit two abreast riding
Unless there are loads of you. It’s a difficult balance as passing a long group of riders in single file can be equally as difficult.
I've cycled most of my life and hate cycling in the road so find ANY other route when I can, when I have to use the roads I will use as much of the road as I need to keep myself safe, if it's a wide road I'll take the room I need to not going down drain cover dips and allow the cars to pass freely, if it's a bit more narrow and the car could possibly squeeze past onto if I rode right next to the edge of the road where I might get into trouble with pot holes or parked car doors etc I'll move out into the middle and hold back the cars until it's safe for them to pass, they can't still pass me if there is nothing coming the other way the same way they would pass a slow car , I know I'm holding them up and annoying them BUT my life is just as important when I'm riding a bike as it is when I'm driving a car right?
Agree with everything you say in this video except for one thing - the cyclist/motorist distinction. Most adult cyclists are also motorists. Those of us motorists who make some of our journeys by bike are contributing to the general well-being by causing less pollution, less congestion, less damage to roads and fewer accidents. And by engaging in regular exercise as part of our travelling we will stay healthier and put less strain on the NHS. We need more of us road users to get on bikes and end the false dichotomy.
Sadly there is the motorist distinction and it is mainly in the heads of the people who only drive. Us cyclists who are also motorists just see road users.
Primary position for bicycles doesn't exist where I live, we have to stay as far to the left as possible. Though all the exceptions for hazards still apply and it also doesn't apply for two abreast. But as a addition to this they just passed a minimum 3 foot distance law for cars when passing. Not to mention our bike lanes are also few and far between a plus people love to park their cars in them.
What country is that?
@@k-rj740 I live in the States but i can only speak for my state of Ohio. Each state has their own laws. We also have a Impeding the flow/slow moving law that you can get cited for. It's not bike specific but seems to be used on bikes more often.
@@crocketgsxr6 Do you drive at the left-hand side in the US? I am pretty certain you drive on the right don't you? ;) Btw, you country have somewhat stricter rules, but still, the law gives cyclists a right to use the road, also in the middle of the lane (known as lane control or primary position) when it is required due to the safety of the cyclist. You ever heard about CyclingSavvy? It is an official program in the US that teach cyclists through courses to be a better and safer road user. They teach cyclists about lane control, and this is what their web page says about it: (This is just an excerpt from their webpage)
*“I thought the law required bicyclists to keep all the way to the right.”*
While most states do say that bicyclists must drive as close as “practicable” or as “safe” to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, they also provide many exceptions to this rule, including:
•When overtaking and passing another vehicle
•When traveling at or near the same speed as other traffic
•When preparing for a left turn
•Where a lane is too narrow to share safely with another vehicle
•Anywhere right turns are authorized (CA)
•To avoid any condition that makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge
•Many surface hazards - such as potholes, puddles, debris, and broken glass - are more common near the edge of the roadway.
Keeping to the right can often hide a bicyclist from a turning motorist at the critical time and place. Most overtaking crashes involve a motorist who attempts to squeeze past (illegally) in a lane that is too narrow to share. (Check out this animation to see all the hazards that make staying far right NOT practicable!
)
*“Why weren’t you in the bike lane?”*
Many of the reasons we avoid bike lanes are not visible or apparent to a person in a car. Of course, if a bike lane provides a clean, safe place to ride, we use it. Most of the same reasons why bicyclists will drive towards the center of a lane are good reasons for leaving the bike lane. Here are just a few reasons:
•Bike lanes collect the debris and glass that is swept off the road. Sometimes you can see it because it’s big, like tree branches, but sometimes only we can see it. A small shard of glass can cause a flat tire. (How many tires did you change on your way to work today?)
•Many bike lanes are designed poorly or just plain dangerous. Bike lanes next to parked cars are often entirely within a hazard area we call “the door zone.” A suddenly-opened door can kill a cyclist.
•When approaching intersections, or in areas with lots of driveways, a bike lane puts us in a conflict zone. Bike lanes increase our risk for all of the common crossing and turning crashes by making us irrelevant, or even invisible to motorists.
