CoJ and PPA host safe cycling awareness ride
The event was held to encourage people to cycle more.
The Pedal Power Association (PPA) led the first Safe Cycling Awareness Ride in Joburg in partnership with the City of Joburg (CoJ), on October 6.
The ride started in the CBD and followed a 25km route filled with history through Newtown, Melville, Westcliff, Zoo Lake, and Jan Smuts Drive back to the CBD.
“The event was enjoyed by cyclists from all walks of life, illustrating how popular cycling in SA has become. The main objective of the ride was to demonstrate that cyclists have a right to share the road with other road users and that they are extremely vulnerable. We want cyclists and motorists to show mutual respect towards each other,” explained CEO of the PPA, Neil Robinson.
The PPA encouraged people to cycle short distances as a means of mobility.
“We want more people to cycle to the shops, to their neighbours or friends, to work and for kids to enjoy the fun of cycling to school. For this to happen, we need safer roads and more affordable bicycles but the conditions on our roads need to change,” Robinson said.
“It was heart-warming to see so many women and kids join us on the ride, and we are hoping that the ride has sent a positive message to the motorists on the road.”
The group of more than 200 riders were escorted by a team of vehicles from the JMPD and emergency services.
The organisation thanked all who supported the event and contributed to its success, as well as the marshals along the route who assisted the riders with direction.
Among others, clubs from Soweto, Daveyton, Centurion and Ga Rankuwa joined the ride as we rode for safer roads.
“The camaraderie amongst the cyclists was fantastic as we united to promote safe cycling on the day. We want to thank the CoJ for allowing us to partner with them during Transport Month as we witnessed a group of cyclists coming together with the common goal of establishing safer road conditions.”
“We also thank our partner, the Road Accident Fund for hosting a water point at Zoo Lake. The CoJ Safe Cycling Awareness Ride was not just a normal ride, it was a street festival and a reminder that the support of the cycling community in Joburg is strong. Yes, there are challenges but together we can make real change happen.”
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