Cyclists should have to pass a test before they are allowed on the road, and not just a proficiency test in the school yard. They should have to purchase insurance before they allowed on the road. They should stay off pavements and have more consideration for pedestrians. Cycle lanes were provided at a significant cost, they should use them. If the lanes are not up to the required standard then the councils should rectify that if there is a genuine safety issue. A lot of cyclists (not all) should have more consideration for other road users. But most importantly, they should be banned from wearing Lycra, except in the privacy of their own homes. Even then, that’s debatable!.
As bicycles were on the road before cars does that mean horse riders also have to take a proficiency test as they were on the road before bicycles.
Originally (I believe) as the motor vehicle came after animal or self propelled vehicles, they were the ones who have to look out for others.
Hence the need for them to have insurance.
Just because a large number of motorists don't like cyclists, doesn't make them automatically right, or indeed have the right of way.
By the way, most cycle lanes (for whatever reason!) are also footpaths, and therefore shared with pedestrians, with small children, and dogs on leads.
In other words very dangerous places for both cyclist and pedestrian. It's safer all round for cyclists to use the road.
