In his letter titled ‘Safe cycling’ (April 20), George Debono refers to my letter ‘Proficient cyclists’ (April 12).

Let us agree that cycling in traffic is safest when the cyclist matches the speed of other road vehicles. We also agree that most cyclists are not comfortable travelling over 25km/h and it is only “seasoned, well-trained cyclists and sports cyclists”, as aptly stated by Debono, who travel at higher speeds. The only logical conclusion is that only proficient cyclists should be using major roads.

This has been my major argument put forward multiple times over the years. Cycling on major roads is an unnecessary hazard and should, at the very least, be subject to a proficiency test.

The continued resistance to the use of basic safety gear, such as helmets, is unconscionable and completely baseless. It is also against the Highway Code.