Catford Gyratory vs bus route?

[gaz]

Don't pass through there often but after being stuck in the stupid bus route for flipping ages on every occasion I've started taking the gyratory when going south and every time I beat the cyclists (who I suspect went through some of the reds in the bus route).

So what do the regularly catford riders do (i know there are a few of you)

The gyratory is fine if you can keep moving with the traffic and hold the lane, probably not great if you are a bit slower.

 

[deptfordmarmoset]

It's only useful for when you're heading over Catford Bridge along the Sarf Circular (or going to LiDL, the pedestrian turn off comes before the last couple of lights.) I noticed last week that the signs still say ''buses only'' while other signs say it's ok for bikes. I suppose that keeps their options open.

 

[BentMikey]

Yeah, they changed the light sequence so it's much more of a pain than it used to be. It used to be super quick through there. I go the bus route, by that point on my commute I'm ready for a rest. The gyratory is a bit nasty TBH, seems to need quite a sprint on as there are often very impatient drivers through the back section.

 

[ianrauk]

I always use the gyratory. It's usually much quicker then the bus lanes, especially if you get the green lights all the way round. Though it's not for the faint hearted or nervous riders. You need to keep primary all the way round.

 

[gaz]

Yeah, they changed the light sequence so it's much more of a pain than it used to be. It used to be super quick through there. I go the bus route, by that point on my commute I'm ready for a rest. The gyratory is a bit nasty TBH, seems to need quite a sprint on as there are often very impatient drivers through the back section.

Ah that backs up my suspicion that it used to be different. as I never recall it being such a slog to get through there.

 

[BentMikey]

I always use the gyratory. It's usually much quicker then the bus lanes, especially if you get the green lights all the way round. Though it's not for the faint hearted or nervous riders. You need to keep primary all the way round.

It's enough to make me nervous mate! The back stretch is also just too wide to be able to control it with primary.

 

[ianrauk]

It's enough to make me nervous mate! The back stretch is also just too wide to be able to control it with primary.

I manage to.
Though I do get now and again the odd div who like's to overtake and cut back in to go left.