B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

But the latest outrage are the tourists on Borris Bikes. They don't
give a damn. They haven't a clue how to ride a bike properly, and
frequently ride the wrong way down a one way road if they are not also
on the pavement. Almost everyday I start to cross a one-way street
only to nearly collide with a Borris Bike being ridden the wrong way
along it - the direction from which I DO NOT expect anything to be
coming.

Just recently there have been two unfortunate deaths of cyclists in
London (there are probably many more every month), but it is very hard
to have any sympathy for them when it seems that the majority of
cyclists haven't any concern about mowing pedestrians down, going the
wrong way along one-way streets, cycling on pavements, cycling without
lights and wearing dark clothes (how stupid is that), and telling me
to "fcuk off" for being in their way.

SB..

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Nov 19, 7:33*pm, SB wrote:

Just recently there have been two unfortunate deaths of cyclists in
London (there are probably many more every month),

Not really - there is about 1 cyclist killed every three days in the
entire country.


but it is very hard
to have any sympathy for them when it seems that the majority of
cyclists haven't any concern about mowing pedestrians down, going the
wrong way along one-way streets, cycling on pavements, cycling without
lights and wearing dark clothes (how stupid is that), and telling me
to "fcuk off" for being in their way.

SB

It must be a London thing. Everyone is in a rush and sod everyone
else. This includes red faced cabbies shouting at pedestrians for
being in their way, pedestrians on smart phones walking into the road
without looking and punch ups over parking places. The selfish people
you see on bikes would be just as selfish if they were in cars or on
motorbikes, but unlike drivers, cyclists on average kill zero people
year after year.

--
Simon Mason

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

SB wrote:
Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

But the latest outrage are the tourists on Borris Bikes. They don't
give a damn. They haven't a clue how to ride a bike properly, and
frequently ride the wrong way down a one way road if they are not also
on the pavement. Almost everyday I start to cross a one-way street
only to nearly collide with a Borris Bike being ridden the wrong way
along it - the direction from which I DO NOT expect anything to be
coming.

Just recently there have been two unfortunate deaths of cyclists in
London (there are probably many more every month), but it is very hard
to have any sympathy for them when it seems that the majority of
cyclists haven't any concern about mowing pedestrians down, going the
wrong way along one-way streets, cycling on pavements, cycling without
lights and wearing dark clothes (how stupid is that), and telling me
to "fcuk off" for being in their way.

SB..

They maim, disable and kill people on a regular basis, but it is nothing to
do with them, ever. It is all down to whoever they hit, never the cyclist.
On the tiny number of occasions they are caught the fines are derisory even
for deliberate running down of pedestrians, they don't even get a momentary
ban. Campaign to your MP to get them registered, trained, licenced,
insured, use legal machines and face prosecution and even banning for
breaking the laws. All wheeled road users should face the same laws and
penalties.

If they were registered then the camera systems could catch transgressors
and pedestrians could report them.

Now you understand why cyclists are the most loathed minority group in London.

I gave up cycling when I was thirteen. If I were a cyclist in London, I would as much as possible avoid main roads and try to confine myself to quiet side streets, footpaths, graveyards, canal paths etc. In no circumstances would I try cycling around major roundabouts on Red Routes because that is so obviously suicidal. If I were on a main road and came to a roundabout, I would dismount and negotiate the roundabout as a pedestrian.

There is no justification for the bad manners and aggression you and innumerable other people have encountered. Fashion following politicians are partly to blame for the quite fantastic self-righteousness of many cyclists. I've yet to hear any politician tell the plain unvarnished truth about cyclists in London.

His point bears repetition. It is valid, relevant and important.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 19/11/2011 21:55, Mrcheerful wrote:
SB wrote:
Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

But the latest outrage are the tourists on Borris Bikes. They don't
give a damn. They haven't a clue how to ride a bike properly, and
frequently ride the wrong way down a one way road if they are not also
on the pavement. Almost everyday I start to cross a one-way street
only to nearly collide with a Borris Bike being ridden the wrong way
along it - the direction from which I DO NOT expect anything to be
coming.

