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I was recently asked by a Melbourne journalist from
The Age if I endorsed the registration of bicycles.
My response was "Of course, if it stops cyclists copping abuse from
motorists, then I'm all for it."
I must admit my answer was a little tongue-in-cheek at the time, but I
stand behind the comment.
Suffice to say, there's been some heavy criticism when the article was
published.
I can't understand why!
I am a cyclist who regularly uses the roads around Sydney.
Whether I'm travelling to and from work or joining members of the
Randwick Botany club for a weekend group ride, I'm out there pushing the
pedals clocking around 220km, on average, a week.
In an age when bikes sales outnumber motor vehicles every year and we
are constantly reminded to use "pedal power" whenever possible, I'm
quite perplexed by the attitude of motorists who give us "two-wheeled
warriors dressed in lycra" constant grief.
From my experience, Sydney seems to be the worst of all the capital
cities.
Regardless of the time of day, there seems to be very little respect for
cyclists from drivers.
This being the case I wonder if motorists' attitudes would change if
bike riders were asked to pay an annual registration fee?
I'd like to think it would.
Motorists are encouraged to share the roads with cyclists, so why
shouldn't they share the cost of using them?
I've noticed an "us and them" attitude which I feel must stop.
I'm also a motorist who averages around 25,000km a year and when I'm
behind the wheel of my car, it goes without saying I respect all
cyclists (as I assume all of you reading this column also do.)
I feel safe when I travel in my car, but that is definitely not the case
when riding solo on two wheels.
Drivers and cyclists should work together to make the roads a better and
enjoyable place to be, and if it means paying a small price every year,
then I'm all for it.
However, I'm sure there are many who disagree with this argument.
***
A reminder to all members to tune into SBS for a special treat on Sunday
April 13th from 10.10pm for the historic LIVE coverage of the Paris-Roubaix
Classic.
Tell your friends, your husband, your wife, children, next door
neighbours, lovers and anyone else who is interested in world cycling
because this is an event that should not be missed!
Michael Tomalaris
Journalist/Presenter/Producer
+61 2 9430-3043
+61 (0)414 586052
Official Live Broadcaster of:
2007/2008 UEFA Champions League
2007 Tour de France
2007 IAAF World Championships
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