Cyclists-take note

With warm weather now upon us, the usual summer-time activities are kicking into full gear.  One of them is cycling.  Over the past couple of weeks the local paper has  been running a series of articles about the region's suitability-or actually the lack of it-for cyclists.

Reporters have been lamenting the fact that there are few if any cycling paths or lanes along roadways and the general lack of consideration given to cyclists by people zipping along in cars.

These are definitely valid concerns but the fact is there simply isn't room along most rural roads to construct biking lanes.  It just isn't feasible.  However, there is something that can be done about careless motorists. 

But having said that I have to say there's a lot  cyclists can do to help themselves.  There have been many times when I've encountered groups of cyclists riding along, spread out all over the road and not really aware that they're supposed to be sharing the road with motorists. Cyclists need to remember that they are obligated to follow the same driving rules as motorists.  Share the road, stop at stop signs and cross walks and all the other many rules required of those driving a car also apply to cyclists.

Everyone needs to do their part so the roads are safe for walkers/runners, cyclists and drivers alike.