Bicycle bells could bring harmony to our lanes
SIR – In the past month I have been knocked to the ground by cyclists in the country lane near where I live.
In the first instance I was looking from the side of the lane at a field of barley when a chap on a racing bike with his head down rode into me. The second time, I was crossing the lane, unaware of a bike behind me. There was no warning on either occasion.
Cyclists spend huge amounts on their bikes but do not seem to be able to afford bells. Is it not the law to have a warning device on a bike – and, if so, why are bikes made without bells?
Peter Bartlett Porthcawl, Glamorgan
SIR – When I ride by horse, I have to share Norfolk’s narrow country roads with ill-mannered, Lycra-clad cyclists. Rarely am I warned of their approach from behind, and very few slow down – putting all three of us in danger. The tinkle of a bell is all that is required.
I have long since given up on a cheery greeting.
Victor J Llewellyn Hingham, Norfolk
SIR – Wherever new roads have been constructed in North Tyneside, generous cycle paths have appeared alongside footpaths – the aim, presumably, being the safety of cyclists, pedestrians and motor traffic.
However, they do not seem to suit the Lycra-clad, aerodynamically helmeted, crouched-double road racers who continue to hurtle along the roads, often well into the centre due to the presence of roadside drains.
It is annoying, but is possibly just as well for the ordinary, peaceable cyclists going about their business on the cycle paths.
Frances Atkinson Forest Hall, Northumberland
SIR – Major John Carter (Letters, July 22) is wrong in his claim that our road infrastructure was developed when cycling was a minority activity. In 1886, cyclists in Britain pushed for an increase in funding for road surfacing, 10 years before the introduction of motor vehicles to the country.
As a cyclist and a motorist, I see inconsiderate cycling and driving daily. But while the former may delay my journey to work, the latter may very well kill me.
Jack McCreery Aberdeen