Journalism and cycling

Letter in the times.

Sir, – As a pedestrian, I am interested in the debate concerning cyclists who do not feel safe while cycling on the road. Following a few recent near-misses with cyclists and skateboarders on local footpaths, I now feel anything but safe while out walking. Maybe a solution would be “pedestrian only ” lanes on footpaths? Or should pedestrians consider wearing crash helmets? – Yours, etc,

Cyclists are not legally allowed on footpaths. One big problem is that what many call "cycle lanes" are not exclusive to cyclists. This came up in some recent thread about wheelchair users. They spoke as though pedestrians were not allowed in "cycle lanes" and someone asked if there was a law preventing them.

So while they are joking about calling them "pedestrian only" it could be good if we did have actual cycling lanes called "cyclists only lanes" which pedestrians were legally not allowed on -and was enforced. I suggested that rather than having images of bikes painted it should be images of people with a line or X through them. I use cycle lanes as much as I can but often end up on the road as they are really jogging, pedestrian, dog on illegally long leash, wandering goon looking at his phone -lanes.

And yes, pedestrians should certainly consider wearing helmets, they would be mad not too, especially while drinking, maybe these reckless daredevils are too concerned about not looking cool. And carry torches at night as per rules of the road advice which many think others should read but are ignorant about themselves. Also wear high viz clothing during the daytime, and reflective clothing at night (as per ROTR)

rubadub wrote: »

I suggested that rather than having images of bikes painted it should be images of people with a line or X through them.

They have those on the cycle paths in the Phoenix Park for all the good it does.

ED E wrote: »

Supposedly Pat Kenny was surprisingly balanced and pro cycling this morning.

About 10 minutes from the end of the first hour, ICYMI

http://www.newstalk.com/listen_back/13240/37421/11th_July_2017_-_The_Pat_Kenny_Show_Part_1/

and continues here.
http://www.newstalk.com/listen_back/13240/37422/11th_July_2017_-_The_Pat_Kenny_Show_Part_2/

AndrewJRenko wrote: »

About 10 minutes from the end of the first hour, ICYMI

http://www.newstalk.com/listen_back/13240/37421/11th_July_2017_-_The_Pat_Kenny_Show_Part_1/

Just before the pause button on desktop.....

I'm pretty sure there was a call out for people to do another one this morning between 8.30 and 9.30am at the cycle lane beside Supervalu in Ranelagh

buffalo wrote: »

Actually, out of interest - do any 'pure' utility cyclists wear padded shorts? (i.e. bought them just for heading to work/shops, and never go on spins around the countryside.)

99% of my cycling is commuting - 30-50 minute trips depending on the route. I do the occasional weekend spin of 1-2 hours, but probably less than one of those a month.

I got Lidl padded shorts some years back, and they work well for me. They are certainly noticably more comfortable than ordinary shorts.

There is a move away from segregation especially in the urban environment

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shared_space

http://www.thejournal.ie/m50-multiple-tolls-speed-limits-3502090-Jul2017/

The report says that:
“In Dublin, there should be additional circular routes to link outer suburbs and relieve the pressure on the M50.
“The use of intelligent transport systems (ITS) coupled with the introduction of variable speed limits and multi-point tolling on the M50 should help mitigate an impending crisis on this route.
“The only viable option is construction of the Eastern Bypass to alleviate traffic queues on the M50 at peak times and to mitigate against the occasional massive delays caused by a fatal accident.”

not public transport, not cycling, the only option is another road!