Cyclist safety – a shared responsibility

If you drive around the scenic far eastern suburbs in Pretoria over a weekend, you’ll notice a significant increase in cyclists on the roads.

This is due to the growth in the off-road cycling community that has taken off in that part of town.

Off-road cycling and bicycle riding clubs as a whole have exploded in Pretoria over the past few years, as many have turned to the sport as a manner of relaxation, exercise and socialising with fellow cyclists.

According to Cycling South Africa, there is a safety big concern for all cyclists when riding on public roads.

Cycling South Africa says that cyclists, as well as pedestrians, runners, motorcyclists and any other road users, come off second best when an accident with a motor vehicle, minibus, bus or truck happens.

Although you might find several bike tracks and trails in all parts of Pretoria, many seem to prefer the far eastern side of Pretoria as their ideal cycling hub.

Releabetswe Storom is a dedicated cyclist both on and off-road in Pretoria. He told Rekord that the dangers around cycling in Pretoria are real.

“My area of choice for road cycling is Pretoria east. Most cycling clubs ride in the same area and that is much better for safety and security. The fact that most clubs ride in the area means that motorists are also conscious of cyclists. Traffic volumes are low as well, depending on the time you are riding.”

He lists the three top instances for risky encounters with motorists in Pretoria:

– Speeding drivers not providing sufficient spacing when driving past cyclists.

– Drivers not giving right of way to cyclists.

– Impatient drivers.

“There is also a definite increase in cyclists in Pretoria. The sport has a lower impact on your joints when compared to running or jogging, which is why many people are migrating from running to cycling. The other reason is that you are able to cover further distances with cycling and so people enjoy the change in scenery as they ride,” he told Rekord.

Storom says that education around cycling and motorist safety as well as mutual respect for the road is key in this instance.

“The biggest challenge would be the lack of awareness and insight on the part of motorists. Some motorists view cyclists as a nuisance and would rather harass cyclists instead of sharing the road with them.

“However, cyclists also need to abide by the rules of the road.”

Storom said that Tshwane can look at different ways in improving our roads for all to be safe and enjoy.

“It would be helpful if road conditions were improved like repairing potholes, to increase the visibility of the yellow lane (emergency lane) on roads to,” he said.

“Plus it would be beneficial if the metro can add cycling lanes to our roads as well.”

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