kingrollo
Guru
Me to ! (Bald Also) !!!
More war against cyclists.....
- Thread starter Darius_Jedburgh
- Start date
Page may contain affiliate links. Please see terms for details.
matticus
Guru
I identify as a Proper Cyclist.
This is a too simplistic definition and doesn't match my experience.
In my 1980's club, I would say all the road racers and time trialists were working class, most recent club all the road racers and time trialists are working class, albeit with a bit more spare cash than the 1980's but I am a passionate hater of pigeon holing people into classes, working cyclists is probably a better description.
Shortandcrisp
Über Member
I really can’t be bothered to listen to all the road tax, red light hopping, insurance dodging, Lycra clad middle class b*llocks anymore when we all know this really only means get out of my way, you’re holding me up for 10 seconds.
matticus
Guru
"The majority of cyclists don't live in Yorkshire."
... is a correct statement, even though it doesn't match your experience. Is it simplistic?? :-)
+ sheer enjoyment.
Boopop
Guru
Well of course it's an over simplification, I wasn't claiming it was the definitive description
My local club is mostly middle class I think.
Even in the 80's there were fewer cars than now. I think my deduction is based on the idea that the middle class has been able to switch to driving as the roads have become more crowded with motor vehicles (and thus an increased fear of traffic violence). Those that can't afford a car don't have much choice, especially if public transport is lacking.
Boopop
Guru
I think it's important when talking about infrastucture and advocacy/campaigning work though. I doubt anyone actually cares what mix of social class is in their local cycling club particularly. People who cycle for work, taking children to school, and general errands will sometimes be doing so because they cannot afford a car and have no other option. Safer streets and drivers for sports cycling is important, sure, but not being able to go on a club ride isn't stopping them from going to work, or getting the groceries. I think it's more important for the sake of those that have to cycle to go about their daily lives.
I'm not trying to minimise the benefits of sport and socialising, just pointing out that I think direct, convenient and above all safe cycling routes benefits the poorest in society the most.
EDIT: Here's a hot take I came up with a few days ago I was quite pleased with:
""I need to educate my child but can't afford private school."
"Send them to state school!"
"I need an operation but can't afford private healthcare."
"Use the NHS!"
"I need to travel 8 miles per day, can't afford a car or taxis. There's no bus route and I don't feel safe cycling on the road."
"Sorry!"
Why isn't affordable, safe and convenient local transport considered as important as all this other stuff? Isn't it just as crucial to being a functioning member of society?""
Last edited:
Andy in Germany
Guru
- Location
- Freiburg im Breisgau
Especially as affordable, safe and convenient active travel and public transport is a lot cheaper to provide than the other two, and arguably helps efforts in healthcare and education.
I currently travel about 8 miles to work, in a rural area. About 100m of that is on a busy road, the rest is either on traffic free routes or traffic calmed residential streets.
Will have a look for it, thanks.
Fixed that for you.
