"A"" Roads for cyclists

[gar]

Talking about "A" roads generally and whether cyclists should use them or not is difficult.
The "B" roads in the South East are just as busy as the "A"s in Sctoland or Cumbria for example.

The measure for "busyness" has really got to be
vehicles per minute, and it is not beyond the powers of any cyclists to weight that up before using a road for any purpose. Most people can count to 60, and do it half a dozen times at
different places and times.

My own measure of "Busy" is 5 vehicles per minute but then I am npot as young as I was, and not as adept at getting out of the way as somebody of 20 might be. I don't use helmet and won't, and that is another factor in ONLY using a main road (20/min) when I have to, and even then not becoming intercalated with the traffic; pedalling on the grass verge if there is one.

It would be interesting to know what per minute
ratios other members use if any for such decisions.

[mike6]

"Busyness" is only one factor, other considerations are width of road, which can vary greatly for roads of same classification, and average speed of motor traffic.

[gar]

Talking about "width" of road as well is rather like the local M way bypass which was built with a cycle track on the side of the road, so you can
cycle alongside cars doing 90mph. Car accidents are high along there, but I have not yet heard of
a cyclists accident on it probably becoz it is only used by cyclists who are sucked in to the vortex without thought, although there are signs directing cyclists to it. Unbelieveable.
A cycling experience never to be forgotten, if you have NOT heard of Sustrans.

[Tony]

I am a little puzzled here, "gar". Are you saying cyclists should not be allowed to use certain roads, or that you prefer not to yourself?
I will continue to use all roads except motorways, as is my right, and without a helmet, as is my informed choice.

[gar]

cyclists should not be allowed to use certain roads

Of course that would be entirely impractical but impossible to adminster, and probably an infringement of your rights as well.....but YES!

[Tony]

You are a troll and I claim my five pounds. Out of curiosity, do you ride a bike?

[gar]

Hi Gareth,

Well this road is a bit fast and narrowish, but its not too bad. I guess I wouldn't use it for choice but we still use it on the "Dorset Coast" 200km first leg. Don't let the motorists drive us off the roads.


Keith Matthews
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Hon Life Vice President - Wessex CTC

[gar]

Tony
go to rides and events on the other thread and look at handcranked photo.

gar

Wish I knew what a Troll is and y I o £5

[Tony]

Apologies for that, if you're handcranking, but there are any number if reasons why cyclists must not be forced off roads. Where do you draw the line? My acceptable fast commute road may be your death zone, but the more we leave the roads the less dricers expect to see us and the more dangerous in reality it will become. Helmets are a well-argued topic with much evidence AGAINST their use, which is why the CTC are against compulsion.
As for "trolls", personae on internet fora or message boards who are there to stir things, in various ways. Look it up online in Wikipedia.
Once again, sorry for doubting your credentials, but your slant is very trollish.
As for me, I have never owned a car,

[gar]

TJ is the troll. Yes I am a troll in that sense but only because I enjoy campaigning for good causes,
and your not owning a car is an excellent one.

I did without car for five years... and then somebody broke my leg for me, so for now i am back with car.

It cost £150 whereas the handcrank inside it cost £1800.

I hope you approve of the priorities.

I spend about £8 per week on petrol

[TJ]

I'm not a "troll", I haven't even got long hair, or a beard.
I am quite happy to speak my mind , but the credit for stirring things up must surely go to Bikepacker, I bet the board have never had so much feather ruffling!

[gar]

I have got photographic evidence of TJ as a troll and thoroughly misbehaving himself, and chasing women as usual.

www.garethhowell.net/Cernegiant.jpg

[TJ]

It's a lie! None of the cases ever came to court...........well O.K............1 or 2 of them did.........but I was acquitted!

[gar]

I was wondering when u would see that!
I have got some good ones from lord of the rings
which would have been less up front and personal.
Sorry!

TeeHeeHee

[Andy Tallis]

No one, nowhere will ever convince me that we should be banned from certain roads, or forced to wear helmets (though I always do.)

Nor will I use a cycle track unless the roads are clogged up or there is no alternative (e.g. old Seer Bridge).

Cyclist need to get around. I ride from work into town on a road that can be a good 15cars/min no probs (except for the bit with a cycle track where I get hhoted for not using it.)