NEWS

Cycling advocates are calling for a ceasefire in the latest skirmish between some drivers and cyclists.

A public dispute has been sparked by news of an Auckland cyclist who uses video cameras and lasers to track aggressive drivers.

TVNZ story here.

Cycling is a great way to get around, and an activity enjoyed by more than a million New Zealanders says Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) spokesperson, Patrick Morgan.

Mr Morgan says, "While riding two abreast is legal, cyclists need to show courtesy to other road users. This means riding in single file on busy roads."

"Our advice for drivers is to show similar courtesy: wait until it is safe to pass, and give cyclists plenty of room."

"We all win when cyclists and motorists share the road with care."

"Every person on a bike means there are fewer cars on the road. More bikes means less congestion."

CAN is delighted to see the latest "Code for Cyclists" produced by New Zealand Transport Agency. "The Code legitimises cyclists as valid road users at a time when there has been considerable mud-slinging between parties."

"An increase in everyday cycling instead of driving for short trips, reduces accidents, increases health and wellbeing, and reduces roading and health costs."

"If only three people in every 100 took up cycling instead of driving, New Zealand would save more than 1 billion dollars per year."

ENDS

1. CAN's safety advice for cyclists and drivers: http://can.org.nz/safety

2. CAN guide for news media: http://can.org.nz/media/2008/can-media-guide-to-cycling-in-new-zealand

3. NZ Road Code advice: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/about-driving/passing.html

Contact:

Patrick Morgan
CAN - Cycling Advocates Network
Tel 04-385-4967, mobile 027-563-4733,
www.can.org.nz
More people on bikes, more often

Release Date: 
Wednesday, 18 August, 2010
August 18, 2010 Anonymous (not verified)

Comments

Was interviewed by TVNZ's Garth Bray on passing distances.

I stuck to our messages:
1. no war out there, thousands of cyclists and drivers share the road every day
2. advice for cyclists and drivers is the same: follow the rules and show common courtesy

This means using indicators and eye contact, not running red lights, passing with care and travelling at a safe speed.

We aren't calling for 1.5 metres gap for all situations. It's appropriate for the open road but not practical around town.

So follow the rules and show courtesy.