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Cycling/Walking around the city

12467…27

Comments

  • #152
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    Yes and yes.

    Good luck! And enjoy...


  • #153
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    Lacha wrote: »
    Does anyone have experience of cycling in Galway city? Would it be do-able to and cycle from Knocknacarra to Renmore?

    Yes it is. Recommend going through town and then Lough Atalia, rather than Quincentenary Bridge.


  • #154
    muppetkiller
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,200 ✭✭✭muppetkiller


    You can go by the train tracks too to save time.


  • #155
    Sniipe
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,932 ✭✭✭Sniipe


    Google maps


  • #156
    Seaneh
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 18,300 ✭✭✭✭Seaneh


    Lacha wrote: »
    Does anyone have experience of cycling in Galway city? Would it be do-able to and cycle from Knocknacarra to Renmore?

    Knocknacarrs to Renmore is easy, you have cycle lanes most of the way, you will be grand.


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  • #157
    Seaneh
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 18,300 ✭✭✭✭Seaneh


    what_traffic wrote: »
    Yes it is. Recommend going through town and then Lough Atalia, rather than Quincentenary Bridge.

    Terrible idea, there are cycle lanes from knocknacarra to Sean Mulvoy road, the can then get on the main road, it's also a lot safer.

    Cycling through the docks slows you down because of traffic and lights and adds over 1km to the journey.


  • #158
    biko
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 81,220 ✭✭✭✭biko


    Merged with recent cycling thread.


  • #159
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    Seaneh wrote: »
    Terrible idea, there are cycle lanes from knocknacarra to Sean Mulvoy road, the can then get on the main road, it's also a lot safer.

    Cycling through the docks slows you down because of traffic and lights and adds over 1km to the journey.

    No its not. Better surface if you stick to on road - and avoid Magic Roundabout. Not as exposed to the wind. Agree it adds 1/2 km to the journey


  • #160
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    what_traffic wrote: »
    No its not. Better surface if you stick to on road - and avoid Magic Roundabout. Not as exposed to the wind. Agree it adds 1/2 km to the journey




    Absolutely.

    When I used to do a c. 12 km commute in the east of the city, I avoided the "cycle lanes" over the Quincentenary Bridge like the plague. Absolute rubbish they were, and still are. Besides, I hate sharing space with all those "salmon" cyclists. ;)

    That idiotic heap of sh it known as the Bodkin Roundabout is also best avoided.

    The Docks route does add unnecessarily to the journey time because of the Council's stupid and counter-productive policy of making cyclists follow every single one-way street as if they were motorists. However, I put up with this crap because it was a better route overall.

    That said, when the Bodkin roundabout is removed (yippee!) this junction may well be better for cyclists, in which case the SQR, Sean Mulvoy, Moneenageisha route may well be continuous and, er, extremely adequate for cyclists.

    The earlier poster who suggested cycling along the railway line neglected to mention one important fact: it's prohibited. Another stupendous decision in the city where the Council takes out full-page ads in the local press to encourage you to cycle. Go figure...


  • #161
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    Iwannahurl wrote: »
    That said, when the Bodkin roundabout is removed (yippee!) this junction may well be better for cyclists, in which case the SQR, Sean Mulvoy, Moneenageisha route may well be continuous and, er, extremely adequate for cyclists.

    Doubt it very much from reviewing the plans at: http://www.galwaycity.ie/GeneralNews/281011_03.pdf

    Look at where the place the cycle lane for cyclists heading inbound into the town on the Headford road for example. Madness
    I avoid it 99% of the time now on the bike and will also in the future.

    Good point re One Way Systems


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  • #162
    galwaycyclist
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 2,912 ✭✭✭galwaycyclist


    what_traffic wrote: »
    Doubt it very much from reviewing the plans at: http://www.galwaycity.ie/GeneralNews/281011_03.pdf

    Look at where the place the cycle lane for cyclists heading inbound into the town on the Headford road for example. Madness
    I avoid it 99% of the time now on the bike and will also in the future.

    Good point re One Way Systems

    The one that curls my toenails is on the Sean Mulvoy Arm where they are putting Westbound cyclists between cars weaving both left and right for no other reason than it gives them a nice long slip lane.


  • #163
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    I think I see what you mean.

