Cycling on pavements and in parks
Watch this postWhy don’t the powers that be ensure that cyclists are given health and safety awareness training as some seem to think they can bomb around at speed where pedestrians are using pavements and toe paths that were never meant for cyclists. Sensory impairment is an invisible disability and cyclists seem to assume if you are able to walk you’re fully aware of what’s going on around you. I don’t have eyes in the back of my head and don’t see why I should have to give way to speeding cyclists half my age when I’m walking in pedestrian areas. Why don’t they have bells to warn us and number plates on their bikes? Cars and vans are now taking over pavements? What next? Electric bikes are a new source of danger. I wonder who will accept liability when one of us gets knocked over and potentially lose our mobility - No objection to cyclists or other mode of transport, but if we have to share a space then priority must be given to pedestrians when using pedestrianised areas.
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For a 71 year old cyclist in decent shape, what areas are the best to consider ?
I cycle slowly even in e mode, and get startled by normal cycles whizzing past and nearly taking me out. As a mostly deaf rider it’s harder and most youngsters aren’t so aware that we can’t hear them coming from behind.
Please don't think us all inconsiderate. I am always giving way to pedesrtians, and always thank them if they do the same for me. I am saddened by the treatment you all seem to have had.
But if these safe places to ride were taken away, then I would lose my hobby, and source of excersise, and the little old dogs their bit of fresh air. No, they cant walk, having various health problems before you assume I am not doing right by them.
Many many people stop me for a chat, remarking how the dogs enjoy the ride. As most of my friends have now passed on, it is a wonderful way to have a little chat with passers by.
Please don't think us all the same, we are not.
If you ever go to Rother valley, look out for me, and the dogs. Say hello, or wave. Don't be angry with me just because I am a cyclist.
I've had varying reactions, one of my first encounters was with a similarly age couple of walkers, that I approached from behind. After first using my bell I got no response, I called out "excuse me" and the gent turned around in such surprise I thought he was going to have a heart attack. I passed with an apology. I think I just caught him by surprise but he did give me a little wave. Other reactions have been as though I had no right to invade their pathway, which is clearly marked for cycles as well.
People getting out for exercise is great sharing public space is surely possible without causing problems for each other.
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I walk quite a lot and the amount of times i have nearly been 'taken out' by these selfish individuals goes in to double figures. It's the local authorities who are at
fault for allowing it. What makes my mind boggle is even where there are proper
cycle lanes some cyclists still ride on the FOOT path so as to avoid traffic. Having
said all that the majority are careful, but a GOOD LOUD bell should be mandatory.