Today's letters: Down with 'cyclopaths' — Cycling in Ottawa should be enjoyable for everyone

Wednesday, Sept. 4: A few words on how to avoid problems on your bike. You can write to us at [email protected]

Published Sep 04, 2024  •  Last updated 0 minutes ago  •  2 minute read

Speedsters spoil it for many cyclists. But don't blame the lycra! GETTY IMAGES / IMAGE SOURCE

Speeding cyclists spoil the paths

Re: Watch out for ‘cyclopathic’ rage on Ottawa bike paths, Aug. 28.

Jimm Fox has shown remarkable insight, superior intellect, uncanny perception and acute powers of observation.

A few years ago, I wrote to this editor bemoaning the difficulties presented by people training for the Tour de France on our pedestrian/cycle paths. I suggested that, upon encountering a person riding a rusty old Raleigh, a dingle of the bell would be of great value. Alas, those words were never headed.

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I heard a bell once, rung by a young gentleman of about seven.

I no longer ride my bike on the pedestrian/bike paths; it became most unpleasant and downright dangerous. I no longer walk on said paths either. As Fox is an avid cyclist, I hope he has also found his own sweet spot to enjoy the outdoors. Happy trails.

Gill Magnan, Ottawa

Co-operation could cure cycling woes

Whenever someone wants to criticize cyclists, they trot out the tired reference to lycra-wearing as a sign of evil.

No one would expect a gymnast, say, to do their sport in street clothes, so what gives? Cycling clothes are designed for comfort and high visibility and are used to promote cycling clubs and the businesses that sponsor them. They are worn by cyclists of all speeds. So let’s focus on the real issues.

Sadly, Ottawa is a busy city and many popular cycling routes have constant two-way traffic. These routes are shared by users with different objectives including fitness, time-sensitive commuting and, yes, relaxed leisure. It is possible for all users to co-exist and pursue their preferred objective with a few simple rules of the road, borrowed from our experience driving cars.

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Faster cyclists need to slow down in congested areas and be more respectful when passing slower-moving traffic. Staying to the right, travelling single-file at busy times, riding in a predictable trajectory and stepping off the paved surface when stopping all help manage congestion.

Those seeking a leisurely amble might want to avoid busy spots at rush hour.

Cyclists wearing dark street clothing in the evening with no lighting are a hazard.

Finally, far too many cyclists fail to install a rear-view mirror, which would greatly enhance their personal safety while preventing them from  being surprised by those approaching from behind.

Marcie Girouard, bike commuter and path walker, Ottawa

The other side of drug policy

Re: Shutting this Ottawa supervised drug site means people will die, Aug. 26.

Bruce Deachman says supervised drug consumption sites save lives, and of course they do, but what about the other side of the coin? These sites have the appearance of a stamp of approval for drug use. Providing free, non-judgmental consumption sites attracts the curious, especially youth, and some get into addiction and even crime.

Drugs and crime are closely linked and in large urban centres here and in the U.S., drugs and crime have increased dramatically in spite of these supervised centres. A new, more comprehensive approach is needed and Ontario should be applauded for trying to address this issue.

Rafal Pomian, Ottawa

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