    Had a look at that map and struggled to see how everything is meant to work.

    It looks large and complicated. The junction, that is.

    I'd love to invite some Council officials and their consultant engineers to try it out on a bike, especially with kids on board.

    Attachment not found.


  • #164
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    The one that curls my toenails is on the Sean Mulvoy Arm where they are putting Westbound cyclists between cars weaving both left and right for no other reason than it gives them a nice long slip lane.



    Can you point this out on the map?

    Is the slip lane the Left In/left Out junction?

    Will the vehicles weaving right be those exiting left and then heading towards the Terryland direction on the N6?


  • #165
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    The one that curls my toenails is on the Sean Mulvoy Arm where they are putting Westbound cyclists between cars weaving both left and right for no other reason than it gives them a nice long slip lane.

    Ya that one stands out alright.


  • #166
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    The one that curls my toenails is on the Sean Mulvoy Arm where they are putting Westbound cyclists between cars weaving both left and right for no other reason than it gives them a nice long slip lane.

    what_traffic wrote: »
    Ya that one stands out alright.




    Can you post a screenshot of that specific section, preferably from the high-res original?

    I'm having trouble recognising it (high time I got specs tbh).


  • #167
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    bodkin.jpg

    This might help?


  • #168
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    Came across this and thought of this thread

    Maperitive is free to use and looks simple enough once you have the basics.

    Here's a 5 min vid showing it in action for hiking trails, no sound, but you get the idea.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdjXKa5vBeU


    Anyway, thought it might be useful for the cycling guys, enjoy


  • #169
    galwaycyclist
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 2,912 ✭✭✭galwaycyclist


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    Speaking of cycling (and walking) conditions in the city - the elected City Council is due to consider a draft Walking and Cycling Strategy for the city and environs at their meeting on April 16th (Monday). They will be able to amend the document as well. (there is no draft on-line unfortunately)

    Ideally the end document would closely match the philosophy of the National Cycle Policy Framework
    http://www.transport.ie/upload/general/11387-0.pdf

    Particularly chapter 2 and the "Hierarchy of Solutions".

    If there is stuff in that list you want to see done for cycling in Galway now is the time to get onto your local councillor. Bear in mind that the officials appear to be trying to actively evade the provisions of the National Cycle Policy Framework if you want stuff to happen you will have to fight for it. :D

    There is already lobbying going on PM me if you want to co-ordinate efforts.


    The Walking and Cycling Strategy for the city and environs is now finally coming before the city council at their next meeting on Monday 24th September at 4pm.

    There is a lobbying campaign going on at the moment (By Cycling Campaign and An Mheitheal Rothar from Uni) looking to get changes made under the following headings.
    • Zebra Crossings
      Reason: Current draft does not mention them
    • Child Friendly Roads
      Residential roads that are not main roads that are managed for something other than moving cars.
    • Vehicle Restricted Streets instead of Pedestrian Zones
      Reason: Shop Street Pedestrianisation shut down a key cross-city cycle route with no clear alternatives provided. Want it to happen again with Raven Terrace or Middle St?
    • Roads around educational insitutions
      Reason: Current strategy contains a curious lack of measures to improve access to Uni Campus etc
    • Pinch points and road narrowings
      Reason: Current strategy proposes to base traffic calming on measures that make cycling conditions dangerous and uncomfortable, traffic islands, build outs, chicanes etc
    • Speed Management Strategy
      Reason: Creating a walking and cycling friendly envirnoment is about the whole city - not just a token city centre 30kph zone. eg 50kph means 50kph - say on Shantalla Rd or Kingston

    If anyone would like more info or preferably to help talking to councillors please PM me.


  • #170
    Mr_A
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 501 ✭✭✭Mr_A


    Has anyone else noticed that the hook box at the Briarhill junction as you approach from the city side (i.e. with the Clayton on your right) seems useless and possibly dangerous?

    I thought the idea of these was to alleviate the difficulty for cyclists of crossing multiple lanes for right turns by making it possible to stay on the left and make your way to the hook box so that when the lights change again you can go again and complete the turn. I tried to use this and had to quickly readjust as the lights were allowing traffic through the hook box. So I guess you're meant to use one of the straight on lanes to get to it instead.. but that isn't obvious. Seems to me that this is so awkward to use that they should remove it rather than risk luring cyclists into oncoming traffic :eek:

    I know there is a tunnel there, but it's often so covered in glass that I prefer not to use it.


