Cyclists: lose the angry pills

I can't help but feel the way cyclists conduct themselves on and off the bike doesn't contribute much to their safety on the road. Cyclists often seem to have a hair trigger and totally lose the plot at even quite mild, sensible discussion or the most trivial of driving issues.

Now Remember, I'm a roadie and commuter myself. I'm well aware that studies have shown motorists are typically the wrongdoers in accidents involving cars and bikes and that cyclists aren't nearly as well protected as drivers and thus suffer ramifications of accidents far more severely.

I just though feel that launching straight into a bitter rant (be it on Facebook, or the road) and leading out with a statement like "all drivers are dickheads", totally puts the motorists offside, so they'll shut down and stop listening, thus stopping you make any decent points and perhaps changing their behaviour. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

It also adds to the idea that cyclists are illogical psychos that don't listen to reason. That's not helping. Showing we are entirely sensible and reasonable people does far more for the cause.

So keep this in mind next time you're involved in a fracas, be it on the road, on the internet or a chat at the office. No dramas taking a nice firm, clear, pro cycling position, but make sure it's not a bitter rant. That might be the popular route with mates in the cycling club, but you'll probably do some damage to how cyclists are perceived and treated.