Letters: Traffic usually obliging to cyclists

Ian Guy was knocked off his bike by a motorist. Photo/file

I too am a cyclist (electric) (Cyclists call for more respect, Rotorua Daily Post, January 5). I travel from Springfield to Ngongotaha most days for work so am in the busiest traffic and I have found traffic very respectful and obliging.

I even had people pull alongside me and suggest a safer route to take, which I have and very much obliged.

You always have to have a heads up attitude, because you know you are always going come off second best in any situation.

For instance if you see a truck coming behind you and the gap in front is pretty tight you zip up on the footpath. It's called self preservation (common sense) and the truckie normally gives you a couple of blasts on his horn in appreciation.

GAVIN MUIR
Rotorua

Headlight helps

Ian Guy (Cyclists call for more respect, Rotorua Daily Post, January 5) is correct to highlight the conflicts between cars and cyclists.

Unfortunately it doesn't look much like changing for the better. He does cautiously admit a modicum of blame on the cyclists but most of the time they are just trying to survive.

But in the law of the jungle, the rabbits don't challenge the wolves.

The picture of Mr Guy suggests that he does not have headlight on his bike.

This accessory would double his chances of survival, especially if it is of the continuous flashing type. At least the motorist cannot claim to have not seen him.

I don' t go out the gate without one - day or night.

GRAHAM STEENSON
Whakatane

Editor's note: Ian Guy has confirmed he has a headlight on his bike which he attaches when he rides at night, which is not often.