  • #171
    galwaycyclist
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 2,912 ✭✭✭galwaycyclist


    Hi

    I case there is anyone here interested there is a new thread request discussing setting up a forum for non-sports cycling. General cycling does not have its own forum at the moment

    http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2056755344

    Edit: the format is post a reply with "+1" if you agree or "-1" if you disagree


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  • #172
    Galwaymother
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 192 ✭✭Galwaymother


    Hi!
    My daughter who is just 14, and a very occasional cyclist, wants to start cycling to and back from school.

    The route would be from Ballinfoile Park, through the Dyke Road, up on to the Q. bridge, then throught Westside etc. to St.Enda's Secondary in Threadneedle Road. And return...

    I maintain that it is not safe enough, especially when it's raining/ dark/ windy, with the very narrow Dyke Road, and many roundabouts etc, and the deadly junction on Taylor's hill, as well as steep hills etc. She would always have an very heavy bag on her shoulders.
    She's not very road aware I find, though she is athletic so the physical aspect would not be a problem.

    I am not a driver, and my husband, who is, maintains it's fine and she should be allowed. There are cycle lanes on the bridge, and maybe further?

    To be honest, I'd rather let her cycle in Paris than in Galway! I am a cyclist and stopped cycling once I was out in the suburbs...

    What do the Galway cyclists here think?


  • #173
    ciotog
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 670 ✭✭✭ciotog


    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Hi!
    My daughter who is just 14, and a very occasional cyclist, wants to start cycling to and back from school.

    The route would be from Ballinfoile Park, through the Dyke Road, up on to the Q. bridge, then throught Westside etc. to St.Enda's Secondary in Threadneedle Road. And return...

    I maintain that it is not safe enough, especially when it's raining/ dark/ windy, with the very narrow Dyke Road, and many roundabouts etc, and the deadly junction on Taylor's hill, as well as steep hills etc. She would always have an very heavy bag on her shoulders.
    She's not very road aware I find, though she is athletic so the physical aspect would not be a problem.

    I am not a driver, and my husband, who is, maintains it's fine and she should be allowed. There are cycle lanes on the bridge, and maybe further?

    To be honest, I'd rather let her cycle in Paris than in Galway! I am a cyclist and stopped cycling once I was out in the suburbs...

    What do the Galway cyclists here think?
    It's not an insignificant cycle so she has to be admired for wanting to take it on. Your concerns are obviously valid and you're right to worry. When you say she's not road aware this could be a good opportunity to change that - as you're a cyclist yourself, could the two of you spend some preparatory time on bikes together where you pass on some pointers?

    The other issues you mention are ones which can be quite readily addressed:
    - There are excellent and good value lights available that will make a cyclist clearly visible. Combining some mounted on the frame and perhaps attached to a jacket or bag will help.
    - A heavy bag can be shifted to a bike rack, there are some very good options there. I use a pannier bag which alternates between being a bag mounted on the rack and a backpack when I'm wandering around.


  • #174
    Galwaymother
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 192 ✭✭Galwaymother


    Thanks for the advice!
    What about the route itself?
    For example, I read in this thread that many cyclists choose not to take the cycle lanes on the Q. bridge. Are they still as bad?


  • #175
    ciotog
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 670 ✭✭✭ciotog


    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Thanks for the advice!
    What about the route itself?
    For example, I read in this thread that many cyclists choose not to take the cycle lanes on the Q. bridge. Are they still as bad?
    I haven't been on them for awhile (my route used to be Doughiska - Dangan via the bridge) and while they do have problems I wouldn't let them get in the way. For me, they were:
    - Coming down Sean Mulvoy road and around the roundabout I found getting onto the cycle lane could be challenging as you have to get up off the road. From the route you outline I don't think that's going to be an issue.
    - Broken glass on the paths. You do need to pay attention to the surface but not enough to stop me using them.

    The changes to the junction with the Newcastle Road made things much easier at that end. You do need to be careful of left turning traffic as many drivers forget they have a [cycle] lane on their left to consider. Hopefully someone who has cycled them more recently can comment (been 6-7 months for me).