Just recently there have been two unfortunate deaths of cyclists in
London (there are probably many more every month), but it is very hard
to have any sympathy for them when it seems that the majority of
cyclists haven't any concern about mowing pedestrians down, going the
wrong way along one-way streets, cycling on pavements, cycling without
lights and wearing dark clothes (how stupid is that), and telling me
to "fcuk off" for being in their way.

SB..

They maim, disable and kill people on a regular basis, but it is nothing to
do with them, ever. It is all down to whoever they hit, never the cyclist.
On the tiny number of occasions they are caught the fines are derisory even
for deliberate running down of pedestrians, they don't even get a momentary
ban. Campaign to your MP to get them registered, trained, licenced,
insured, use legal machines and face prosecution and even banning for
breaking the laws. All wheeled road users should face the same laws and
penalties.

If they were registered then the camera systems could catch transgressors
and pedestrians could report them.


APPLAUSE


--
Dave - Cyclists VOR. "Many people barely recognise the bicycle as a
legitimate mode of transport; it is either a toy for children or a
vehicle fit only for the poor and/or strange," Dave Horton - Lancaster
University

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights and
fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of the road
(and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who give us all a
bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the cranium
makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 12:25:48 -0000, "Jack Taylor"
wrote:

"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights and
fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of the road
(and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who give us all a
bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the cranium
makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Guy
--
Guy Chapman, http://www.chapmancentral.co.uk
The usenet price promise: all opinions are guaranteed
to be worth at least what you paid for them.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally. I do hope the
Lycra is not restricting the blood supply.

But I do agree it is an action best taken by people with little or
nothing to lose. I have, for example, a little list of crossings I
intend to visit with my stout walking stick if I ever have the "best put
your affairs in order a.s.a.p." talk with the doctor.

--
Robin
reply to address is (meant to be) valid

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

In article , (Jack
Taylor) wrote:

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights
and fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of
the road (and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who
give us all a bad name.

I agree with that but I wonder why we get all this ire against cyclists when
it is the much larger number of moron motor vehicle drivers who kill
thousands of people every year.

--
Colin Rosenstiel

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

I agree with that but I wonder why we get all this ire against
cyclists when it is the much larger number of moron motor vehicle
drivers who kill thousands of people every year.

Perhaps it is that (i) in London at least a much higher proportion of
cyclists act unlawfully and without consideration for others -
especially pedestrians who seem to be seen as a soft target (sic) and
(ii) there is next to no enforcement of the law and penalties for
cyclists - indeed, it is almost impossible to take action against a
cyclist who fails to stop after smashing one's shopping, ripping
trousers, etc etc.

Look at it another way. I cannot recall when I last had to take
avoiding action because of a car going through a red light or driving
the wrong way on a one-way road. It is pretty much a weekly event with
cyclists.
--
Robin
reply to address is (meant to be) valid

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:27:45 -0000, "Robin" wrote:

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally.

That was very much the point I was making. It is the moral equivalent
of using a baseball bat on shoplifters. It might be superficially
satisfying but it is disproportionate and illegal.

Guy
--
Guy Chapman, http://www.chapmancentral.co.uk
The usenet price promise: all opinions are guaranteed
to be worth at least what you paid for them.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:27:45 -0000, "Robin" wrote:

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best
not to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally.

That was very much the point I was making. It is the moral equivalent
of using a baseball bat on shoplifters. It might be superficially
satisfying but it is disproportionate and illegal.

Guy

the cyclist won't lose, their own household insurance will cover any losses
they suffer.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

That was very much the point I was making. It is the moral equivalent
of using a baseball bat on shoplifters. It might be superficially
satisfying but it is disproportionate and illegal.

You are not allowing for the possibilty that a walking stick might be
inserted in the spokes by accident. I would hope a jury might bear in
mind that an elderly chap crossing the road with a walking stick cannot
be expected to ensure it does not go through the wheel of a cyclist
ignoring the pedestrian crossing, red lights, one-way road etc. And
given the averaae age of jurors these days I would also hope that some
would understand the difficulties.

They might also share the view that a cyclist riding at speed through
red lights at a pedestrian is morally more akin to an armed robber than
a shoplifter.