•That may not even be a bike lane. It has become popular to add edge lines several feet to the left of the curb. This space is substandard and not safe for a bicyclist to use, though many bicyclists are tricked into riding there.
Even in states with mandatory bike lane use, the law allows cyclists the same exceptions as it does to keeping right in general.
cyclingsavvy.org/hows-my-driving/
@@k-rj740 Yep on we drive on the right. The lanes are taught and used for all other vehicles( I also ride a motorcycle and use it). Everything listed is also true but those are EXCEPTIONS. Normal travel in my state is the far right and if none of the exceptions apply then your can get cites for slow travel/impeding the flow. Really what I should have said is There is No Primary lane right of way(in my state at least) it can be used if there is no other choice. Though it is also permitted to ride on the sidewalks/foot paths unless otherwise posted.
I had to laugh loud about the strava joke!
I do my best!
Great video. Adjustable to the local law of the lands in which one resides. In my case germany. Where it is not required to cycle on cycle lanes except if a blue sign (showing a bicycle) demands it. However, it is absolutely illegal to cycle on sidewalks (pedestrian walkways) except for kids up to 10 years. And yes, of course it is illegal to jump a red light.
I am quite frankly fed up with cyclists that do not follow the rules. It is simply whataboutery to point at motorists that do not follow the rules either. Two wrongs do not make one right.
That said, overtaking motorized vehicles have to keep at least 1,5m of distance to the cyclists at all times, taking into account his swerving and measured from the farthest outer edge of the driver/bicycle compound to the farthest outer edge of the car (usually the mirror). Nearly nobody does that, and nothing happens except if an accident happens, in which case it will be very much important. And yes, quite often that means in a city that the line i'm cycling in is blocked for cars for all intents and purposes as i have to keep at least 1m, better 1,5 from parked cars to prevent driving into a suddenly opened door.
It’s the same here in the UK that motorists have to give at least 1.5 m when passing a cyclist but many pass closer. They say it’s the same as standing on a train platform with a fast train going by.
@@jollygoodvelo Hi Leonard. There are several places in the USA where it is perfectly legal to ride through a red light. This is one of them where I pass through on my ride home from work... goo.gl/maps/oqRuKPqZaDKR1dMF9 But, if you notice there is not a solid thick white line crossing the bike lane. Other places you are legally required to stop will either have the thick solid white line extended into the bike lane or have a pedestrian crosswalk crossing the bike path.... goo.gl/maps/CEz4WivSqinAJRTM9 But Yes, places where it is okay to "Jump" the red light are very few and far in-between.
I have two friends who hate cyclists. Always on to me about using their road. I tell them most cycle tracks are strewn with thorns, glass etc.
Some people just don’t see beyond the end of their own nose.
Using their road? They really think a public road is their road? And the simple fact that a person need a lisence to be allowed to use the road with a car, tells us that driving is not an inherent right. Cycling on the road, however, is an inherent right.
After having been ignored appropriate space 5 times in two days. 5 times! I cannot agree more.
Some drivers just do not see us.
Nice one. Thanks.
Thanks.
I stopped cycle commuting and started driving when I lived in the UK. I didn't want to die, and it was elevating my stress levels. I cycle to work now I live in Europe. There's better infrastructure, but it's mostly about driver attitude and compitence. Tbh, I think the problem is that English people are the worst.
You maybe right but if you notice, there are cyclists that drive a car and English too and not a problem. What I hate when driving a car is a cyclist breaking the law and giving other cyclists a bad name. I have question, do you think strava causes issues with people trying to beat someone or trying to beat their pb’s for a section or a route at the expense of their or other people’s safety.
In the U.S. it's illegal to ride 2 abreast. We also are required to stay as far to the right side as safely possible.
I've been pulled over by the police for not pulling off the road to allow a line of autos to pass me, even though there is no law here requiring me to do so.
That's not true at all! Most states, I believe 47 of them, allow two abreast, while only 3 states (Alabama is one of them) require bicyclist to hug the right side. All other states allow the bicyclist to take the full lane.