  • #176
    McTigs
    Registered Users Posts: 1,032 ✭✭✭McTigs


    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Hi!
    My daughter who is just 14, and a very occasional cyclist, wants to start cycling to and back from school.

    The route would be from Ballinfoile Park, through the Dyke Road, up on to the Q. bridge, then throught Westside etc. to St.Enda's Secondary in Threadneedle Road. And return...

    I maintain that it is not safe enough, especially when it's raining/ dark/ windy, with the very narrow Dyke Road, and many roundabouts etc, and the deadly junction on Taylor's hill, as well as steep hills etc. She would always have an very heavy bag on her shoulders.
    She's not very road aware I find, though she is athletic so the physical aspect would not be a problem.

    I am not a driver, and my husband, who is, maintains it's fine and she should be allowed. There are cycle lanes on the bridge, and maybe further?

    To be honest, I'd rather let her cycle in Paris than in Galway! I am a cyclist and stopped cycling once I was out in the suburbs...

    What do the Galway cyclists here think?
    I think you ought to let her.

    Maybe cycle the route with her a few times and see for yourself where any potential hazards may be. You say she's not very road aware? how so? maybe you're not giving her enough credit.

    I'd recomend a carrier for her bag, long term lugging a bag and cycling could be traumatic on her back, and good lights are essential. But other than that fair play to her for wanting to do it, way too many teenagers are content to be dropped to the door.

    My neice who is also 14 sometimes cycles in to the jes from baile na gCoiste. I couldn't believe it when she told me only about 1 in 10 cycle to school. In my day (20-25 yrs ago) it was at least half. Nearly every wall of the school building had bikes locked against it.

    Cycling in the city is not dangerous as people (most who don't cycle at all) make out. I cycle salthill to the tuam road everyday for the last ten years and i've never had an accident and there are no cycle lanes on the route. I cycled from barna to the jes everyday when i was in school and never had an accident then either.


  • #177
    Galwaymother
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 192 ✭✭Galwaymother


    Oh I know it's great that she wants to cycle, she always took the bus to school, after primary school, to which she was driven. we weren't going to let her become one of these car-bound kids!

    That's mainly why I say she is not very road-aware, she doesn't walk nor cycle much anywhere, always takes buses etc. Also she's a bit of a dreamer.

    It's mainly the route I'm worried about, plus I know that roads can get very slippy etc in the rain, and visibility is bad.

    I would not cycle this route myself twice everyday in winter, I feel she would be even less able to cope with the 'aggression' of some car drivers, the roughness ( and unpredictability!) of the weather, having to wear all weather-gear, arriving sweaty and flustered into school, etc.
    Also, what about car fumes? Is that an aspect to take into consideration, as I see it mentioned earlier in the thread!

    Well done on cycling that Barna road as a kid!
    I tried to go on a cycle from Salthill along the coast a few years ago and was run off the road by speeding cars! I felt so vulnerable with such narrowness and the terrible surface on the left side of the road...
    Even walkers are taking their lives into their own hands there I feel!

    P.S.: When I say she doesn't walk much, I mean on suburbian roads! She does walk a lot in town or in the country! And we encourage her to cycle around the estate...


  • #178
    McTigs
    Registered Users Posts: 1,032 ✭✭✭McTigs


    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Oh I know it's great that she wants to cycle, she always took the bus to school, after primary school, to which she was driven. we weren't going to let her become one of these car-bound kids!

    That's mainly why I say she is not very road-aware, she doesn't walk nor cycle much anywhere, always takes buses etc. Also she's a bit of a dreamer.

    It's mainly the route I'm worried about, plus I know that roads can get very slippy etc in the rain, and visibility is bad.

    I would not cycle this route myself twice everyday in winter, I feel she would be even less able to cope with the 'aggression' of some car drivers, the roughness ( and unpredictability!) of the weather, having to wear all weather-gear, arriving sweaty and flustered into school, etc.
    Also, what about car fumes? Is that an aspect to take into consideration, as I see it mentioned earlier in the thread!

    Well done on cycling that Barna road as a kid!
    I tried to go on a cycle from Salthill along the coast a few years ago and was run off the road by speeding cars! I felt so vulnerable with such narrowness and the terrible surface on the left side of the road...
    Even walkers are taking their lives into their own hands there I feel!