--
Robin
reply to address is (meant to be) valid

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 12:55, Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 12:25:48 -0000, "Jack
wrote:

"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights and
fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of the road
(and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who give us all a
bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the cranium
makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Guy

And of course the cyclist who assaults you while riding through a
pedestrian crossing in the green man phase will also have insurance.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 12:55, Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 12:25:48 -0000, "Jack
wrote:

"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights and
fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of the road
(and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who give us all a
bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the cranium
makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Do you want pedestrians to be able and prepared to defend themselves, or not?

Or must they simply be resigned to the fact that the aggressors will always
get away with it?

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 13:37, Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:27:45 -0000, wrote:

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally.

That was very much the point I was making. It is the moral equivalent
of using a baseball bat on shoplifters. It might be superficially
satisfying but it is disproportionate and illegal.

What would be "proportionate"?

Other than letting them continue to get away with it.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

JNugent wrote:
On 20/11/2011 12:55, Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 12:25:48 -0000, "Jack
wrote:

"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of
London doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I
live here; most of the others are tourists. However London is very
bad this year - there are too many cyclists without lights, riding
on the pavements, and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen
cyclist having been brought up with National Cycling Proficiency
at school, and at least reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen
cyclist - but now no more. And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the
selfishness of modern
cyclists. This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5
times by cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights -
when they have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out
after they just miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk
off!" Nice, This reduces my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries
lights and fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other
users of the road (and pavements) I share your irritation with the
morons who give us all a bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the
road simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as
the cranium makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Do you want pedestrians to be able and prepared to defend themselves,
or not?
Or must they simply be resigned to the fact that the aggressors will
always get away with it?

and who is the vulnerable victim here?

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Nov 20, 1:27*pm, "Robin" wrote:
You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally. *I do hope the
Lycra is not restricting the blood supply.

But I do agree it is an action best taken by people with little or
nothing to lose. *I have, for example, a little list of crossings I
intend to visit with my stout walking stick if I ever have the "best put
your affairs in order a.s.a.p." talk with the doctor.

I would go on a series of luxury holidays if I had such news, not go
around assaulting other people.
Still, it would be your own time you would be wasting.

--
Simon Mason

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 12:25, Jack Taylor wrote:
"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights
and fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of the
road (and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who give us
all a bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the
cranium makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

Its not physically possible for a bicyclist to land on his/her head.
The human body is specifically designed to prevent this.

--
Dave - Cyclists VOR. "Many people barely recognise the bicycle as a
legitimate mode of transport; it is either a toy for children or a
vehicle fit only for the poor and/or strange," Dave Horton - Lancaster
University

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

In article , (Robin) wrote:

I agree with that but I wonder why we get all this ire against
cyclists when it is the much larger number of moron motor vehicle
drivers who kill thousands of people every year.

Perhaps it is that (i) in London at least a much higher proportion of
cyclists act unlawfully and without consideration for others -
especially pedestrians who seem to be seen as a soft target (sic) and
(ii) there is next to no enforcement of the law and penalties for
cyclists - indeed, it is almost impossible to take action against a
cyclist who fails to stop after smashing one's shopping, ripping
trousers, etc etc.

That is in my observation a very jaded and exaggerated view. I don't cycle
in london now as much as I did until March but I still see a good deal of it
and most cyclists do obey the law whatever you might think.

Look at it another way. I cannot recall when I last had to take
avoiding action because of a car going through a red light or driving
the wrong way on a one-way road. It is pretty much a weekly event
with cyclists.

Lucky you! It happens to me regularly.

--
Colin Rosenstiel

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:37:41 +0000, "Just zis Guy, you know?"
wrote:

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:27:45 -0000, "Robin" wrote:

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally.

That was very much the point I was making.


Now then Porky : of course you were. It is amazing the amount of "incorrect"
legal advice you have to post - to "make a point" :-)

I suppose if the point you are trying to make, is that you are a ****wit, then
the posts are on the right lines.


--

Total number of posts to URC from
IP Address:80.254.146.36 over 6 years = 7

Guy Chapman : 5
Lou Knee: 2

Coincidence?
(Guy Chapman Dell Magnet)

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:40:10 -0000, "Mrcheerful" wrote:

Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:27:45 -0000, "Robin" wrote:

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best
not to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally.

That was very much the point I was making. It is the moral equivalent
of using a baseball bat on shoplifters. It might be superficially
satisfying but it is disproportionate and illegal.

