Ever been out in the bunch and seen a few of the riders do things that makes you think ‘What-da?’ or Been riding in a bunch and thought to yourself – “No wonder we have a bad reputation with motorists?”

CyclingTips have gathered comments from a recent discussion between cyclists and developed a short list of what the majority of Cyclists think  is ‘Cool’ and ‘UnCool’ behaviour when riding in bunches on our roads. It’s a great idea that we support at BunchRideFinder.

For Example:

• UNCOOL – Treating our bunch rides like races.  We’re not in a closed arena.  There is no need for a bunch sprint to go all over the road at the end of a ride.  Yeah it’s fun, but that’s what Sunday crits are for.  Leave your ego at home and show what you’ve got in a real race.

• COOL - Having the balls to tell your mates when they do a bonehead move.  The more the higher level riders speak up, the more others will speak up with you.  88% of you reading are expert to advanced level cyclists.  Use your position of influence to promote change.

The short list has been developed by riders so you know that what the majority think,  not some set of rules dictated by any one person.

After all, It’s all about staying safe on our roads.
Visit CyclingTips to View the full list

More bicycle lanes are not the answer to reducing cycle crashes in South Australia but increasing the numbers of cyclists on the road may actually improve rider safety.

According to research to be presented at UniSA’s Thinking on Two Wheels conference on January 15 at the Hilton Hotel for cyclists, the more the merrier is an apt catchcry.

UniSA researchers Dr Jennifer Bonham and John Petkov (UniSA) presentation Safety in Numbers and the Cycling Context, shows that fewer accidents occur if more people choose pedal-power.

“The volume of cyclists using the roads appears to be the single most important factor in predicting the likelihood that an individual cyclist will be involved in a crash.” Dr Bonham said.

“Our research suggests the numbers of cyclists on the road has a very big impact on crashes – more cyclists means that drivers are more inclined to adjust their driving behaviour.

“The road environment plays some role in cyclists being involved in a crash but there is no straightforward relationship.”

Dr Bonham said while bicycle lanes and other infrastructure were not a “silver bullet” in reducing cycle accidents they did play a valuable role.

“Even if cycle lanes do not actually increase cyclists’ safety, provided they do not increase risk, they are an important cycling investment,” Dr Bonham said.

“Bicycle lanes acknowledge and strengthen the legitimacy of cycling. For these reasons they should be maintained and extended. These types of facilities provide the greatest benefit to inexperienced and less confident cyclists.”

She said governments could also assist in decreasing cycle accidents by strengthening driving licence tests to include education on how to drive safely near cyclists. Councils could also provide cycling skills workshops for people who want to learn how to ride more safely and confidently.

The Bonham and Petkov research findings mirror results from the US, Europe and other states in Australia.

Nationally, Adelaide has the second lowest percentage of the population that cycle at just 1.7 per cent, but Dr Bonham says that events such as the Tour Down Under can play a part in increasing participation. She said that cycle crashes tended to be lower at this time of the year and the event inspired people to cycle and get fit, at the same time increasing driver’s awareness of cyclists.

The Thinking on Two Wheels conference will be held on January 15 and 16. The conference will bring together academics, Government, business and community groups for presentations on all things cycling in areas including health, tourism, urban planning, sport and recreation and sustainable transport.

Source: Uni SA, visit: www.unisa.edu.au