However, almost all states assign partial responsibility to pedestrians and cyclist in collisions, instead of total responsibility in car to car crashes, which essentially means that in most states pedestrians and cyclist injured by bad drivers car rarely collect compensation, and unless the driver was drunk, no legal penalty either.
Essentially, that means if you're a driver, don't drive drunk, carry insurance, and then don't sorry too much about killing or injuring pedestrians or cyclist because the law has your back.
@@langhamp8912 I live in tennessee. The law here is hug the right. Bicycles are considered a nuisance here. I've been chased and almost knocked down regularly by large and small dogs, and the sheriff's dept. does nothing about the problem. At most they talk to the owner, but still the dogs are still running loose up and down the roads chasing cars and people. I've been told twice by the police that I should not be riding on some of the roads here because cars regularly speed on these roads. Yet they won't ticket them because it would hurt their chances of being re elected in this county. So they just turn a blind eye to most things.
@@spartaeus I sometimes carry pepper spray. However, I did kept getting chased by two pitbulls (I was on my electric), and finally, one day I took them on a very long chase, from the city to well into the suburbs, past highways and such, seven miles at least, and every time they gave up I would stop and encourage them to chase me more.
I never saw saw those two pitbulls again.
@@langhamp8912 You need to look up the law. I just did. Almost all the states have an FTR LAW. Which mean cyclists are required to stay far to the right. There is a chart showing that only 2 states in the us have equitable laws for bicyclists allowing them the same right of use of the roadway as automobiles. Bicyclists basically have no rights as far as traveling in the u.s.
@@spartaeus Again, this is untrue. Here's a video concerning taking up the lane with applicable codes.
ruclips.net/video/M1TS3qBZFt4/видео.html
In my opinion, all drivers should simply have speed governers in them; if you're not on a highway then you need to be going no faster than 25 mph, so crashes aren't usually fatal.
Interestingly one of my irritations both as a driver and a cyclist are those drivers who are nervous about overtaking a cyclist, often causing tail backs on the road and spooking you the cyclist in front.
To be fair, they may not be nervous. They might be waiting for a safe opportunity to overtake. I know I appreciate it when a driver is patient.
@@jollygoodvelo There are some drivers who are nervous of overtaking anyway, you will often see them stuck behind tractors and buses etc even though there is a clear view of the road ahead. As a cyclist there as been a few occasions when I have actually waved the driver behind me to go on ahead because they were holding back needlessly. However It's not a good practice to do that.
are you selling a lot of merchandise?
I’ve sold about 40 jerseys so far.
Excellently put sir. If only the idiotic the non cycling car drivers watched your vlog. Unfortunately these idiots only watch Jeremy Clarkson Top Gear reruns . Keep up the great work
Jeremy Clarkson...the man that made it cool to hate cyclists.
i would not be able to do this 3:33 hahaha i'd only use the edge of the road, the stress i'd feel knowing i'm holding up cars behind me would give me a stroke lol btw in Madeira where i live, people park their cars on the cycle path, some people with restaurants and bars etc have their delivery guys also park their big cars on the cycle path. people walking their dogs use the cycle path, and people jogging or just walking, they are alllll on the cycle path. impossible to actually ride a bike on it.
Sometimes you just gotta do what you need to get up a climb.
You can debate legalities until bumper hits arse. You never win!
Sadly you have a point. We need to keep our wits about us.
just a quickie, 3 abreast is not illegal as such. the highway code says cyclists shouldn't ride more than 2 abreast. not "must not" . however not recommended anyway. good videos keep it up.
True, however you may invite the wrath a psychotic cat driver. 2 abreast was bad enough, 3 abreast? Their heads might explode (hoping)
Law abiding cyclist checking in. We all need to be aware of the rules in whatever country we're in. Some of the rules where I currently live are different to those in the UK, so it was a bit hard to get used to.
Yes, I was thinking of that when I made the film which is why I tried to make it clear that I was talking about the UK.
Brilliant I learnt few things from video
"Those People"...lol. Love it.
