Ron Johnston, Sliema
Need for cyclists' courses
As one who uses his bike daily I am well aware of the potential dangers to cyclists in Malta. These include geographical issues such as narrow roads, limited space, too many vehicles, etc. It is therefore unrealistic to conform to other countries' cycling criteria. This should, however, not be a deterrent to potential cyclists.
I would therefore suggest the following: All young persons and new cyclists should be given the opportunity to attend a course which would outline the potential dangers characteristic to Malta. The courses could be given by professional cyclists who train regularly on Maltese roads. A certificate and possible presentation social could be arranged for those completing the course.
Cycle lanes can still be incorporated in certain safer areas throughout the islands. For example, with some planning, part of the esplanade from St Julians to Valletta could be designated for cyclists only. Obviously, pedestrians would have priority but a cyclists' route would be cordoned off.
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Bill Khan
Aug 19th 2009, 19:53
Changing the attitude of speed loving car drivers is fundamental to any progress of the cyclists in Malta. Without the help at the governmental level to ear mark cycle lanes and strict laws supported by penalties against motorists who violate these laws and endanger the lives of cyclists is the only way forward.
Courses will no doubt teach potential cyclists the do's and don'ts of cycling and is invaluable.
We need to reach out to the motorists that it is not us and them fight on the roads. Because the 'them' killed by our inconsiderate behaviour is a father, a brother, a son to some one.
Cars don't kill its always the one behind the steering wheel often with the help of alcohol.
Jeremy J Camilleri
Aug 19th 2009, 14:42
Vince Cachia....avoiding certain major roads means one can't cycle anywhere....
George Debono
Aug 19th 2009, 13:00
@vincecachia
@ .........CYCLISTS NEED ONE LESSON TO LEARN THAT IS ...STAY AWAY FROM MAJOR ROADS ESPECIALLY TUNNELS!!!..."
Why? -----
Your remark is extremely insensitive - a very nice person was killed just 2 weeks ago and we get a warning that it might happen again if cyclists do not avoid main roads.... there is something very terribly wrong in this kind of attitude.......
This IS the problem in Malta - too many car drivers are bullies and drive as if the road (a public space which belongs to everybody!) belongs to them.
Well, I do stay away from Main roads as much as possible - the simple reason for this is precisely because of the attitude expressed above by Mr Cachia- motorists in Malta are so dangerous and inconsiderate that it is dangerous.
@RON:
With this kind of friendly attitude cyclists do not need enemies...
I am not sure if I agree with you. As this blog shows - It is motorists attitiudes which need changing - not cyclists
vince cachia
Aug 19th 2009, 10:43
CYCLISTS NEED ONE LESSON TO LEARN THAT IS ...STAY AWAY FROM MAJOR ROADS ESPECIALLY TUNNELS!!!