Give cyclists more space

Re Shared lane endangers cyclists, Wheels,

Sept. 29 Single file or not, cyclists and drivers already share most Toronto streets. Pottery Road’s unique signage advises downhill cyclists to take the full lane, and cautions drivers to expect it. When cyclists and cars move at the same speed, sharing makes sense. Uphill cyclists and pedestrians use a separate lane due to similar slow speeds. The design minimizes conflict. Jim Kenzie’s “what if” scenario of a fallen cyclist being hit by the car “on his tail” suggests a driver following too closely. How about reminding drivers to give bicycles (and scooters and motorcycles) more space? As a year-round rider I recognize and appreciate any driver’s concern for my safety, but Kenzie’s rings hollow when he calls cycling advocacy “begging, whining,” and cites bike lanes as a “colossal waste.” Who exactly is complaining about Pottery Road? Not me or anyone I ride with — we love the new infrastructure. Keep it coming! Michael Bain, Toronto I began bicycling when I delivered groceries in the Annex in 1959. Cars and pedestrians were not an issue. I stopped riding the streets when a friend died biking in Riverdale on a quiet Sunday morning in the ’70s. I continue to bike only off-road because it is just too dangerous on the streets. The Pottery Road “single file” lane is probably the stupidest idea yet. Tragic accidents just waiting to happen! I agree with Jim Kenzie that the cyclist always loses to the automobile. I believe that we need competely separate lanes for bikes to prevent carnage from happening. I enjoy riding the Martin Goodman Trail except when pedestrians don’t pay attention on the trail. A cyclist hitting a pedestrian can also be very serious. Phil Sybal, Toronto