Cyclists' Speed Poses Danger to Pedestrians on Canberra Paths
A Canberra local has voiced strong concerns about the safety risks posed by cyclists who ride at high speeds on shared pathways, coming perilously close to pedestrians. The issue highlights growing tensions between different users of public spaces in the Australian Capital Territory.
Close Encounters on Urban and Recreational Paths
The writer describes three recent incidents where cyclists nearly collided with walkers. In Civic, a rider treated pedestrians as obstacles on a mountain bike course, weaving through crowds on the pavement. On a Sunday morning around Lake Burley Griffin, groups of sporty cyclists in Lycra sped along narrow paths also used by numerous walkers. Measurements reveal some sections, like the footbridge over the Molonglo River, are barely two metres wide.
A third encounter occurred on the Canberra Centenary Trail near Aranda Bushland Nature Reserve, where a cyclist shouted at a pedestrian who had paused to check a map. The writer emphasises that stopping to consult directions is perfectly legal, yet some riders seem intolerant of such normal pedestrian behaviour.
Electric Bikes and a Sense of Entitlement
The complaint extends to electric bikes with large wheels, which the author compares to motorcycles operating on footpaths. While acknowledging that not all cyclists are problematic, the writer points a finger at "billy-whizzes in Lycra" – often middle-aged men who appear oblivious to walkers. There is a suggestion that some may feel a smug entitlement, believing their eco-friendly mode of transport grants them priority, though motives like fitness or fun are also noted.
Pedestrian crossings present another blind spot, with some cyclists failing to yield, creating situations where a single mistake could lead to serious injury. The writer clarifies that slow, careful cyclists, such as families or commuters, are generally not an issue, and separate infrastructure for bikes and pedestrians is praised as an ideal solution.
Government Guidelines and Practical Solutions
The ACT government's guide to walking and cycling around Lake Burley Griffin states that riders must give way to walkers on all paths. However, it also advises pedestrians to look out for cyclists and provide space, which can be impractical on narrow tracks. The recommendation for cyclists to use bells is criticised as ineffective, especially with the prevalence of earphones among walkers.
To address the conflict, the writer proposes implementing speed limits or speed bumps on popular routes like the lake circuit. Additionally, better signage directing speed enthusiasts to dedicated facilities like the Narrabundah Velodrome could help separate high-speed cycling from pedestrian areas.
This call for action underscores the need for clearer rules and infrastructure to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all path users in Canberra's shared public spaces.