Better than ‘some people’ {shakes head.}
in brighton I ride on the pedestrian or foot path bit as pedestrian walk in cycle lane, I carry lights with me to use at light up time and some drivers and pedestrians think I go through red but I cycle through the amber light, also car drivers should learn they not own the road at all
No, definitely not. If anything, I try to use as little of the road as possible... due to inconsiderate drives here in SA
I think there are inconsiderate drivers everywhere, sadly.
@@jollygoodvelo Right you are, but here in SA there are sometimes no lanes, or just a few centimeters of lanes for cyclists, and South African drivers are notorious for being impatient..
Good luck with it. It doesn’t sound ideal. One of my bucket list things is to ride the Cap Argus. Hopefully that is on closed roads.
@@jollygoodvelo As far as i know, it is on closed roads... but i havent done it, so i dont know. The Cape is far from where I live. Cheers
The mindset of many commercial drivers in the UK is an utter disgrace.It's not just as cyclists you feel threatened and exposed.
Tryng to keep to motorway speed limits and conserve fuel puts you in conflict with HGVs.
A lot of HGV drivers carp on about lane two hogging, but you often see an HGV taking a couple of miles to overtake one of their mates, simply because their alloted journey time is so cut.
The two abreast rule is part of the Highway Code, but you often see gangs of road club riders stretched out across rural roads.I can sympathise drivers held up by this.
It’s a balance of riding two abreast or strung out in a line: do the motorists want to pass something long and thin or shorter but wider?
Our CTC rides split up into smaller groups if numbers are high.
This is helpful on busier trunk routes and can be relaxed to suit minor roads.
Thanks for great info
Thanks for watching.
Well said💯💪
I've had a fully suited mamil call me an organ donor because I wasn't wearing a helmet as he went through the red light I was waiting at. Made me chuckle 😁 It seems to me that there are different levels of skill no matter the vehicle. Don't know what the answer is but I do agree with strength in numbers argument, that the more people riding bikes there are the more other road users will expect to see us.
Oh dear....no helmet and red lights...no further comment.
@@jollygoodvelo sit for a moment and have a cup of tea, you'll be fine again soon 😂
I never understand this 'them and us' mentality....im a cyclist AND a motorist!..I ride/drive safely because , well,. Why wouldn't I?...and I respect the rules of the road..
I think us cyclists don’t really understand it because most of us are also motorists.
Since I'm using the Cycliq Fly12_CE and Fly6_CE cameras I make sure to adhere to all traffic laws and ride correctly on the roadway. It slows my average speed but that is ok. If involved in a criminal or civil case against a driver the defense attorney will likely subpoena my entire ride video. If a defense attorney can show a jury I blew through stop signs or red lights or yelled at other drivers before the driver struck me then they can very likely have the case dismissed. Also, my Wahoo automatically uploads to RideWithGPS and that too contains a historical record of whether I stopped at a controlled intersection. Garmin probably uploads to Strava or some other site that would allow a defense attorney to subpoena records for those cyclists too.
Not only are they trying to kill us, it sounds like they are also forcing us to prove that it was our fault.
As a driver, I don't care if cyclists run red lights, so long as they slow and don't do it while pedestrians are crossing. As for interfering with cars, I figure the consequences for poor judgement on that are stronger than any fine or social pressure. They are much more likely to get themselves killed than a motorist. If that isn't enough to make them careful, nothing is anyway. As a driver, when I go over the speed limit (and most drivers do it pretty much whenever it's possible) I don't represent other drivers.
The problem is that narrow-minded motorists will never understand.
As a car driver I view 80% of the car drivers really need to improve their skills and stop complaining.
Although many motorists are pretty patient and courteous.
Aside from growing x ray vision there's not a lot i can do..The amount of emergency stops i must do because people don't know the meaning of red is staggering. One day my car will turn red when one splats on it and it'll be my fault even when it's not , that i can predict. I have an e bike and have zero issues with any other motorists,mostly because i use the cycle paths and routes
Totally agreed with what was said however cyclists are more exposed to severe accidents in case of collision with cars . Protecting yourself is #1, awareness is #2 .There are towns in North America who take cyclists safety seriously protecting them with concrete walls. Another option would be using cycling trails. Thank you.