Guy

the cyclist won't lose, their own household insurance will cover any losses
they suffer.



Indeed - I understand that it is usually the fridge freezer insurance that
comes in to play if you are a cyclist, for some obscure historical reason.

Well - that is what we have effectively been told.

--

Total number of posts to URC from
IP Address:80.254.146.36 over 6 years = 7

Guy Chapman : 5
Lou Knee: 2

Coincidence?
(Guy Chapman Dell Magnet)

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 15:17, Dave - Cyclists VOR wrote:
On 20/11/2011 12:25, Jack Taylor wrote:
"SB" wrote in message
...

Today is Saturday and I have have been walking the streets of London
doing Xmas shopping along with thousands of others. But I live here;
most of the others are tourists. However London is very bad this year
- there are too many cyclists without lights, riding on the pavements,
and jumping the red lights. I used to be a keen cyclist having been
brought up with National Cycling Proficiency at school, and at least
reading the Highway Code. I WAS a keen cyclist - but now no more.

And now-a-days I am gob-smacked at the selfishness of modern cyclists.
This afternoon alone I have nearly been knocked over 5 times by
cyclists without lights jumping the red traffic lights - when they
have been green for me as a pedestrian. If I shout out after they just
miss knocking me over all I get told is "fcuk off!" Nice, This reduces
my sympathy for cyclists to zero.

As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights
and fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of the
road (and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who give us
all a bad name.

May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the
cranium makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

Its not physically possible for a bicyclist to land on his/her head. The
human body is specifically designed to prevent this.

And on the ninth day, God said: "Let Adam not be capable of landing on his
head when falling, for fear that one of his descendants might do sowhen they
have invented the bicycle and tarmac".

And lo! It was done. And God saw that it was good.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:44:35 -0000, "Robin" wrote:

That was very much the point I was making. It is the moral equivalent
of using a baseball bat on shoplifters. It might be superficially
satisfying but it is disproportionate and illegal.

You are not allowing for the possibilty that a walking stick might be
inserted in the spokes by accident. I would hope a jury might bear in
mind that an elderly chap crossing the road with a walking stick cannot
be expected to ensure it does not go through the wheel of a cyclist
ignoring the pedestrian crossing, red lights, one-way road etc. And
given the averaae age of jurors these days I would also hope that some
would understand the difficulties.

They might also share the view that a cyclist riding at speed through
red lights at a pedestrian is morally more akin to an armed robber than
a shoplifter.


Spot on.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 06:41:19 -0800 (PST), Simon Mason
wrote:

On Nov 20, 1:27*pm, "Robin" wrote:
You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

Most people would know that (as a matter of public policy) you cannot
insure against a criminal act carried out intentionally. *I do hope the
Lycra is not restricting the blood supply.

But I do agree it is an action best taken by people with little or
nothing to lose. *I have, for example, a little list of crossings I
intend to visit with my stout walking stick if I ever have the "best put
your affairs in order a.s.a.p." talk with the doctor.

I would go on a series of luxury holidays if I had such news


Leaving your wide and daughters heavily in debt? That is not very considerate
of you; but I accept par for the course.

--
Simple Simon Mason - who cycles at 25mph in 20mph limits just because the limits do not apply to cyclists.
This includes exceeding the speed limit past three schools. A total disregard for the well-being of vulnerable road users.
The actions of a true psycholist.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:49:35 +0000, Tony Dragon
wrote:


May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the cranium
makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

And of course the cyclist who assaults you while riding through a
pedestrian crossing in the green man phase will also have insurance.

That comment makes no sense at all. Why would a cyclist assault me
while he was riding through a pelican crossing, albeit illegally? And
in any case, as discussed ad nauseam, actually it's quite likely he
will have insurance even if he does not know it.

Guy
--
Guy Chapman, http://www.chapmancentral.co.uk
The usenet price promise: all opinions are guaranteed
to be worth at least what you paid for them.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

In message , at 16:58:00 on
Sun, 20 Nov 2011, "Just zis Guy, you know?"
remarked:
Why would a cyclist assault me while he was riding through a pelican
crossing, albeit illegally?

