Vorpal wrote:reohn2 wrote:You have the luxury in Norway of being able to take your bike on the bus which is great,however you've lived in the UK......
And in the UK, I took my bike on the train, which costs me money in Norway
But yes, it does require decent alternatives. On the other hand, the weather is better in the UK, and if traffic is bad enough cycling will be quicker than any other mode.
I agree it can be quicker in heavily congested traffic,but if cyclists fear the traffic they're trying get out of/overtake/beat then for the vast majority cycling doesn't even get a second thought,motors are big bikes are small and their riders are unprotected,that's how they're perceived by the wo/man on the street.
In congested areas such as city and town centres,private vehicles should be stopped from entering,if only for pollution levels alone,and the space given over to green public transport,cycling and other alternative transport means,folding bikes,electric scooters and monowheels,etc.Handy vehicles that can easily fit into a small space,under a desk or in a car boot.
Deliveries in such conurbations should be carried out either by small green LGV's and or outside of heavy footfall times say between 7pm and 7am,with the least disruption to people.
I'm convinced transport hubs outside of major conurbations just off arterial routes,with public transport or dedicated alternative transport 'roads' into centres,are the only way to make cities and large towns better for human beings to go about their daily lives.
To make cycling and other vulnerable transport alternatives acceptable to the general public they have to be separated from motor traffic and given priority over it,I'm convinced that asking people to cycle alongside motor traffic on the same congested roads is a non starter,and that motor use needs curbing in these situations as they're ruining city life as their numbers increase.
I'm also convinced rigidly enforced 20mph speed limits should be firmly in place for any vehicles that has exceptions to enter such areas
The political will is another matter but,if the public are consulted properly I believe they'd be willing to accept such curbs on motors,the thrust would have to on greatly reducing pollution and convenience for people within the densely populated areas.
It's radical but it needs to be to make city/large town living better for all concerned,problem is people don't like change,and politicians fear it even more.