    P.S.: When I say she doesn't walk much, I mean on suburbian roads! She does walk a lot in town or in the country! And we encourage her to cycle around the estate...
    Well in spite of what some cyclists may say, i find 99% of motorists to be very considerate. I am rarely denied my right of way, regularly waved out at a junction and most give plenty of space when over taking. Of course there is the 1% of dickheads that will rattle your nerves and leave you fuming. I honestly believe the principal danger to cyclists is their own stupidity, breaking lights, not obeying the rules of the road etc. If she behaves herself well and doesn't take chances she will be fine.

    I would think the route she is planning is relatively safe. The distance is not huge if you cycle at a tame pace. It's no wetter in winter than summer in my experience. So good lights, bag carrier, decent waterproofs and under no circumstances allow her to wear headphones. She'll very soon gain that awareness you say she is lacking. She'll arrive to school fresher, arrive home hungrier and sleep sounder.


  • #179
    spurscormac
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,523 ✭✭✭spurscormac


    As a motorist who is constantly using the Newcastle junction, I would advise her to be very careful of left turning traffic in either direction on the dual carriageway.
    Especially if the lights have just turned green or the traffic is already moving - if that's the case, she could well be travelling faster than the turning cars, and surprise them by arriving alongside to go straight when they are turning. If she gets to the junction on a read light, she should be fine, as she'll get in front of the cars - she also might have the option to dismount and walk across while there's a pedestrian green light.

    I try to be aware of cyclists at all times, and especially at those junctions where you're crossing over the cycle lane, but you never know when even a considerate driver might be inadvertently get distracted and miss the wing mirror check.


  • #180
    Seaneh
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 18,300 ✭✭✭✭Seaneh


    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Thanks for the advice!
    What about the route itself?
    For example, I read in this thread that many cyclists choose not to take the cycle lanes on the Q. bridge. Are they still as bad?

    The path on the bridge is mostly fine, few rough patches of loose crap but nothing to worry about unless she's on a bike with 23c tyres and going 50kmph. If she's on a hybrid or mountain bike she'd be grand.


    Also, there is a cycle path form the bridge all the way to fort lorenzo.


    If she stays on it she will be fine.

    The only "problems" would be the roundabout behind the hopsital, but if she stays on the cycle path she should be dismounting to cross it anyway, negating any issues. The other being the junction at the top of taylors hill but that's easily handled too.


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  • #181
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    Galwaycyclist needs a hand lobbying the corpo today don't forget. See their posts last week in this thread.


  • #182
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    The Walking and Cycling Strategy for the city and environs is now finally coming before the city council at their next meeting on Monday 24th September at 4pm.

    There is a lobbying campaign going on at the moment (By Cycling Campaign and An Mheitheal Rothar from Uni) looking to get changes made under the following headings.
    • Zebra Crossings
      Reason: Current draft does not mention them
    • Child Friendly Roads
      Residential roads that are not main roads that are managed for something other than moving cars.
    • Vehicle Restricted Streets instead of Pedestrian Zones
      Reason: Shop Street Pedestrianisation shut down a key cross-city cycle route with no clear alternatives provided. Want it to happen again with Raven Terrace or Middle St?
    • Roads around educational insitutions
      Reason: Current strategy contains a curious lack of measures to improve access to Uni Campus etc
    • Pinch points and road narrowings
      Reason: Current strategy proposes to base traffic calming on measures that make cycling conditions dangerous and uncomfortable, traffic islands, build outs, chicanes etc
    • Speed Management Strategy
      Reason: Creating a walking and cycling friendly envirnoment is about the whole city - not just a token city centre 30kph zone. eg 50kph means 50kph - say on Shantalla Rd or Kingston
    If anyone would like more info or preferably to help talking to councillors please PM me.

    Probably to late to PM - but if anybody here can show up on Bike's to City Hall in the next hour "An Mheitheal Rothar" from NUIG are organising a "Critical Mass" style cycle to City Hall before the meeting starts at 16h00.


  • #183
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    On yeer bikes lads the rain should hold off till 5. Down to College Road with ye.