If you are asking "why": probably because he doesn't care. If you are
asking "how": by colliding with you.
--
Roland Perry

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:02:27 +0000, Roland Perry
wrote:

In message , at 16:58:00 on
Sun, 20 Nov 2011, "Just zis Guy, you know?"
remarked:
Why would a cyclist assault me while he was riding through a pelican
crossing, albeit illegally?

If you are asking "why": probably because he doesn't care. If you are
asking "how": by colliding with you.

If this unlikely event ever happens I will bear it in mind.

Guy
--
Guy Chapman, http://www.chapmancentral.co.uk
The usenet price promise: all opinions are guaranteed
to be worth at least what you paid for them.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 16:08:17 +0000, Judith wrote:




Now then Porky :

The reproductive system is complex; leeches are hermaphroditic and cross-
fertilizing.



--


snip



--
An oft-repeated lie is still a lie.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 16:58, Just zis Guy, you know? wrote:
On Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:49:35 +0000, Tony Dragon
wrote:


May I recommend that you carry a sturdy walking stick when out as a
pedestrian. When one of these selfish scum ignores the rules of the road
simply insert it between the spokes. It will focus the mind as the cranium
makes contact with the road surface. ;-)

You should also ensure that your insurance covers you for assault
causing actual bodily harm. If it doesn't then it's probably best not
to try this as it could be very expensive indeed.

And of course the cyclist who assaults you while riding through a
pedestrian crossing in the green man phase will also have insurance.

That comment makes no sense at all. Why would a cyclist assault me
while he was riding through a pelican crossing, albeit illegally? And
in any case, as discussed ad nauseam, actually it's quite likely he
will have insurance even if he does not know it.

Guy

Yes, we know his household insurance will cover him, the problem is that
a large percentage of households do not have insurance.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On 20/11/2011 13:35, Robin wrote:
I agree with that but I wonder why we get all this ire against
cyclists when it is the much larger number of moron motor vehicle
drivers who kill thousands of people every year.

Perhaps it is that (i) in London at least a much higher proportion of
cyclists act unlawfully and without consideration for others -
especially pedestrians who seem to be seen as a soft target (sic) and
(ii) there is next to no enforcement of the law and penalties for
cyclists - indeed, it is almost impossible to take action against a
cyclist who fails to stop after smashing one's shopping, ripping
trousers, etc etc.

Look at it another way. I cannot recall when I last had to take
avoiding action because of a car going through a red light or driving
the wrong way on a one-way road. It is pretty much a weekly event with
cyclists.

Indeed, in London the Green Man means dodge the cyclist.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

Tony Dragon wrote:

On 20/11/2011 13:35, Robin wrote:
I agree with that but I wonder why we get all this ire against
cyclists when it is the much larger number of moron motor vehicle
drivers who kill thousands of people every year.

Perhaps it is that (i) in London at least a much higher proportion of
cyclists act unlawfully and without consideration for others -
especially pedestrians who seem to be seen as a soft target (sic) and
(ii) there is next to no enforcement of the law and penalties for
cyclists - indeed, it is almost impossible to take action against a
cyclist who fails to stop after smashing one's shopping, ripping
trousers, etc etc.

Look at it another way. I cannot recall when I last had to take
avoiding action because of a car going through a red light or driving
the wrong way on a one-way road. It is pretty much a weekly event with
cyclists.

Indeed, in London the Green Man means dodge the cyclist.


Meanwhile, in Dublin, the Green Man means ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FNbSTemxqs

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 07:28:09AM -0600, wrote:
In article , (Jack
Taylor) wrote:
As a responsible cyclist, who stops at traffic lights, carries lights
and fluorescent clothing and reflectors and respects other users of
the road (and pavements) I share your irritation with the morons who
give us all a bad name.
I agree with that but I wonder why we get all this ire against cyclists when
it is the much larger number of moron motor vehicle drivers who kill
thousands of people every year.

Because moron cyclists are far harder to hold to account for their
actions. It's because of the actions of a few moron motor vehicle
drivers that drivers were required to get licences, register their
vehicles, show number plates, and carry insurance. I think it's only
reasonable that if I have to do that because of moron motor vehicle
drivers (and don't get me wrong, I think it's a good idea) then the
majority of law-abiding, safe, polite cyclists should do the same.

