Cycling double-abreast is against the law and a safety risk
AS A lifelong cyclist, I waited two to three minutes till it was safe to pass your group of 15 to 20 cyclists this morning on my way in to work. As did the two cars ahead of me.
But you guys were in double-file formation, from Camps Bay and The Glen, through the twisty, narrow road through Bantry Bay.
Each car gave a single “blip” on the horn to alert you when we wished to get past the double-file line of riders, and then the two cars ahead of me had to use the opposing lane to get past.
We battled to pass, safely, since your group never went single file.
When we could get past, my wife – politely – suggested the bunch ride single file on the twisty turns coming in to Bantry Bay; remember, there are cars parked on the right, further reducing the real “width” of this serpentine road.
You called us “assholes”, and suggested we chill, since it was Friday! Worth mentioning, I was on my way to work; you were having a recreational ride. I have no more rights than you while I drive to work, but you need to obey the law, single file!
I did everything, and more expected of me, both from the Traffic Act as well as from a simple decency point of view. You, on the other hand, gave some cyclists a bad name by your poor choice of riding, then abusing us verbally when you were clearly in the wrong.
It took everything I had not to stop and confront your behaviour. Try riding single file next time – other motorists may not be as patient.
I will request traffic authorities to police this behaviour – since it occurs near daily, before it escalates to an ugly confrontation between a cyclist and a motorist – we motorists “Stay Wider of the Rider”, you need to ride single file. Please. Chris Grinton Hout Bay