As Arch says really. The Pony for some reason beyond me was very nervous of cyclists when we first got her (maybe one rode too close too fast or something), and she actually bolted once on the road when a bespectacled and bearded roadie came cycling towards us about 5 years ago.
I think what scares them about cycles is the speed and relative silence which a cyclist can approach them.
If approaching to overtake, then call out good morning/afternoon and then give a wide berth. If coming towards them, then move towards the kerb and slow down again. If the rider asks you to wait, then they will appreciate it greatly if you follow their direction.
Its difficult really as horses need to be conditioned to use the roads with the traffic, but its impossible to do this without actually facing them with it. They are safer out in the company of other horses as they naturally want to stick together.
I think what scares them about cycles is the speed and relative silence which a cyclist can approach them.
If approaching to overtake, then call out good morning/afternoon and then give a wide berth. If coming towards them, then move towards the kerb and slow down again. If the rider asks you to wait, then they will appreciate it greatly if you follow their direction.
Its difficult really as horses need to be conditioned to use the roads with the traffic, but its impossible to do this without actually facing them with it. They are safer out in the company of other horses as they naturally want to stick together.