  • #184
    snubbleste
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 31,117 ✭✭✭✭snubbleste


    But but I've just put my best lycra suit in the wash :(


  • #185
    what_traffic
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,002 ✭✭✭what_traffic


    snubbleste wrote: »
    But but I've just put my best lycra suit in the wash :(

    Dont worry - you will fit in with the rest of those present with out it. 99% sure it will be Lyrca Free. :)


  • #186
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    If the meeting was at 10am Sunday in Barna twould be wall to wall Lycra. Not today. :)


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  • #187
    yer man!
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,653 ✭✭✭yer man!


    Is this a cycle lane on the dyke road or what is it? it connects to the footpath near the bridge and goes to the footpath near the black box. I've always thought it was a dyke but it seems to be very flat and cyclable.

    https://maps.google.ie/maps?q=galway&ll=53.28195,-9.056362&spn=0.001216,0.002411&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&hnear=Galway,+County+Galway&gl=ie&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=53.28195,-9.056362&panoid=NCWZL0qcca5J7cXyAlo1mQ&cbp=12,151.39,,0,2.6


  • #188
    snubbleste
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 31,117 ✭✭✭✭snubbleste


    It's a footpath.


  • #189
    at1withmyself
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,545 ✭✭✭at1withmyself


    I cycle across the city every day and use most of this route, on the route I would suggest going under the Q bridge and coming up the steps (town side) which will leave her on the correct side of the cycle lane. From there its pretty much a cycle lane all the way and as pointed the roundabout in Westside being the only real obsticle so take care there. As a kid I went to the same school and plenty of teens cycling up & down both sides of the hill without issue.

    If she can get a locker and leave a Towel there for when she arrives along with some deo can be enough to dry off instead of being flustered and sweaty for the day although a shower if available is better.

    As for the weather I don't get wet that often so it doesn't rain that much but a good breathable jacket can be enough for light showers / rain with a decent cap under the helmet.

    If she is a bit of a 'dreamer' I'd strongly advice against using an MP3 player (can't practice what I preach here though!).

    I find the drivers in most very accomodating so just encourage her to follow the lights and to leave with enough time so she's not rushing and she'll be fine.

    Finally ensure the bike is in good working order, chain oiled, tyres pumped to correct pressure and brakes and gears working. Nothing worse then seeing kids with huge backpacks pushing a bike with almost flat tyres in pain!
    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Oh I know it's great that she wants to cycle, she always took the bus to school, after primary school, to which she was driven. we weren't going to let her become one of these car-bound kids!

    That's mainly why I say she is not very road-aware, she doesn't walk nor cycle much anywhere, always takes buses etc. Also she's a bit of a dreamer.

    It's mainly the route I'm worried about, plus I know that roads can get very slippy etc in the rain, and visibility is bad.

    I would not cycle this route myself twice everyday in winter, I feel she would be even less able to cope with the 'aggression' of some car drivers, the roughness ( and unpredictability!) of the weather, having to wear all weather-gear, arriving sweaty and flustered into school, etc.
    Also, what about car fumes? Is that an aspect to take into consideration, as I see it mentioned earlier in the thread!

    Well done on cycling that Barna road as a kid!
    I tried to go on a cycle from Salthill along the coast a few years ago and was run off the road by speeding cars! I felt so vulnerable with such narrowness and the terrible surface on the left side of the road...
    Even walkers are taking their lives into their own hands there I feel!

    P.S.: When I say she doesn't walk much, I mean on suburbian roads! She does walk a lot in town or in the country! And we encourage her to cycle around the estate...


  • #190
    galwaycyclist
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 2,912 ✭✭✭galwaycyclist


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    The Walking and Cycling Strategy for the city and environs is now finally coming before the city council at their next meeting on Monday 24th September at 4pm.

    There is a lobbying campaign going on at the moment (By Cycling Campaign and An Mheitheal Rothar from Uni) looking to get changes made under the following headings.
    • Zebra Crossings
      Reason: Current draft does not mention them
    • Child Friendly Roads
      Residential roads that are not main roads that are managed for something other than moving cars.
    • Vehicle Restricted Streets instead of Pedestrian Zones
      Reason: Shop Street Pedestrianisation shut down a key cross-city cycle route with no clear alternatives provided. Want it to happen again with Raven Terrace or Middle St?
    • Roads around educational insitutions
      Reason: Current strategy contains a curious lack of measures to improve access to Uni Campus etc
    • Pinch points and road narrowings
      Reason: Current strategy proposes to base traffic calming on measures that make cycling conditions dangerous and uncomfortable, traffic islands, build outs, chicanes etc
    • Speed Management Strategy
      Reason: Creating a walking and cycling friendly envirnoment is about the whole city - not just a token city centre 30kph zone. eg 50kph means 50kph - say on Shantalla Rd or Kingston

    If anyone would like more info or preferably to help talking to councillors please PM me.

