What really needs to be improved is riding standards of cyclists.I cycle and drive, and passed the Advanced Drivers test whilst still in my 20s.When I was as school, we were not allowed to cycle to school until we had documentary evidence that the cycling proficiency test had been passed. Which for an 11 year old was both fun and an achievement.But it is evident that when out on my cycle or in the car or on the bus that far too many cyclists ride in a manner that is a hazard and danger to themselves and others. Very little spacial awareness, few clear hand signals and a lack of common sense.Times have changed and the Cycling Proficiency test has become a little outmoded. Indeed a traffic policeman I know asks cyclists he stops what the signal for turning left is. In 9 years of doing this he has yet to get the correct answer.However the correct answer is now questionable.So wondering whether I was still up to cycling safely or whether I was being prejudiced in my observations of other cyclists, I took a 'Cycling in the City' course run by Camden council.It was excellent.I did not think I would learn anything I did not know already, but have to say I learned a lot. Some of which does conflict with the Highway code and also the original cycling proficiency test.But it was clear simple and practical and has made cycling in busy urban areas, less of a put off than it was.But it has also underscored my observations of how wide poor cycling standards are, from many who really should know better.If there is one thing that should be made mandatory, it is for any cyclist to take an updated proficiency test before using public roads. In the same way as most other road users are legally required to do.Then the playing field is level, Honours are even. But far more importantly, the chances of accidents could be slashed.Other road users would have the confidence that the cyclist will manouvre and signal correctly, will acknowledge each others presence on the road.
Anthony Waller ● 4344d