It won't be perfect - you'll still get a tiny minority that put cloned
plates on their bikes, and don't bother with insurance, just like some
motor vehicle drivers do - but it will be an improvement.

As for the costs - we already have a system for registering cars,
motorbikes etc so extending that to add one more type of vehicle shouldn't
be expensive; insurance won't be expensive, given that it is already
included in most household contents cover for "free"; manufacture of
registration plates is a one-off cost; I would expect a car or motorcycle
licence to also cover bicycles so there's no cost of licencing for the
vast majority of adults, and if you want a bike-only licence then we
already have a good model for that - the cycling proficiency test that
was so cheap to train for and administer that schools used to do it.

--
David Cantrell | Godless Liberal Elitist

I hate baby seals. They get asked to all the best clubs.

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

I always imagine some driver along the north circular leaning out of
his window shaking his fist and shouting bloody cyclists, then parking
at Edgware, hauling out a Boris Bike and immediately shaking his fist
and shouting Bloody Useless drivers!!

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

On Nov 22, 1:36*pm, Offramp wrote:
I always imagine some driver along the north circular leaning out of
his window shaking his fist and shouting bloody cyclists, then parking
at Edgware, hauling out a Boris Bike and immediately shaking his fist
and shouting Bloody Useless drivers!!

Don't forget the bit after he parks the car and becomes a pedestrian
at which point he will shake his fists at cyclists AND car drivers.

--
Simon Mason

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

Simon Mason wrote:
On Nov 22, 1:36*pm, Offramp wrote:
I always imagine some driver along the north circular leaning out of
his window shaking his fist and shouting bloody cyclists, then parking
at Edgware, hauling out a Boris Bike and immediately shaking his fist
and shouting Bloody Useless drivers!!

Don't forget the bit after he parks the car and becomes a pedestrian
at which point he will shake his fists at cyclists AND car drivers.


Why does all this make me think of Boltar?

B**y Borris Bikes and other Cyclists in London
 

In message
s.com of Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:43:14 in uk.transport.london, Simon Mason
writes
On Nov 22, 1:36*pm, Offramp wrote:
I always imagine some driver along the north circular leaning out of
his window shaking his fist and shouting bloody cyclists, then parking
at Edgware, hauling out a Boris Bike and immediately shaking his fist
and shouting Bloody Useless drivers!!

Don't forget the bit after he parks the car and becomes a pedestrian
at which point he will shake his fists at cyclists AND car drivers.

The Boris (sic) Bikes area is roughly equivalent to Zone 1.
cf. https://web.barclayscyclehire.tfl.gov.uk/maps

At 2209, a prospective Boris Biker might have been lucky. ;(
My cropped snapshot shows:
Bikes Empties
Fore Street Avenue 0 26
Bank of England 0 15
Queen Street, Bank 2 18
Barbican Centre 0 19
Aldersgate Street 2 12
Clerkenwell Green 0 21

Fore Street Avenue was also empty at 1850, as I walked past. ;)

http://bikes.oobrien.com/ shows the Boris Bike load balance.
I find the imbalance often makes the system unusable: during the day,
the centre is full and the outskirts empty and vice versa at night.
Hardly surprising. ;)

A Boris Bike journey is between a station with one or more bikes and a
station with one or more empty bike slots. It is bad when no bikes can
be found; it is worse when no slots can be found. ;(
I recently found a third failure mode. Empty slots in 2 station would
not accept 'my' bike. Staff collected it six hours later and the system
still shows me owing 50UKP for its failure. ;((

I shake imaginary fists at those who ignore 'no exit except in
emergency', 'keep left', 'keep right', etc. in tube stations, except
where I do it. ;)

LU seems to ignore relevant breaches of TfL's Conditions of Carriage
(CoC). cf. http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/conditions-of-
carriage-october-2011.pdf
"4.5.1 ... you must not: ... use emergency exits except in an emergency
or when instructed to do so by our staff. You may be prosecuted for
disobeying these requirements." I find nothing in CoC covering the
'shortcut' from the ticket hall to the eastbound Central Line Platform
at Tottenham Court Road.
I look forward to seeing the effect of such indiscipline, during the
Summer Olympics, from 27 July to 12 August 2012.
--
Walter Briscoe

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i like these bikes when i seen them are they electric?