    Ok there was a robust discussion from 4pm to 7pm. But the strategy did not get adopted. The officials are still trying to fight a rearguard action to stop the document being amended. The strategy is to be brought back before the next meeting of the council to discuss the above motions.

    I won't give a blow by blow account. There appears to be broad cross party support for the amendments (which is why they are being brought). They pretty much all involve issues that have been repeatedly raised with, and rejected by, the city officials/gtu either at Transport Committee level or in separate meetings.

    Notwithstanding this Joe Tansey sought to represent the matters raised as new issues requiring more time for consideration. I reckon the deferal mainly happened because some councillors were late coming back from their break so Mayor Terry Flaherty

    There was also an attempt by the officials to have a previous amendement removed. This was inserted by the Transport SPC acknowledging the status of cyclists as drivers Irish traffic law. They appear to be working in co-operation with a particular labour councillor on this one. The same councillor has failed to reply to repeated requests for meetings and failed to show up for one meeting that was arranged to discuss the strategy.


  • #191
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    The same officials will probably refuse to discuss amendments next time ( and every other time) and claim that they will lose €1.8m or €99.9m in funding if the entire package is not passed immediately by the councillors.

    Get the mayor to demand a clear position paper on every proposed amendment from the officials for distribution to each councillor in good time and not have some made up ambush excuses on the night.

    Then deal with all the non controversial ones from the councillors point of view 'on the nod' in one package before the discussion starts.

    If you start on a controversial one you rapidly run out of time.


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  • #192
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    Galwaymother wrote: »
    Hi!
    My daughter who is just 14, and a very occasional cyclist, wants to start cycling to and back from school.

    The route would be from Ballinfoile Park, through the Dyke Road, up on to the Q. bridge, then throught Westside etc. to St.Enda's Secondary in Threadneedle Road. And return...

    I maintain that it is not safe enough, especially when it's raining/ dark/ windy, with the very narrow Dyke Road, and many roundabouts etc, and the deadly junction on Taylor's hill, as well as steep hills etc. She would always have an very heavy bag on her shoulders.
    She's not very road aware I find, though she is athletic so the physical aspect would not be a problem.

    I am not a driver, and my husband, who is, maintains it's fine and she should be allowed. There are cycle lanes on the bridge, and maybe further?

    To be honest, I'd rather let her cycle in Paris than in Galway! I am a cyclist and stopped cycling once I was out in the suburbs...

    What do the Galway cyclists here think?


    Fair play to you both.

    Just under 6km, according to Google Maps, so very cyclable distance-wise.

    Personally I hate cycling the Q Bridge, the Bodkin Roundabout is evil, and the cycle paths from the Kirwan to Bodkin are a joke.

    However, having looked at the map, it does look like a direct route, particularly if the SQR is the better option for the last leg.

    however, it is often the case that cyclists are willing to take somewhat longer routes if they are quieter. So would you consider something like this route?

    It's not that much longer, and as far as I can see there is only one roundabout to be negotiated. In my experience that roundabout (Deane) is typically clogged with cars at rush hour, which has the disadvantage of cyclists being a bit squeezed on it but the advantage that the cars (most of them in the wrong lane, not indicating and stopping in the yellow box, btw) are going at a snail's pace.

    My pet peeve at that specific location is that there are two lanes crammed in to maximise space for cars, from there up to the junction at the top of Threadneedle Road.*** It makes me cringe every time I see schoolchildren trying to squeeze past in the 30cm motorists leave for them between the cars and the kerb. I always overtake on the right.

    I'm not a cycling expert, though I have been cycling since I was in primary school, so I would make no claims regarding what is the best choice of route. However, I would suggest that you try it out together over a couple of weekends, to get a feel for both legs of the journey and identify any potential barriers.