Start by buying a Garmin Radar so you know when something is coming and how many.
I find myself driving more away from the side and middle of the road when nothing is coming because I know the radar will warn me in time.
Never leave home without it! In the Netherlands that is!
Thanks for the tip, Hans. It’s a little expensive for my taste. I’ve been looking over my shoulder before moving for years so I suppose there has to be something to it.
@@jollygoodvelo Once you have used it for a while you really wonder why you ever rode without it. It changes your feeling regarding safety and everything else in this video completely.
Also if you don't want to be called a road hog, this is how you solve your part of the problem.
I have a mirror, works perfectly, shows a full colour picture too and requires no batteries.
@@djtaylorutube Good point. Tried a mirror too, but it had to look at it all the time to be safe and found it distracting for what was happening in front of me.
You can see the Radar as an extra layer of safety that you can use aside of your mirrors.
To all fellow riders: be visible, be predictable and follow the rules of the road. It is that easy. And perhaps, just perhaps, ride with a dashcam/actioncam if this is legal in your country.
I was cycling along a country road, 60mph was the limit, about 40 cyclists were in front but all in a big pack, no way to overtake which is very frustrating when you have deadlines to meet, pay all the money it cost to run a car then find ignorant self centred people being arses not letting you through, when there was a straight I tooted and over took the lot to the shouts of abuse from them, yes I 100% agree road cyclist and a nightmare for other road users.
Sadly you are one of ‘those people’ I was talking about.
@@jollygoodvelo I have never even made a cyclist swerve but I cannot stand their god like attitude and the same is oozing from you too.
I cycle but a mountain bike on tracks and cross country because it is too dangerous on the road Darwinism springs to mind, even my road cyclist idiot brother in law broke his hip two weeks ago and blamed the van driver, the police said it was the cyclists fault as usual.
It doesn’t matter if you made a cyclist swerve or not you admit that you shouted so that makes you part of the problem. Making sweeping statements about all cyclists like that is just plain stupid. The bottoms line is that the roads aren’t the exclusive domain of motorists or cyclists. We have to share the road and treat each other with respect. By shouting at cyclists you have not honoured your part of that arrangement.
@@jollygoodvelo No mate read what I said, they all shouted at because I over took them!
I apologise, I misread your initial comment. Sounds to me like the cyclists were being rude shouting back but then you were tooting at them. You did the right thing waiting and passing them safely but was the toot really necessary? Possibly if they were deliberately hogging the road.
How to get this viewpoint to non-cyclists?
You can share the link anywhere you like.
@@jollygoodvelo I'm coming from other country (Slovakia still awaits you) - most of my friends do not understand the language.
Ah, subtitles in Slovakian? I don’t know a single word, sorry. I would love to visit Slovakia again and do some cycling. It was beautiful the last time I was there.
I agree entirely.
But... not going through red lights?
That's onerous.
I reckon about 50 % of car drivers go through red lights. Luckily, 50% stop, and all the car drivers behind stop behind the stationary car. But for the first car to see a red light, I reckon 50% go through.
Personally, when I come across a red light, I prefer to stop; check who has green; look for moving traffic; and if there is none, progress at caution with no car driver following me or about to turn across me.
I know it winds up motorists, and I know I am at risk of spurious prosecution, but sometimes, you have to put safety first.
I cycle quite a lot but I'm also a motorist. I have to say the sense of entitlement of some cyclists and their disregard for their own safety is something which constantly astounds me. I have come up with a mathematical formula for groups of cyclists. >= 3 cyclists = >= 3 assholes. Let me give you an example. My wife and I were cycling around a well known Irish tourist town. We were using the cycle lanes of which there are many in this town. Lo and behold we saw a group of four cyclists ignoring the cycle lane and cycling down a very busy road laughing and carrying on while a large tailback of vehicles tried to pass them. I thought it incredibly ignorant and selfish of them.
Is it sad that I haven't got clue which TV series you were referring to? 🤔
I think you must be the only person on the planet that doesn’t. You didn’t miss much.