    Any questions, send me a PM. Good luck.



    ***Sorry, doesn't look as if that link is working properly. If you zoom in to the Taylor's Hill/Threadneedle Road junction on StreetView, and look back towards the Bishop O'Donnell Road, you will see the way cars are crammed into narrow lanes, with no room left for cyclists at peak times.


  • #193
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    Sponge Bob wrote: »
    The same officials will probably refuse to discuss amendments next time ( and every other time) and claim that they will lose €1.8m or €99.9m in funding if the entire package is not passed immediately by the councillors.
    Aw jebus...why did you not admit they Already tried that one on. Typical. :D
    http://www.galwaynews.ie/27939-amendments-cycle-plan-‘could-put-funds-risk’


  • #194
    ciotog
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 670 ✭✭✭ciotog


    Sponge Bob wrote: »
    Aw jebus...why did you not admit they Already tried that one on. Typical. :D
    http://www.galwaynews.ie/27939-amendments-cycle-plan-%E2%80%98could-put-funds-risk%E2%80%99
    They really don't like the amendment which relates to the classification of a cycle, under Irish road traffic legislation, as a vehicle. It requires that they recognise it is illegal to cycle on a footway and that the default solution is to put cyclists on the same surface as the roadway.


  • #195
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    It is illegal to cycle on a footway.

    However there are places where one can safely do so without knocking over grannies and kids...and places where this is dangerous. Policing should be concentrated in the latter type of area.

    Marys Road is an good example of where it is dangerous and perhaps more ramps from path <> road might persuade the cyclists to obey the law where a conflict arises with enforcement concentrated on those who ignore the opportunity.

    Should someone be done for cycling UP shop st @ 8am. No.


  • #196
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    Sponge Bob wrote: »
    It is illegal to cycle on a footway.

    However there are places where one can safely do so without knocking over grannies and kids...and places where this is dangerous. Policing should be concentrated in the latter type of area.



    Why would one do so, especially if it is illegal?


  • #197
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    Iwannahurl wrote: »
    Why would one do so, especially if it is illegal?

    Because one does not have a light on the bike and is dressed in dark clothing which is unsuitable for road cycling at night in winter. So that breed inflicts themselves on pedestrians instead.

    Have you never seen an unlit and unsafe cyclist in Galway Hurl ???


  • #198
    Iwannahurl
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,156 ✭✭✭Iwannahurl


    Correct me if I'm getting the wrong impression, but are you saying that not having lights on ones bike (totally illegal, as well as being stupid and irresponsible, IMO) is a valid reason for cycling on footpaths?

    We can leave their sartorial preferences out of this, since there are no (official) fashion police out on patrol as yet.

    You also say that "policing should be concentrated in the latter type of area", ie stretches of footpath where "grannies and kids" might get knocked over by footpath cyclists.

    Correct me again if I am making an incorrect inference, but are you suggesting that, in a context where illegally unlit cyclists are illegally cycling on footpaths, that "policing should be concentrated" only in areas where grannies and kids might get knocked over?


  • #199
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    Iwannahurl wrote: »
    Correct me if I'm getting the wrong impression, Correct me again if I am making an incorrect inference, "policing should be concentrated" only in areas where grannies and kids might get knocked over?

    Consider yourself corrected twice.


  • #200
    galwaycyclist
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 2,912 ✭✭✭galwaycyclist


    I should point out that other amendments proposed by the Cycling Campaign accept and endorse a role for spaces where cyclists share with pedestrians and advocate a "code of conduct" for cyclists in such situations.

    The city officials are opposed to this "code of conduct" suggestion as they say it is not their job to educate people on how to use the roads. They are of the view that this is the job of the RSA and that the relevant document is the Rules of the Road.


  • #201
    Sponge Bob
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 25,234 ✭✭✭✭Sponge Bob


    galwaycyclist wrote: »
    I should point out that other amendments proposed by the Cycling Campaign accept and endorse a role for spaces where cyclists share with pedestrians and advocate a "code of conduct" for cyclists in such situations..

    Eminently sensible idea.

    They should also extend the vehicle impounding regime ...the one described recently by a local FG senator, to egregious breaches of such a code simply by giving the code By Law status.


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