@@jollygoodvelo Yiks! I'm not joking either.... I live a sheltered life of cycling, eating chocolate and watching RUclips... And often all at the same time 🤪🤪🤪😉 It's not Twilight is it? Or is that old hat now? I've never watched that either. You know what, it doesn't matter 😂😂😂 I didn't even realise Prince William has three children until the other day 🙄 Or is it 2? I'll go now because La Vuelta highlights are on.....
Hi Leonard. Is that your partner at 4:43 minutes?
No, she is just one of my cycling chums.
Shouldn't have to, but I make a point of a *friendly* hand gesture to thank motorists when they do something sensible eg sit behind you for ages waiting for a safe place to overtake. The more we demonstrate responsibility and courtesy, whatever the provocation, the more likely we are to change attitudes. As I said, I know we shouldn't have to but we cycle in the real world.
Absolutely. Most drivers are patient and courteous and they need to be thanked. We shouldn’t forget our manners.
I was almost ran over 2 days ago on my BMX bike , and the driver was speeding across the main road to get to the side street, that l was crossing. I heard the screeching tires. And was almost t- boned. Truthfully we both should have been paying more attention. What l don't like about cyclists while I'm driving is that some of them insist on using the street, when there is a bicycle trail on the side of the road
I’m a cyclist and only a cyclist. I drove for 30 years but my license was revoked in 2007 due to an eyes problem.
Anyway. I think cyclists I have ridden with have a lot to answer to and I can understand why drivers get the hump with them. My main bugbear is not what you have mentioned, it’s the stopping at junctions all across the road, stopping and waiting and not getting off the road and being completely oblivious to other road users. It seems like perfectly normal sane individuals don their cycling gear and turn into complete deadheads. I moan to my fellow cyclists almost every ride but my moans fall on deaf ears.
Cyclists,(I’m one) please be aware of other road users.
Rant over.
tubetardism 20/20
I am a cyclist and in my experience almost every time I ride with a group when stopping at a junction there is no order and invariably block all outlets whether turning left or right. Also just stopping on a road and not getting out of the way.
Now, we have to add in all of these electric scooters, electric skateboards and those 1 wheel electric thingies on the sidewalks and on the roads in the city (US). The motorists are really pissed off now because they encounter these folks not only on the road but on the sidewalks and we cyclists catch the heat.
Must admit that I’ve not seen many electric skateboards here I the UK but I have seen plenty of scooters.
1.58 minutes in please add YES WE DO GO THRU RED LIGHTS. I am a driver and a cyclist. and it gets me when I stop at a red light and a rider cares on strat parts me.
I will move over into the middle of the lane on skinny roads to prevent folks from passing me when there is on coming traffic. Otherwise, the passing motorist get a little too close for comfort. They can wait a few extra seconds until the opposite lane is clear. Then I move over and let them pass. Every once and a while I'll get a "bird" for doing this but that's ok compared to being sideswiped.
I don’t blame you.
No, 99,95% of the cyclists trying to avoid getting killed by motorists with there eyes glued at their mobil phone.
Not sure all motorists are on their phones but there is certainly the ‘sorry, I just didn’t see you’ factor.
Always a touchy subject. For 95+% of the ride we keep as far right as possible(US where we drive on the right side of the road :)). The driver may own that car but they don't own the road. Most vehicles pass with care, some well....
On red lights I always try to obey except when they are controlled by sensor. The sensors don't recognize bicyclists and you could wait for a long time. That being said I stop only go when totally clear.
The biggest complaint I hear is Stop Signs and have to admit not always stopping for those. Having to loose all momentum, un-clip, clip in get going can really kill your ride. I do slow down and can stop if need be, no cyclist wants to be hit and we certainly need to be our own best lookout. Non-cyclists think that's hearsay but oh-well.
I experienced the stop signs when I cycled in the US and I understand the frustration.
Still not a personal exemption. The law is the law!
This makes me realize how spoiled I am as a Dutch cyclist.
The only disadvantage is the wind.
Netherlands has no hills. RIP. xD
I was there many years ago and have to agree. No hills = small fixed gear upwind and larger gear to return.